> Bold Heart: My OC Story
>  by Buckeye49
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1: Royal Greeting
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                                                                          *****Prologue*****

From the beginning I felt perhaps my life would have SOME kind of stability, but I knew better than that as time went on; since I became a member of the Royal Guard for the Princesses of Equestria I have had a pretty stable life...and a healthy income, but the future seems....uncertain. Where should one begin? I guess I will take a stab at a starting point....I guess I could start with 1 thing...an IMPORTANT fact, I am NOT a pony.....I was a human before this time....and this sudden change happened NOT recently but 9 months ago, It is last I checked it is now April 12, 2015. My name was NOT Bold Heart, a near Navy-blue unicorn but Jesse Edwards, I am a 22 year old Caucasian/Hispanic descent boy who by strange forces plucked, then dropped into this stranger land, at 1st I WILL say it was a shock for me.....I was uncertain what would happen to me for I was in my room on a lazy Saturday afternoon, 2nd I wondered what would happen back home? What would I do while I am here? So many things went through my mind as I tried to adapt to this new world. You would probably ask, why "Bold Heart" as my name?....well back home I was a member of a website in which I chose a username BlackHat6 because of my hobby as a Civil War Reenactor and a unit in my group had tall black hats and a "6" so there you go, so when I came here noticing the unusual names here....I thinking on my toes(hooves) came up with a name....and Bold Heart was the result; what compelled me also to change my name? 

Well the answer was, by the grace of God, a suggestion from the 1st pony I encountered, the princess living in a town I came across close by, Ponyville was the town and Twilight Sparkle was her name; she suggested this after getting over the initial shock of me & my circumstances, and a round of "200 Questions", to keep my situation a secret for now before not only giving me a resting place but a residence as well. It was then also I was introduced to her friends, friends I must say DID have a spectrum of personalities; of the 5, 4 caught my attention which were Pinkie(She was the 1st for the fact she looked like she was going to have an aneurysm when she met me.....), Rarity(Out of wondering "WHAT was I wearing?" since by chance I had my clothes on me when I arrived which were my favorite Civil War T-Shirt and blue jeans; I had rings but THEY went missing as well as my shoes), then there was Rainbow Dash(she looked like she showed an interest in me...(I had to admit I liked her but only because she seemed like a fun companion to hang with)), finally Applejack(I found her to be cute). 

Upon being invited into the Twilight's castle I made myself at home, Rarity 1st insisting I lose the clothes I had on me considering they looked odd on me at the moment, with the feeling being mutual after thinking it over I ditched my old clothes....the feeling was....odd...resulting in a slightly embarrassingly awkward atmosphere due to explaining why I felt it awkward to ditch my clothes even though part of me said why I should not feel this way, but I as well as the girls quickly lost the awkward feeling of me being exposed and had my clothes simply placed aside...so I did not lose them. It was after settling that I then gave my tale(no pun intended) in which I gave my life's story from Earth, the girls and dragon named Spike asked questions and I gave answers to the best of my ability; Twilight AND Rainbow took interest when I told them of a hobby I had back home, Civil War Reenacting....I was afraid though because I was not sure how they would take the story of my home country(which I talked about as well) having a brutal civil war. Regardless things became smooth as ice after that, then came eventually the idea of somepony ELSE knowing of my existence...the heads of state themselves Princess Celestia & Luna, I was cautious at first but relented to the idea and so...my journey began.....

*****Chapter 1: Royal Greeting*****

It was a calm afternoon with the sky being clear and cheerful, Twilight, her friends and I continued to walk down the street through Ponyville to the train station but along the way recapping what I said in addition to a pleasant conversation.

"So Jesse, or 'Bold Heart' is it?" Rainbow chuckled as she flew a few feet above to the right of my head. 

"Rainbow! Be nice, I think Bold Heart is a charming name choice; I feel it suits you perfectly darling" Rarity remarked in response while walking to my left behind Twilight.

"Yeah yeah whatever, I am just teasing that's all; I still think it's pretty cool yet brutal what you do for a hobby dude" Rainbow said floating next to my head.

"I would say that it sounds pretty detailed and a interesting topic to read about, I trust there are books on this?" Twilight asked.

"Of course Twilight, something like this has plenty of books; hundreds of them...I even have a Collectors Set that has images of the photos taken at the time of the war, be warned though...some are gruesome" I responded toward her.

"Oooo!! I understand that, I am sure that the images are gory since it was a civil war after all; but I wish I could have those!!" Twilight said with enthusiasm and understanding.

"Yeah books are okay but I like action, I would like to watch it happen then read about it" Rainbow said now walking next to me.

"I would have to pass, I am sure it would be a spectacle to see...but I have a low tolerance to....blood...." Rarity said trying to be polite.

"Oh no there is not blood, this is like a giant show like on a stage in a theater but with an open field as the stage; the only blood would be if one is not careful and hurts themselves on something" I assured her.

"But you might want to bring ear plugs....HA! The hobby is a LOUD one...since we are using REAL black powder and REAL firearms & cannons; well actually modern made in some cases....the cannons though most are originals." I added. 

"Really? loud noises?" Fluttershy asked, "Cannons! I heard cannons!!" Pinkie said bouncing, "Like my Party cannon?"Pinkie asked in addition after then pulling a blue cannon out of nowhere. 

"Uh...not likely Pinkie....though they are fired by pulling a string" I said in response, with that Pinkie made the thing vanish as soon as it appeared; ~weird~ I thought. 

"Yes Fluttershy it is full of them so if too much for you I would promise you that it is mild for the viewer, it is LOUDER for the one doing the performing" I comforted her. 

"What I liked was this involves a lot of moving and heavy physical activity there" Applejack spoke up. 

"THAT is does AJ, it is not for the faint of heart and non-physical type; you and RD would get a kick out of it" I said. 

"I would imagine that would be the case" AJ replied. 

"How much do you know about exactly about this conflict?" Twilight asked.

"Enough on some things, details about certain battles; details for the sake of the sensitive I will spare for now....but I thank you all for showing interest in my passion" I replied, "That seems fair, thank you I will ask about that later then, and you are welcome; that's because you show great passion" Twilight said. 

The walk went on for the rest of the journey without a word said and soon we arrived at the train station, while Twilight was purchasing tickets I was sitting waiting....but I felt nervous, ~What was going to happen?~ I thought, ~What were the Princesses going to do.....?~ 

My train of thought was interrupted by the train but before that Rarity tapped me on my shoulder and with a look of care & concern asked, "You alright darling? You seem...'distressed'". 

"I am fine....just nervous....I partially hope they could maybe return me home, but part of me wants to stay....what do you think about that?" I asked. 

"I think you are just unnerved by the idea of meeting the Princesses that's all" Rarity said giving me a light hug, smiling I said "Thanks Rarity, I needed that...you ARE the Element of Generosity, but I think you could double as Kindness too..." 

Rarity blushed profusely as a response and asked while flicking her hoof at me, "Are you always a charmer....?" 

"When it calls for it; and when I mean it...which is ALL the time" I replied. 

"I see....well I am sure THAT kind of charm has gotten you a mare-friend as we would say has it? You do look handsome for a stallion, I am sure as your true self you would look still handsome" Rarity says with a sly expression. 

I then say in response "I thank you for the compliment but I am afraid not sadly....I am without that...my luck with that is poor actually" I said with a somber look. 

"OH.....I am sorry....well if you return home I will pray for your fortunes to improve sweetheart and that a girl looks your way" Rarity said putting her hoof on my shoulder looking at me with that soft expression again. 

"Thank you...I appreciate the gesture Rarity" I said warmly. 

"Of course darling, prayer is a powerful thing; nothing more powerful...not even magic" Rarity said confidently. 

"That sounds very familiar to what my mother says, just by chance what is your belief here?" I asked interestedly. 

"We here on Equus believe in a belief called, 'The Way'; in which we are called 'Way Seekers'" Rarity explained. 

"Really? That sounds familiar too; elaborate if you can" I asked nicely. 

The train soon pulled in in which Rarity said, "I'll explain on the way" 

"Alright, I can wait" I said as our group began to board. The train was rumbling onward toward the capital of Equestria, Canterlot; along the way Rarity continued to explain the belief known as "The Way", as she explained I found out it was the same as MY belief...Christianity, and upon further talking found out that was what it was but different for obvious reasons, where humans wore the Cross, here they wore "The Fish" or "Ichthus" as it is really called...like the early church; this was all well and good but...could this perhaps have something to do with me being here? Only time and the Princesses could tell. It was while on the way a little more about myself was discussed such as my family, their occupations, and other details about my world; I spared some details but explained others with mixed results.

"So Twilight, you think the Princesses would be understanding of me? Or also would be get me home?" I asked as I watched the passing scenery. 

"I would think so Jesse; also if unable to return you, then I think we could find a way a make yourself comfortable while you are here, maybe even get you a job to make a living here" Twilight said. 

"I would like that very much Twi...I-I mean...your highness" I said with a light bow. 

"Please, you do not need to call me that; 1st: you are not a subject of Equestria, 2nd: I am more casual than you think in which I am not overly fond of that title...except for certain occasions" Twilight replied blushing a little. 

"I like to be proper, that is why; but if you like your name more then I will call you that instead" I said with an awkward smile. 

"Thanks, I appreciate that; but like that you are so formal, that is a nice thing to be" Twilight complimented. 

"My upbringing has some part to do with that" I replied looking off to the side with a blush. 

"Nonetheless this will be great, since you are going to meet with the Princesses; though from our knowledge of them they too are informal as well, but always good to be on your guard" Rarity suggested. 

"That I will do, since they are who they are and making a good impression is important; beside...from what you say about them....plus what I know about them.....thanks to cosmic coincidence of your world existing through fantasy in my world, this is all helpful for me" I said looking a little less nervous. 

"Don't worry Jesse, you will do fine; Celestia & Luna will find this amazing above anything else" Twilight said moving over to the seat next to me. 

"That I am gaining confidence in, but still....I wonder why I was brought here...it could be for any reason" I said in thought. 

"All the reason to keep an open mind on this, there is always a purpose behind things...even little things" Fluttershy said laying on her seat while Pinkie sat there looking distracted as I think she is most of the time *chuckle* that funny mare. ~I wonder what this means....God....why am I here?....ha....I think I will learn soon....~. 

The train was now rumbling into Canterlot at 3:30PM, I have to say...1 of a few things I loved about Equestria, is that steam locomotives reigned supreme; not a single diesel in sight! *sigh* I hope it stays that way here...another thing was the trains also looked nothing like in the show more over like the trains in Britain. 

"Well here we are! Canterlot!!" Twilight said as we made our way off the train with to Twilight's chagrin ponies moving aside and bowing as she made her way through, regardless we were all on the platform and soon making our trip to the Capitol (the actual residence of the government and the Princesses themselves) and the journey was uneventful to say the least; but along the way I could not help but take in the sights of the Equine Nation's capital.

The capital was stunning I have to say....the show falls short on the grace and beauty of the city....but as much as enjoyed looking at the city, the journey was soon drawing to an end as we finally made our way into the keep, we now were standing at the stairs in the greeting area while a guard called by Twilight ran off to inform the royal sisters of our presence. The wait was not long and soon the single royal sisters came into view...O_O....oh my Lord!! Again the show fails in capturing details of this world,including the ones ruling a nation in it. Their beauty was very disarming....far more than I was prepared for; nonetheless I held firm as difficult as it was...truly this was an experience I will remember...especially since I had an unfortunate crush on the younger dark coated Princess Luna....~oh boy....this could be problematic....~ 

"Twilight! Lovely to see you here! What brings you to Canterlot?" Celestia said warmly. 

"Well Princess you see we are here because of him" Twilight said pointing at me, I could not help but tense up when Celestia and Luna's eyes fell on me. 

"Ah...and who is this handsome stallion?" Celestia said walking closer to me with Luna in tow; as the two Princesses approached I stood there and for all my worth tried to maintain my composure in the faces of these images of regal beauty. 

"Surely you do not mean me do you?" I said...'big mistake' as soon as those words left my lips the Princesses laughed.

"WELL!! Aren't you modest? SO besides being modest and handsome what is the story behind him?" Celestia asked recovering from her laughing looking at me with greater interest. 

"He is not from around here as in not from Equus, but from another planet; and we want to know if it is possible to send him home or not?" Twilight said walking over to me. 

"Not from Equus you say?" Luna asks moving to inspect me. 

"Where did he come from Twilight?" Celestia asked. 

"From a planet called 'Earth'" It was then the 2 royals looked at me with shock...I just stood there as they looked me over together, "'Earth'? Are you sure?" Celestia asked. 

"Yes Celestia as he said..." Twilight confirmed. 

"Huh....and he has an unusual Cutie Mark too....that I feel is something of merit as proof..." for the record when I removed my clothes it happened to find a mark glaring back at me...the mark I will admit I found ironically appropriate; the mark was a classic style shield, on it was 7 Red & White stripes going down the shield, and a blue covering the top decorated with 3, 5 pointed white stars; as patriotic as I am this seemed like a cosmic nod to my personality.

"Let me scan in addition to see for sure...it is not because do not believe this, I just wish to check; PLUS it might help me in knowing if he can be returned" Celestia said lowing her horn to mine. 

It took a few seconds before Celestia's head reeled back sharply and said with a shocked looked, "You are correct Twilight!" 

"He is not of our world...." Celestia said in addition. 

I soon looked up and asked, "So, what is the verdict? Can you send me home?" 

"After scanning you I have the 'verdict'...I cannot send you home; I am sorry mister..." Celestia said sadly.

"'Jesse'" I said to inform her.

"'Jesse Edwards' your Majesty" "But I for the sake of blending chose the name, 'Bold Heart'...for reasons" I said blushing slightly looking a little off side. 

"I see...*giggles* well Jesse 'Bold Heart', as I said I am sorry I could do nothing for you, if there is anything I can do for you though, do not hesitate to ask me" Celestia informed.

"I see...well then I guess back to Ponyville, since we have gotten my answer; I thank you for your assistance Your Majesty, I am unsure what I could ask of you for what can or could ask from you?" I said with a grateful expression. 

"Well....Celestia he is looking for a job and he may like if okay...The Royal Guard?" Twilight suggested. 

"Twilight, why do you think the Guard is a job option for him?" Celestia asked looking intrigued. 

"Well he may not think it matters but I would think it might be worth working off of, you see Princess he had a hobby back on Earth....a 'unique' hobby; he was a Reenactor of a war of his Nation's past...in which he portrays a soldier, with a rank of a private but a soldier, so I thought maybe a 'soldier' or Guard in this case he might find a appropriate choice...at least that would be my guess...." Twilight said. 

Celestia stood there for a moment and looked deep in thought as she stood there, after taking a moment she took a breath and finally spoke. 

"Very well Twilight, I will let him enlist in the Guard; BUT it will be a test, as is the case when enlisting....I recommend he find a normal job as a fall back, should he fail to pass the recruitment process" Celestia said like it was a proclamation. 

"I think that is fair, I shall do so upon returning to Ponyville" I said to Celestia. 

"BUT I insist you stay for the day here Jesse...excuse me, Bold Heart" Celestia invited. 

"Really? Thank you, I think I will...Canterlot looks amazing anyways, I was wanting to look around the moment of arrival" I replied. 

It was then that Luna spoke suggesting that she give me a tour of the city to which I was to be honest...surprised, ~Oh boy it just got worse....now she is giving me the grand tour!~ 

"I would be honored to be given the tour by you Princess Luna" I said lightly bowing. 

"Tis nothing Bold Heart, T'would be my pleasure with the honors being mine for you are a visitor from another world not just a visitor to Equestria and its capital" Luna beamed with I will admit an adorable smile. 

"Thank you! I am at a loss for words" ~What did I just do?!...I am getting a tour with the mare I have a crush on!!!....Oh boy.....~ 

"You are most welcome sir, come let us begin" Luna said as we then began a walk through 1st the castle. 

TO BE CONTINUED. 

> Chapter 2: Royal Tour
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

										                                                                     *****Canterlot Square***** 
It has been around 10 minutes, and the tour was in full swing as Luna & I made our way through selected parts of castle(due to the size of the place Luna knew it would take more than day a day to see all of it AND Canterlot). 1st she showed some of the many rooms a guest could stay, next she showed me the castle gardens of which upon explanation told her I was familiar with...soon I was shown the city itself and here we begin. 

"Tell me Bold Heart, are you enjoying your tour?" Luna asked sincerely. 

"Oh yes, y-yes I am" I replied politely. 

"Are you sure? You seem...'distracted'" Luna said looking concerned. 

"I assure you I am fine, just admiring the city...."~As well as you shamefully~ thought with a subtle guilty expression. 

"I see....well if you are feeling a little tired of walking we could stop at that cafe over there" Luna friendly suggested. 

It was then the 2 of us sat at the aforementioned cafe, "Creme-de-la-Creme Cafe" as it was called. We then proceeded to sit and enjoy a bite to eat and drinks, Luna paid since I was short for obvious reasons...but the kicker was even though this was kind, it was a little awkward that she would pay for anything that looked appetizing to me; it was difficult for A: the menu was delectable, B: I was unsure how much of whatever I could choose. I sat there as Luna with ease asked the waiter for the items that appealed to her, all the while scanning the menu over a few more times; as I seemed to decide on my choice the waiter turned to me and asked me for my order, I made my choice and the waiter took our menus and left us in peace as the order was being made only to first have our drinks given to us before the meal came; all the while still I was twitchy as I sat...feeling as one would feel eating out with royalty...royalty that was beautiful as well. It was during the wait for our food I felt a conversation was in order so I then began. 

"So, Princess, I must say I am humbled by your interest in giving me a pleasant time with a tour...you truly have a lovely city here" I said shifting in place a little while holding my drink in the air(for the record using my magic was difficult, luckily before coming here I was shown by Twilight how to use my horn...due to my age it did not take long to get it working, though it was surprising because I was quick to be skilled in using magic...very impressively as Twilight remarked). 

"I thank you very much, and as I said, it is my interest in you and the circumstances that has me being interested in your impression of our world and my nation & its capital city" Luna said with a warm smile taking a silent sip of her drink.

~Could she be anymore appealing?~I thought as I tried to think of what to say next. 

"Although...I see why you seem to think this is odd to you, it is not everyday a pony has a tour of the capital with a Co-ruler of Equestria as your guide*chuckles 'cutely'*" Luna says setting her glass down. 

"That is true I must say" I replied feeling warm under the "collar". 

"I feel pretty spoiled as a visitor...though after what I went through this makes sense, you are simply being kind to me so to have me be comfortable and not panic due to said experience" I calculated in addition with a chuckle. 

"Yes...*giggles* I would think you are 'spoiled' by me*laughs lightly*, though what I am doing being just 'kindness' is only 1/2 true Bold Heart" Luna said resting her head on her hooves looking at me with a more serious expression. 

"I am doing this because it is the right thing to do, PLUS....you are here for a reason, and I feel it is for a good one" Luna said keeping her focus on me. 

It was then the waiter returned placing the food on the table before leaving once more. Before we began our meal Luna floated a piece of bread to me and a glass of red wine. 

"Are you drinking age back home?" Luna asked before we started. 

"Yes, I am; what are we doing?" I replied then asked. 

"As a follower of a belief similar to ours I think this should be familiar...less you practice a different version of it." Luna said taking a piece of bread herself and a glass of red wine. 

"Oh yes I remember...my 'version' of practice has this as well, 'communion' it is called" I told her. 

"Excellent! so I suppose you are aware of its symbolism?" Luna said taking her items.

"Yes I am aware of it, I must say that it is amazing how it is known here; then again....it was not a silent event was it?" I said as I readied to partake the same time as her. 

"No, it was a loudly proclaimed event when the son of the Almighty was slain...though I would not know of this...this happened when my Grandparents were alive, so this comes as passed down knowledge...." Luna said ready to commence when I remarked. 

"It must be, for you look far too young for it to be a newly passed down eyewitness account" Luna then blushed at the remark. 

"Are you always one to flatter somepony?" Luna said blushing. 

"At times...it is a habit..." I said blushing myself. 

"Well....I-I think it is a...cute habit, never lose it" Luna said regaining her composure. 

"I will not; I think as long as I posses a warm spirit I will never lose my flattering nature" I said holding up the bread. 

"Good; now, to proceed." Luna said, holding her piece up; the 2 of us then shared a prayer after Luna started the communion 1st with stating the importance of the bread, then the wine and our meal began. 

After our little meal we continued our tour of the capital, the sight was unusual to the nobles passing by as we walked along; one such noble asked even who was I, her response was 'a unique guest, that is all you need to know'. We continued on without incident and soon 5:40PM we returned to the castle only to find Celestia and the group was not there...after Luna and I asked the guard they said that they were in a dining hall, we then made our way to find them. 

"I hope your tour was insightful" Luna said as we walked along. 

"Oh yes it was...very helpful in telling me about the city" I politely replied keeping close to Luna. 

"Good. Now I will have you know that since you will be a recruit in the Guard, you will be paired with a veteran guard as a partner; he will instruct you and guide you BUT he is your superior so treat him as such understood?" Luna said stopping me in place for a bit. 

"Yes Mam, I understand" I said standing straight. 

"*chuckle* Very good, I think you have the right attitude" Luna said as we continued walking. 

We walked along and soon we were in the dining hall mentioned by the guard, upon entering Celestia stood and spoke. 

"Ah hello, how was the tour?" she asked with genuine interest. 

"It was very nice, Luna even was kind enough to treat us at a cafe" I said looking at Luna then to Celestia. 

"Really? Well that was nice of you Luna." Celestia said warmly. 

"Thank you sister, but I think he thanked me plenty by insisting that he repay me..." Luna said chuckling a little. 

"Well if you are being so kind then I guess I will drop the issue.:D" I replied. 

"*chuckles* Well I am happy things went well; now though before you return to Ponyville I advise you set yourself up for when you begin training; Luna will you tend to this?" Celestia asked.

"Yes Tia, I will do so right now; just everypony wait here again and we shall be back ASAP" Luna said turning in place motioning me to follow with her head. We soon began back out of the room to head to where we will find the guard who will train me and be like in my Reenactment hobby, my file partner as well as my superior; the wait was not long as we by chance found the guard. 

"Oh we were I just looking for you!!" Luna said cheerfully. 

"Hello Luna! Glad you were;)..." the stallion said.

"Please be serious with this" Luna replied blushing & chuckling. 

"Well alrighty then, as you wish; what do you need Luna?" the stallion asked. 

"I have a new recruit for you" Luna said smiling.

"A new recruit? Excellent!! Well newbie I am Sgt. Cielo Rey, Luna's personal guard and her Coltfriend" he said with a touch of pride. 

"Coltfriend?" I replied with a surprised expression. TO BE CONTINUED. 

> Chapter 3: Royal Heartbreak
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Coltfriend?" I asked with a surprised expression, "Yep, I am her Coltfriend" Cielo repeated. 

"Oh that is interesting, you are a lucky Stallion." I said slowly losing my cool.

"Ha! I know!! Am I?" he remarked with a grin. 

"Well you seem to get along nicely, you 2 should be fine when he begins" Luna said smiling. 

"But darling I have some info on your recruit you need to know about" Luna said. 

"What is it?" Cielo asked looking at me. 

"He is not a pony...he is something called, a 'human'" Luna said motioning at me with her head. 

"What? Are you serious?....a what?" Cielo said looking me over. 

"A 'human' Cielo, taken from his world and dropped into our world by some force....we are uncertain what it is that brought him here" Luna explained.

"Hmm....*eyes scan me* Well....since he is a pony that is all that matters to me..." Cielo said backing away then walks toward Luna. 

"Good; I hope he does well however he should because you are who I paired him with to train" Luna said looking into his eyes. 

"Don't worry, I will see to it if he is capable or not" Cielo says moving closer to Luna. 

"Excellent; I am counting on you dearest" Luna says looking down with her eyes 1/2 open with a loving expression. 

"M-mm Yes Mam" Cielo says moving in and kisses Luna on the lips. ~Dammit....why?!.....~ 

"Do not mind me I will just turn away" I said half joking while internally livid & screaming as I looked away; it was after a quick few seconds the 2 ceased kissing with a romantically steamy but angering *smack* 

"Sorry...I did not mean to have that happen*chuckling*" Cielo said turning his head looking at me with a 1/2 embarrassed expression as he still stood facing Luna. 

"No, no not a problem at all....you are a cute couple...." I said almost through gritted teeth as I smiled.

"Well then! I will be looking forward to training you! *looks at Luna* So when is he starting?" Cielo said enthusiastically. 

"He starts after he finds a job he can fall back on should he not pass training" Luna replied. 

"Alrighty then; until next time newbie" Cielo says hugging me tightly. 

"Looking forward to it" I said straining due to the hug. 

"Excellent!" he beamed backing off and lightly hitting my shoulder. 

"See you then! *turns to Luna* I shall see you later...*the 2 kiss again before Cielo walks away*"

"Yes dear" Luna says smiling at him lovingly as Cielo walks away. 

"He seems nice....a warm guy" I said moving next to Luna. 

"Mmm...yes he is....." Luna says in a breathe-y way looking after Cielo. 

"I-I mean he is." Luna corrected blushing profusely. 

"How long have you 2 been together?" I asked wanting to ignore my jealousy. 

"Over a year" she replied still blushing brush her hair back even though she did not need to, 

"Oh....well congrats on your 'over a year long relationship'" I said subtly halfheartedly. 

"Thank you Bold Heart" Luna said warmly, "Now...since you have been introduced let us also show you to your room you will have while here before heading back to Ponyville tomorrow; then we will return to my sister and our friends" Luna suggested.

"Okay, shall we?" I said as I stuck a hoof out, "Yes, let's" Luna said leading me onward. ~DAMMIT WHY?!?~

The 2 of us went onward down the halls, all the way I was feeling at an emotional low....for I had lost the girl of my dreams....rather the mare of my dreams.....it killed me; ~Lord? Why did you have this happen? What good will come now that I lost the one I thought would be "the one"?....~ 

"You have been a little quiet for a while...what is on your mind?" Luna asked looking curious. 

~You having a coltfriend.....~ "Nothing much, just the thought of training and job hunting in Ponyville" I lied. 

"I am sure you will be fine Heart", ~Easy for you to say.....~ I thought.

"Thanks Luna...I like your confidence in me" I said hurting inside.

"You are most welcome, you have commitment & conviction...I can tell" Luna added as she then looked forward; the 2 of us went on....it seemed like a long walk but soon we reached our destination. 

"This shall be your room until tomorrow, I hope you like it" she says as she opened the door. 

*me looking inside* "It....it is nice...very nice....I think this will do..." I said looking genuinely around the room temporarily forgetting my anger & sadness. 

"Excellent! I am glad it is perfect for you" Luna beamed happily in a semi-cute manner.

We were now heading back but the thought of that room only eased my emotions but even then it did little....soon we returned to the group; Luna spoke 1st. 

"Tia! Cielo has been introduced and now things are in order, all Heart has to do is find a job in Ponyville" Luna reported. 

"Good; it is wonderful to know things are in place...now that things are set we can all now just have a 'walk and chat' as I call it*chuckles* You may have done a few things but perhaps I could trouble you with a little Q&A Bold Heart?" Celestia asked. 

"I...do not see a problem with that" I replied, anything to help me I thought. 

"Wonderful!! We shall 1st do a little walking, then some talking." Celestia says smiling warmly. 

"Lead the way your Majesty" I said respectfully; soon we moved onward and along the way things were said topics were exchanged along with little pleasantries, soon came my turn...since I said little to nothing to the Princesses upon meeting them the 1st time...I felt I could 'entertain' them with a tale or 2, soon we found a place and I started my story.

I first said a little about my life I had and a few other little details then building to my forte...my hobby. 

"I as I briefly mentioned in some for or I have a unique hobby back...but I gave small details about it...1st I mention that it was being a soldier fighting for the reuniting of my nation in a brutal civil war, next I said what I did and that would be being the guy who was most likely to die...*chuckle*and that would be the private soldier" a small laugh came from the group. 

"What I did not say much on is some of the facts & details of this conflict, particularly the gory facts on casualties, and things along those lines" I said knowing some of their constitutions would be sensitive. 

"I see...as hard as it may be, I would be curious...." Celestia said....

"Very well...you asked" I said in a warning tone. 

"1st off the final count was appalling, after April 12, 1861 - April 9, 1865, 149 years ago at between 2-4% of the current population at the time, the American Civil War was the bloodiest war my nation fought totaling at a brutal 650-850,000 killed" a large gasp came from the group, Celestia & Luna looked struck. 

"H-how many?!" Celestia asked. 

"650-850,000" I repeated, the group was dumbstruck until. 

"How come so many died?" Twilight asked looking pale. 

"1: Technology, 2: Poor decision making, 3: Outdated tactics" I listed. 

"Is that so?" Luna asked regaining her stomach. 

"1st: Technology: The weapons of war greatly improved by the start of the conflict, they were more accurate, efficient, and to sell the point, deadlier; the new weapons were although an improvement of an old tech, the weapons we use are called 'firearms', or 'guns' invented 3 centuries earlier than the conflict, this is how man would fight to this day although now our firearms are far more advanced" I stated.

"The tech they used was called a 'musket', basically a steel tube called the 'Barrel' seated in a long wood 'branch' called the 'Stock', with 2 bent pieces toward the back called the 'Trigger' & 'Hammer', the 'Hammer' is pulled back until the inner workings click, when drawn back full the 'Trigger' can now be pulled and the hammer swings forward crushing a little cap which sets off explosive powder inside the barrel, pushing out a cone tipped cylinder piece of lead called the bullet, which after dropped down the barrel & pushed down by a rod called the 'Ramrod' twists inside as it leaves due to spiral grooves cut into the barrel's 'Bore' or the inside of the barrel called 'Rifling' sending the bullet down range and.....you fill in the blank." I listed off. 

"Wow....that is a lot to take in...." Rainbow said. 

"I know but get this: Before the year 1847, most muskets were 'smooth-bore's' or muskets without rifling, which had an accuracy of 50-70 yards, Rifled Muskets had a range of 650-1250 yards!!" another gasp. 

"Well no wonder so many died!!" Celestia said surprised. 

"Funny you say that...because you did not hear the kicker, and that is that here comes the tactics: They fought while standing in rows side-by-side....OUT IN THE OPEN LIKE YOU!!" I said.

"WHAT?!?" the group asked. 

"Out in the open?!?" Luna asked. 

"Are they insane!? With weapons like those!? Why?!" Luna asked in addition. 

"The reason was the idea of new tactics has not yet come up....it took a few battles and the eventual standard issuing of Rifles before things changed...PLUS is was the outdated sense of honor...you were a coward of being unchivalristic if you were defensive in your fighting"

"How is that logical?" Celestia asked. 

"That was the times....but do you still fight if at all with large blocks of stallions? Using spears & magic?" I asked.

"That is because we are with what we have....and we cannot fight the way you would.....but I am now starting to wish we did....." Celestia finished; I continued to spill detail after detail...all the while getting mixed reactions...after going through details like battles and facts behind them I got into the point of the hobby and then a fun thing....Eerie Coincidences...

"I have things to mess with the mind in some way, how about weird and eerie coincidences?...." I said in a mysterious tone.

"That sounds easier to handle than the other things as important as they are" Celestia said. 

"I apologize for the messed up details about this...." I said with a light bow. 

"It is fine, one cannot change what was...." Luna said getting more comfortable. 

"Thank you; now weird #1: In 1863 President Lincoln was seeing a play, the man who would assassinate him...was in the cast..." stunned silence....

"Weird #2: In 1865 2 men were on a Train station platform...1 of them fell nearly getting seriously hurt/killed, the other man ran to save him which he did....who were these men?" I paused for effect and to expect a question. 

"Who were they?" Twilight asked. 

"The man who fell: Lincoln's oldest son Robert, the rescuer: Edwin Booth, brother to Robert's Father's future assassin John Booth....." *gasp from the group* 

"That is trippy!!" Rainbow said...."Oh it gets trippier" I said smirking. 

I then mentioned the weird chain of spooky coincidences between President Kennedy & Lincoln...which was they had a century difference between when elected to Congress, The Presidency, birth of their Vice-Presidents and the same last names & their assassins...things like that....which also got reactions....at the end Celestia made her remarks. 

"I must say you have a lot of information and knowledge of you country's strange side facts of its history! You know about the main facts and things linked too them, you are a very intelligent individual Bold Heart" Celestia complimented. 

*me blushes* "You are too kind...I just know what I know...and it is not as much as you think...." I said trying to be modest. 

"Nevertheless I am impressed" Celestia remarked. 

"I agree, you are pretty smart...I love history myself as you know..so it is nice to find a kindred spirit." Twilight said warmly. 

"That I appreciate...thank you....". We went on, on other things after that, soon the day went on and the sun was setting...I was feeling better but not fully, the talk about my interest made things smoother....but back in the room I was given.....the sadness was back.
I was unsure why but the anger, sadness, and disappointment had in 1 wave came back....and little I did could help make the initial pain leave.....soon I found myself glaring at a vase on a table, take out the Flowers, after I looked at them...placing them on the table I picked up the vase, glaring at a chosen wall...*smash!* the vase explodes as it hit the selected wall...

"NO!!!!!" I shouted glaring at the wall struck by the vase.....my nostrils flared and me breathing through gritted teeth and my eyes having I swear my pupal's the size of pinheads....eventually I calmed down....and after repairing the vase, refilling it, then returning the flowers I simply stared out in a stupor....soon I found myself on the balcony....staring out over the city, after staring out for a while I then without warning lightly dropped my head on the railing I after covering my face with my hooves....wept.......TO BE CONTINUED....

> Chapter 4: Royal Dinner
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After freshening up while in my room I took a little longer to collect my thoughts.....emotionally I was reeling from the crushing detail of Luna having herself a Coltfriend.....I kept conscience of the time but I almost did not care if I was late for dinner with the Princesses.....but if I was it might prove a problem, I just...stared out at nothing...letting the warm water pour over me....I was just....lost; soon I exited the shower to dry and inspect myself, after giving myself a scan over I was satisfied but also....suddenly seeing what I actually looked like, I had to say...they say I was handsome, I was a lighter than Navy Blue, but had a build like Shining Armor, my hair....mane, was the same color as the hair I had...my tail was the same color...but what I noticed was that the color of my Mane & Tail were an exaggeration of my color in which they were 2-toned, I also had my goatee and my hooves were distinguishable, as in you can see what was my hooves and what was the rest of my legs, I looked pretty good but....I was not sure whether to believe it fully...I wanted to....but since the mare I loved was matched with somepony else, the point....did not seem to matter in the slightest....after looking at myself a while more, I took a deep breathe, and made my way to the door to venture to the dining hall for dinner; I made it to the door but upon opening it I found it blocked, standing there in the way was to my horror....the very mare I was hoping I would not be seeing at this moment until dinner.....Princess Luna!

The Princess of the Night was stunning!! she was wearing a dark dress with a color scheme almost matching her body colors hugging her body tightly, she also had her mane done into a bow with parts of her mane braided to frame her face wearing ear pearls and objects in her mane capped with lipstick, eyelid shading & mascara. ~Son-of-a-~ 

"*gasp* Uh....Luna!!....You startled me....and you look beautiful this evening...." ~since when does she not??~ I said placing my hoof on my chest, ~Why are you here?!?!~ 

"I apologize Bold Heart.....I didn't mean too...*chuckle* Thank you...*blushes*" Luna said smiling. 

"It is alright Luna, it is a pleasant surprise...and you are most welcome*halfhearted chuckle* Why are you here?" I asked politely. 

"Well I thought it would nice of me to escort you to dinner, since I am assisting in your adjustment to Equus by helping in entering you into The Guard" Luna said warmly. 

"Your Majesty continues to spoil me" I said jokingly ~And kill me at the same TIME!!!~ 

"Well! I guess I should cease these actions if you are becoming a guard soon!*chuckles cutely*" Luna says in a equally joking manner. 

~PLEASE stop!!~ "Oh no please, do not.*wink*" Luna then laughs and replies after regaining her composure. 

"Easy you~; I do hath a coltfriend dost thou remember?..." Luna said giggling.  ~I know......~ 

"I am fully aware of that" I coyly reply. 

"Please Heart, you are charming me; because of this you are lying when you said that~" Luna said booping me on the nose. 

"Surely, you are most mistaken, I know you have a coltfriend and I respect that" I said in a attempt at wit and grace. ~*Insert Kevin Spacy's: "WRONG!!"~ 

"Well in that case...." Luna says pushing her face closer to mine. 

"I trust you should have little trouble escorting me to dinner?" Luna asked extending her hoof. 

"I would be honored" I said, ~Oh $#!%~; soon we were were on our way down to dinner...but then I noticed, ~Idiot!! You forgetting something?!?!~ 

"Uh...I am under dressed...." "*giggles* That's alright...I don't mind~" Luna said coyly. 

~WHAT are you doing???~ "Uh...why are you acting like this?...." I asked confused. 

"I am teasing you!!....also...*whispers in ear* 'You think I didn't know you like me?'" my eyes felt like they were going to vacate my skull. 

"WHAT?" I recoiled, as Luna laughed at me as we walked. 

"I am not clueless! I knew you liked me...*giggles* I just thought t'was too cute you trying not to show interest in me to have me ruin it by telling you I wasn't single...*chuckles* you adorable stallion..." Luna said playfully.

"Is that so?...." I asked trying not to become angered at her. 

"Yes! *chuckles* I could not bring myself to disappoint you" Luna said calming down; ~Well....YOU DID NOW!!!~ I could not bring myself to insult her within my own mind atop it all....

"Well...that was nice of you...thanks...." I said near weakly. 

"You are welcome...I hope this won't change anything Heart" Luna said compassionately, "No...it will not" ~Bullsh-HEY!!~ 

We continued to walk down the halls, all the while I was thinking was about Luna teasing me about what I thought about her, it both angered but saddened as well; it was maddening that I was escorting Luna and that Luna dismissed so casually my feelings about her.....as we walked I eventually decided to break the silence, but before I could Luna spoke 1st.

"Heart, I would like apologize...." Luna said looking guilty. 

"For what?" I asked. 

"For mocking you...and leading you onward in such a fashion...it was insensitive of me and therefore I apologize for my jesting about your feelings for me..." Luna said looking cutely but near painfully guilty as she looked away from me only to turn her turquoise jewels back at me. 

"Can you forgive me?" she asked to just make her face painful to look at. 

"*sigh*...Yes" I replied even though I was hurting myself. 

"Huzzah!! Many thanks Bold Heart!!" she said before hugging me tightly ~Aaaaaaw.....she is so damn cute....damn you Cielo....~ 

"You are most welcome Luna, your Majesty" I replied warmly; the 2 of us continued on without another word...all the while I was thinking was about Luna teasing me about what I thought about her, it both angered but saddened as well; it was maddening that I was escorting Luna and that Luna dismissed so casually my feelings about her.....soon we reached the Dining Hall where Celestia & the gang was sitting waiting patiently, also there was...

"Hey there Bold Heart!!!"....Cielo....

"Hello Cielo, a pleasant surprise to see you here...." ~not~ 

"Aw thanks, it is a privilege to see you as well." Cielo replied genuinely. 

"Hello dearest" Luna replied as well.

"Hello to you beloved" Cielo said motioning her to sit beside him; soon we took seats, with me across from Cielo.

The dinner was going smoothly with little said during the meal, as I ate I must say the meal will leave me full, but despite this my appetite was nearly ruined by Cielo & Luna; the 2 of them had me afraid of myself...~Why am I getting so worked up? Why is it I am so jealous of Cielo? What is having me so hostile toward the idea of him being her coltfriend?...This is getting out of hand...hoof rather....~ 

"So Cielo? What am I going to expect in my training?" Luna asked helping herself. 

"That you will have to find out but I will say that you will do a lot of running & exercise!!*laughs*" Cielo replied. 

"I see....well thanks for the heads up" I said politely.

"My pleasure" Cielo replied. 

"So Heart? How is the meal?" Celestia asked. 

"Superb; my regards to the chefs" I said genuinely. 

"I shall send them" Celestia giggled. 

"I have to say....should I ever get home, how good a story will dining with royalty be?" I asked. 

"I would think you would be envied heavily for it" Celestia chuckled. 

"Tell me Bold Heart, do you have a place to stay in Ponyville?" Celestia asked in addition. 

"No I do not" I answered. 

"Well then I would hope Twilight does not mind a guest" Celestia said looking at Twilight. 

"I wouldn't mind Celestia" Twilight chirped warmly. 

"Excellent, that settles that...all he has to do is find employment before he begins his training" Celestia said beaming.

"Of which I hope I can do...." I said in reply. 

"For that I give my support in saying you will do well with that" Celestia said as a response. 

"I feel more optimistic by the minute" ~If only in finding a job that is....~ I thought glumly.

"Good! That is what we want Heart" Luna said. 

"So Heart, in addition....Luna said something to me about you..." Cielo said coyly.

"Cielo~..." Luna responds warningly. 

"What? I was going to say that you told me he is a smart one..." Cielo said winking subtly.

"That he is, and his passion is a wonderful trait to posses" Luna replied giving a difficult-to-hide subtle glare. 

"True...." Cielo responds with a "What did I do?" expression.

As dinner went on it was truly a pleasant evening, but still...I was being plagued by the jealousy in my heart as Cielo & Luna chatted between each other as well as the rest of the group...I was silent throughout this....but eventually the "silence" was broken when dessert had arrived, which itself was a feast....the dessert was eye opening....truly Equestrians knew how to eat!! The desserts included White&Regular chocolate strawberries, different cakes, gelatin, even ice cream. 

"Oh my....." I said staring out over the delectable scene. 

"I see you are not used to this are you?~" Celestia asked looking amused by my surprised expression, I simply looked at her only to get a laugh from most of the table....

"What am I saying? Of course you wouldn't be used to this...you never dined with royalty before...*giggles*" Celestia quickly replied to my facial reply to her question. 

"*chuckles* Yes...but nevertheless I am near indecisive on choosing...." I said slowly calming down and adjusting to the dessert spread before me. 

"Well no rushing Heart...take your time" Cielo says taking a slice of cake. 

"I will...." I replied before choosing some white chocolate strawberries for the moment. 

As I ate my dessert I was then being hailed by Twilight who was next to me when she leaned in to talk with me, "So, you chose the white chocolate strawberries huh?" she asked.

"Yes...I liked these back home...." I stated.

"Really? Well leave some for they are a favorite of Luna's too..." Twilight mentioned.

"What?" I asked quietly. 

"Mm-hmm, those are Luna's favorite...." there was a slight pause when Twilight finished her sentence....for a moment I seemed to be lost in thought. Suddenly the strawberry about to enter my mouth looked unappetizing as I looked at it...like it was leaving a bad taste in my mouth even though I had not yet bitten into it....to act like nothing was wrong I then ate the berry in my telepathic grip before asking to be dismissed after stating I had my fill of food, the request was accepted but at first I was afraid that they would catch on that something was off....luckily the paranoia vanished and I left without incident; I soon found myself heading back to my room...but with every step it seemed like what I ate disagreed with me...soon my head was disagreeing with me....now things were bad, my head hurts and my stomach was hating me....for the moment it seemed everything was going wrong. I was back in my room, and despite this I felt no better, suddenly I felt like I ate something foul....then before I could do anything else I found myself with my face in the toilet........

TO BE CONTINUED. 
> Chapter 5: Headache and Heartache
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I could not sleep...although I had taken some drugs thoughtfully placed in a Medicine Cabinet in the bathroom it was doing very little to easy my discomfort....I was afraid now that in the morning I would be unwell and this could trap me in a situation I could not escape unless I came clean about why I was unwell I thought as I laid there tossing & turning trying to near in vain sleep peacefully; another fear was since Luna watched over dreams....my deepest fear was her discovering the feelings for her that she knew I had.......but had little knowledge of how much my love for her was, and how deep the love ran in my now damaged if not broken heart....."Bold Heart"....HA!! try "Broken Heart" or "Baby Heart".....Bold Heart was slowing losing the purpose for which I chose that name......~Oh how is God looking at me now.....or what would Luna say if she saw me like this....and/or knew how much I thought of her......either way...I am wearing a mask...that is either poorly working....or is slowly failing to cover the lie I am telling....."I am not jealous of Cielo....."....HA!!~. The night seemed to drag but eventually I was out....soon I was dreaming.

(Dream):
~weird~...I find myself walking through Canterlot, as I walked through the halls I then found myself in the garden.....just a walk through...I cautiously looked to see, if "she" was here or nearby.....my nerves were on edge...but I continued to walk through the garden. In addition I was human again...not the form I had taken on, it was interesting but somewhat expected since I AM human ergo I would be one in my dreams....things were surprisingly peaceful...I had not a care in the world, despite my rough start I was dreaming in contentedness....*eyes watching from out of sight*

(Dream End):

I awoke when my alarm went off, it was 8:30AM; before we were to leave I and the group were told that we would be treated to breakfast before we departed for Ponyville on the 11:30 train. I then made my way down to eat...though I was slightly not in any mood to eat.....but....part of me was in the mood...so my hungry side won out.....

"Hmm...wonder why Heart is taking a while?" Celestia asked while nibbling on some toast. 

"Perhaps he ate too much late night so he is slow to arise" Luna chuckled eating cereal. 

"Still....I wonder why he left so suddenly...." Celestia added. 

"Not sure.....I would think he had a lot to eat last night" Luna summarized taking then another spoon full. 

~For certainly he was dreaming peacefully....very peacefully...why the Garden?....curious also how he was human....a rather....handsome one......*blushes* Even as a human he is most attractive....what am I thinking!! Thou art not single!!....*sad sigh*...but he is.....~ 

"I don't know...I felt it was something else" Twilight answered back at Luna. 

"Like what?" Luna inquired, "Unsure....I just felt it was not eating too much...." Twilight stated.

"A puzzle that should be answered with care, and tact....but I'd rather not put him on the spot...lest it be something personal" Celestia stated. 

*door opens* "Hello everypony" I said putting on a hopefully convincing smile.

"Hello Heart, sleep well?" Celestia asked warmly. 

"Yes...I think I slept pretty well" I lied. 

"Well that is good; anything catch your liking?" Celestia asked in addition pointing at the spread. 

"Hmm....I will think on it....I am not one for eating early...it does not agree with me" I said taking a seat next to Rarity and Applejack, Twilight was in between the Princesses. 

"How so?" Luna asked. 

"Never knew...it just does not" I replied then making my choice and began eating.

The breakfast continued with light chatter and small talk, as I ate I could not help but Twilight looking at me, I decided to ignore her but from a subtle glance up she kept looking at me every-so-often, during the breakfast's conclusion I continued to notice Twilight looking at me....something was up......

"So...Heart...since you are looking for a job & all, for a edge strength-wise how 'bout workin' at Sweet Apple Acres?" AJ suggested. 

"I think I would like that...build my strength and a beginning income perhaps?" I said positively.

"Sure, why not?" AJ replied chiming. 

"Excellent! That solves the one task, now when ready we can have you arrange a starting date for your training" Celestia said beaming. 

"I would give him some time to establish himself 1st, then start training" Luna suggested. 

"Very well, then he shall build his income, then a home of his own before training so he does not live with Twilight the whole time*chuckle*" Celestia stated. 

"Until he finds a home I will not mind, like we agreed during dinner last night" Twilight said. 

"That is good but I would still not want him to impede" Celestia said.

"I know, but it will be no trouble" Twilight insisted. 

"Very well Twilight; Bold Heart will all this do?" Celestia asked. 

"I think it is fair" I replied. 

"Good! Then it is settled officially" Celestia added. With breakfast over we soon made our way to the station....with BOTH Princesses escorting the group to see them and me off, the sight was unusual but somewhat common...especially with heroes of Equestria & Equus; soon we arrived due to the station being so close by.

At the train station the Heads-of-State bid us farewell, although....it was not what I wanted to have them do upon leaving Canterlot....having Luna saying goodbye was not the thing I wanted last to see of the capital city...for obvious reasons.....the train rolled along, I still loved the trains here...despite the ill feeling of heartbreak....my "stupor" was broken by Rarity. 

"Darling? You have been quiet for a while...." she said kindly.

"I just wanted to enjoy the ride that is all" I said maintaining my demeanor calm and easy. 

"Are you sure? You seem...lost in thought dear" Rarity said looking suspicious. 

"I am sure I am fine" I said maintaining the calmness I had. 

"Heart.....come with me, please" Rarity said in firm tone. 

"*sigh* I will play along...." I said reluctantly. 

I then arose to follow Rarity to a more "private" part of the car to talk, all the while I was nervous...had she found about me being unhappy? I was sweating bullets.....~Well crap....I am having a Jedi sense on this~ 

"What is really up Bold Heart?" Rarity in a suspicious tone.

"What do you mean Rarity? I told you I am fine...." I said getting irritated, ~SCHIST!! I think she is on to me!!~ 

"Dear....you are lying, I and a mare can tell when a stallion is lying, especially when said stallion is in pain; you think we miss things...but we only miss little, and I am telling you, you are hurting....answer me Heart....." Rarity said in a interrogating tone. 

"What do you want me to say?" I asked annoyed. 

"The truth" ~Damn she is good~ "I see....well the truth is I am fine and you are getting pretty nosy Rarity" I said having enough. 

"*stammers*" ~But I'm better....~ I thought.

"Very well....have it your way...I tried to be nice to you as I have but if you are unwell later.....do not come to me for comfort....unless you apologize for your insult" Rarity said with a huff before storming off. 

"I did not insult you...I was making an observation" I defended. 

"Whatever" Rarity shot back, ~Oh boy....now Rarity is mad at me.....~ I grimaced.

After I let Rarity go ahead I followed back to where we were, ~Dodged a bullet there Edwards....~ I thought upon taking my seat Rarity huffed indignantly sticking her nose in the air. 

"What's wrong Rarity?" Twilight asked. 

"Nothing" Rarity snapped. 

"You sure?" Twilight asked raising an eyebrow. 

"YES, I am sure" Rarity emphasized. 

"Bold Heart what happened? What did you say?" Twilight said with a knowing look.

"I said she was being nosy when asking me something" I replied looking at her only. 

"What was she asking?" Twilight asked nicely.

"Asking if something was wrong only to tell her there was nothing wrong" I responded. 

"I see..." Twilight said thinking as she looked at Rarity. 

"Well Rarity if he said he was fine then he is fine" Twilight said kindly. 

"Says the mare who thought Heart was unwell during breakfast?" Rarity quipped. 

"I know that Rarity, but he was fine when he ate breakfast with us this morning, so no need to ask anymore" Twilight replied coolly. 

"Twilight....a mare knows things...and I know that Heart is troubled" Rarity protested.

"How so?" Twilight asked cocking her head. 

"He seems like he has been disappointed, like he had his heart broken while he & Luna were talking before we left Canterlot" Rarity said now looking at Twilight. 

"I think yer looking into a very personal thing there Rare" AJ spoke up. 

"Yeah Rarity ease up, if something is going on he will tell when he tells us" Rainbow stated, ~THANK you Rainbow Dash & AJ!!~ 

"I suppose....I was just being compassionate" Rarity defended. 

"I greatly appreciate the gesture Rarity" I spoke up, 

"You are welcome Heart....I apologize for getting into a argument like that...." Rarity then said calming down.

"I too apologize for snipping at you" I said genuinely. 

"Thank you" Rarity said. 

"Thank you as well Rarity" I replied. 

The train kept rolling along smoothly, the ride was nice and soon Ponyville was in view as the train whistled into the station. God I love Steam Locomotives!! The train finally made it to Ponyville and we began our departure from the train. 

"So AJ when do I start work?" 

"You can start when you are ready okay Sugar-cube?" AJ said warmly. 

"Okay AJ, I think tomorrow sounds good, what time?" 

"9:30AM sounds 'bout right" 

"I think that works, I can get a small bite then work" 

"That sounds good, unless I can if you would like provide breakfast or Lunch rather?" 

"Sure, I would love that" 

"Great!" Aj replied; we then left the train at around 1:30PM, a rather quick sprint from Canterlot not bad....I am happy to be back, but....I could not help but look back toward the Equestrian capital. Soon I was walking back to Twilight's castle...lunch was going to soon come up so we did small things before then we left to have lunch, 

*The Hayburger* 

"Mmm...good stuff here" I said mouth partially full. 

"I know right? I always loved the food here." Twilight said also partially full mouthed. 

"Eh....shouldn't you show some manners Twilight?" Rarity said looking a little appalled. 

"Oops....*nervous chuckle & blushing* Sorry Rarity..." Twilight says wiping her mouth with a napkin. 

"So...what are you doing for today Heart?" Rainbow asked. 

"Not sure....tour the town more maybe" I answered eating some Hay-Fries. 

"I would think that is a wonderful idea!" Rarity chimed. 

"Yeah sure! I can go with that" RD said taking a bite of her food. 

"Could we perhaps choose the Spa for a start?" Fluttershy uttered. 

"Of Course!! The Spa! A great start of our Ponyville tour!! Excellent suggestion Fluttershy!" Rarity beamed, causing Fluttershy to blush as a result. 

"Hmm....I think that could be something...never been to a Spa before..." I said thinking about the idea.

"Really?!" Rarity spoke up again looking like she would have a stroke. 

"Don't you have Spa's where your from?" 

"I bet there was somewhere near my home but I just never went to one" I answered looking a little surprised by Rarity's outburst. 

"Well! I shall make sure that your first time makes the best impression" Rarity said.

"Eh....I am not one for the Spa....I will wait outside during that" RD said looking disinterested. 

"I think I will do the same...y'all do that while RD and I wait" AJ stated. 

"Oh come now girls, don't be that way...." Rarity said looking disappointed. 

"It is okay Rarity, if they wish to abstain, then let them" I said as a compromise. 

"*sigh* very well..." Rarity conceded, "So then it is settled, The Spa!" Twilight announced to the group. 

TO BE CONTINUED. 
> Chapter 6: Establishment
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The group then left "The Hayburger" and was on its way to The Ponyville Spa, ran by Lotus & Aloe Suave, I must say upon entering there was an air of ease and relaxation just walking in the door, Rarity spoke 1st. 

"Hello there, I have a friend who is coming to a Spa for the first time, so what do you recommend?" She asked pointing at me. 

"I think I know what will work for him" Aloe said stepping out toward us. 

"Lotus!! We have a first time Spa customer!!" Aloe called.

"Coming Aloe! A first time Spa comer you say?" Lotus asked cheerfully.

"Yes sister a first timer" Aloe said looking pleased, 

"That is perfict! This should be gude" Lotus said pulling on me. 

"Right dis vay Mr...?" Lotus asked. 

"Bold Heart mam" I said to Lotus. 

"Very vell Bold Heart, we will start wit a message first" Lotus stated. 

"I think I will enjoy that" I said smiling. 

"Alright, lay here" Lotus said, I soon laid up on the bed and before I could move or speak my back became assaulted by the best sensation I have ever felt as Lotus worked her "magic" on my back, relieving tension I did not even know I had. 

"~moan~......What....is this??....." I said my mind at ease. 

"*giggles* A message, but I am probably 1/2 answering your qvestion am I?" she said working out kinks and stiffness. 

"M-may-be....." I said as she place pressure in just the right spots. 

"*laughs* You are cute!!" she exclaims giggling, "Tell me Heart, are you single?" I about nearly choked. 

"Uh....yes?...." I said unsure what I would get as a result. 

"Ooo!! Really??" Lotus asked now from what I felt taking liberty in getting creative in her message, ~Oh schist!!....~ I thought.

"Uh...what are you doing?" I said feeling nervous. 

"Notzing~" she clearly lied, okay I was getting a little frightened...

"Uh-huh...sure you-u....are~........." I tried to remark before she touched a place that again had me unable to think straight; I have a feeling am finding my match....an unwanted one.

I could do little....somehow she had me under a spell, the more she worked the less resistance I wanted to show as a result; ~This is getting out of hoof!~

"Uh...Lotus is it?" I asked honestly. 

"Yes?" she asked with a hint of attraction. 

"With all due respect but...you are making me a little uncomfortable..." I said.

"Am I? I am sorry what is wrong?" she asked sounding nervous. 

"Uh you sound like you were flirting and taking liberties while messaging" I answered honestly. 

"oh......s-sorry...I did not mean too" she said sounding embarrassed mixed with sadness. 

"I guess I let myself get avay from me....forgive me....it's just....I recently broke up wit my coltfriend and it was okay but......I loved him...." Lotus said looking saddened. 

I now felt bad...this poor sweetheart lost one she loved because things did not work....~damn....what to do?~

"Oh....I am sorry for that....truly I am" I said showing sympathy. 

"*sniffle* Thank you..." Lotus said sounding miserable, 

"Oh-oh-oh, Lotus..." I said sitting up suddenly to look at her, 

"Please...easy there..." I said moving in for an unexpected on her part hug. 

"Do not cry Lotus...please...." I said comforting her, 

"*sniffle* Please you shoodn't...." she protested as I tightened on her.

I insist" I said soothing her, "Trust me I understand you" ~more than you know~ 

"Really?" she asked, 

"Of course....but if my reason is poor then sorry if I offended you...." I said.

"No-no...you can tell me" Lotus said encouraging.

"really?" I asked.

"Yes, you can" Lotus said.

"Okay but, between you and me...only me..." I said to her looking around for potential eavesdroppers. 

"Of course...I promise..." she said looking honest; I then whispered in her ear. 

"I was in love with Luna..." I confessed.

"REALLY?!" Lotus said surprised.

"Ssssh!!" I said quickly. 

"Oops!...*whispers*sorry...really?" she asked more quietly.

"Yes....but...then I found out about her coltfriend and my hopes died....I hope this is okay...and not nothing to you...." I said feeling guilty,

"No it is fine...well...I am sorry too....but that was sort of expected....no offense" she said compassionately, 

"*sigh*No you are right...I was foalish......what chance did I have??" I asked feeling more dejected, 

"Well....the fact was...you have goals...you have well boldness...and a hopeful heart.....that I think is why your parents named you Bold Heart...*giggles*It suits you." she says smiling warmly.

"*snickers*You think?" I said slightly unconvinced.

"I know" she said with confidence.

"If you say so...thank you Lotus..." I said kindly.

"Thank you, for your compassion...but we are not finish here....there is more to do!!" she chirped as we then moved on to the other activities planed at the spa.

To call it "pampering" would be an understatement...I was treated like royalty!! This was by far...the best Spa I have ever been to, I would make it a thing to do when convenient; the day was perfect...after that we then went about my tour of Ponyville, it was 3PM and our tour continued to different places...including a popular location "Sugarcube Corner". 

"'Sugarcube Corner'....hmm....a sweet would be nice...." I said.

"Well darling I assure you this is a place for that!" Rarity beamed. 

"OOH! OOH!! Bold heart! Bold heart! I work here!!" Pinkie chirped bouncing around...

"I think I remember that..." I said stifling a laugh. 

"Twilight? You have been quiet..." I noticed.

"I am just here to help you guys and tag along...not much" Twilight said warmly. 

"Just asking" I replied. Soon our group ventured inside and the smells were amazing...*sigh*it is a scent one gets nostalgic over...

"Hello dearies!!" Mrs. Cake said appearing into the front of the store. 

"Hello there Mrs. Cake! How are you & the twins?" Twilight asked. 

"Oh they are swell, as am I" she replied in her adorable Minnesota accent. 

"What can do for ya'?" she asked.

"We are here giving a tour to our new friend here" Twilight said pointing to me. 

"Oh!! And who are you dear?" Mrs Cake asked.

"Bold Heart Mrs. Cake" I replied.

"Well that's nice a new face in Ponyville, decided to visit here as a tour spot?" she asked looking friendly. 

"I heard it is the best place in town for sweets" I said complimentary.

"Ooh!...*giggles*Where did you hear that from?" she said looking flattered.

"My friend Rarity here, though from the smell I probably would have guessed myself" I said in addition kindly. 

"Oh...thank you deary...I had by-the-way had made a fresh batch of cupcakes for today, care for one?" she asked blushing.

"I would love to..." I replied with a friendly smile.

"*giggles*Comin' right up!!" she said leaving for the kitchen. 

"Uh Bold Heart...I am sorry but I insist on asking..." Rarity said walking over to me.

"What is it now?" I asked sounding partially annoyed.

"Nothing about you this time...it is about Lotus..." Rarity said.

"What about her?" ~Lotus what happened???~

"Well she seemed to be different than she was when we got there, like something happened...she looked like she cried then was comforted, can you explain?" Rarity asked making sure nopony heard us.

"She shared with me a story about herself, she said she had broken up with her coltfriend and she felt bad...so I comforted her" I said.

"Aaaaw!! But wait...why did she tell you this?" Rarity asked.

"She told me this because she was flirting with me while messaging and I asked her to stop, she got embarrassed and told me why she was flirting...then she got upset about her coltfriend and things played out..." I stated.

"Oh...I see...well that was very sweet of you to comfort her...but why did you discourage her flirting?" Rarity asked perplexed.

"I just do not share interest in her...though I promised to pray for her" I said as an explanation.

"Very thoughtful...but no offense but I know you are searching too Heart..." Rarity said seriously. 

"I understand Rarity, but time will tell what whether or not the right mare comes along" I said.

"*sigh*I hope so...but Heart dear...I honestly wanted to help...that is why I asked if you were alright....you do not have to tell me...but if you do I swear I will not tell the others...but please, tell me what's up will you?" Rarity asked kindly.

"*sigh*......fine." I said feeling that perhaps it could not hurt since Rarity was going so far out of her way.

"You were right Rarity" I told her only for her to still look at me interested but replied. 

"I felt I was right...." she said looking sympathetic. 

"But how right are you? Do you know what caused me to be down?" I asked honestly, 

"That is what I do not know....." Rarity said itching for details.

"Well.....it is Luna..." 

"What do mean Lu-.....No......you....liked....." Rarity stammered looking thrown for a loop, 

"Yes.....I was in love with Luna...." I admitted hanging my head in shame.....

TO BE CONTINUED.
> Chapter 7 Establishment Pt 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Yes.....I was in love with Luna...." I admitted hanging my head in shame; Rarity was dumbfounded, she had a feeling my heart was broken but she did not know how, now it was crystal clear; Rarity took a moment but eventually she was able to find her voice, 

"That explains a bit really...why you were acting strange at dinner, why you left suddenly....and why when you were with Luna on the platform you looked like you wanted to just leave rather than continue talking with her....I am really sorry you were disappointed Bold Heart...." she said putting her hoof on me...

"Well nothing you can do-" I was speaking when interrupted.

"Here I am everypony! Sorry for the delays" Mrs Cake said barging from the kitchen...

"We'll talk later" Rarity said moving away with me in tow. 

"Hey Rarity, where were you and Bold Heart?" Twilight asked, 

"We were talking, nothing much" Rarity covered.

"She is telling the truth Twilight" I said looking to Rarity then Twilight. 

"Oh okay....just checking" 

"Thank you Twilight..." Rarity replied gratefully.

"Cupcake?" Mrs. Cake offered. 

"Oh thank you Mrs Cake" I said taking one. 

"Welcome deary..." she said moving about. 

*Mr Cake* "Hello honey-bun!" 

"Hello sugar-snap!" Mrs. Cake replied, ~Aaaaw...these 2 were always cute~ 

"You must be her husband" I said to him.

"Yes I am, who are you sir?" 

"Bold Heart here is new to Ponyville, so he is on a tour and we are one of his tour stops" Mrs Cake explained.

"Really? How wonderful-" Mr. Cake was cut off when suddenly there were 2 foals giggling & squealing with delight ~And these 2 are just as CUTE!!!~ 

"Oh...and these 2 are our foals, 'Pumpkin Cake' & 'Pound Cake'" Mr Cake said picking them up. 

"Aaaw!!~ They are so cute!!" I said extremely beside myself in "D'aw!!".

"Thank you...and it seems they like you" Mrs. Cake said smiling warmly. 

"Really?..." sudden they after being put down crawled to me giggling. 

"*chuckles*Aaaw...hey there little ones..." I said bending over...*Pumpkin grabs my muzzle* 

"Wha-?....." I was not sure why other than because, but Pumpkin was grabbing my face, it did not mind it though, it was precious that an infant likes me let alone 2...it reminds me....~*gasp* My dream!!~ back home in the human world *(1)I had a dream about 2 children....Equine children...but they were my own...they were leaving to go somewhere but I did not mind...because I knew they would return not only that but I was happy to be a father*....~this is getting interesting...~. 

"Aaaw......Pumpkin must really like you..." Twilight said beside herself in "D'aw!!" the others were feeling the same as they watched.

"Uh..hi Pumpkin...*chuckles*" I said as she then after letting go of my face, was asking to be held...soon Pound was asking to for attention as well.

"Oh you want attention too?" I said holding Pumpkin while hugging Pound with my right leg. 

"Aaaaw!!! I didn't know you were good with foals..." Rarity said adoring the moment. 

"I did not know I was..." I admitted looking surprised at the scene playing out.

"Well you look so Fatherly..." Fluttershy said blushing at the same time.

"Yeah!! You look like you would be super-duper-duper-DUPER-fun-cool dad!!" Pinkie said in her usual fashion.

"*laughing* I reckon you would be a good dad someday from how the twins are liking you so much..." AJ said sitting a few paces from me and to the right of Rarity left of Rainbow.

"I do not know...it would take more than th-..." it was then Pumpkin snuggled as she made herself comfy in the crux of my leg, and Pound was hugging the other; the whole group just let out a huge "AAAAAW!!!" as a result.

"Uh Mrs. Cake? Help?" I said looking a little surprised and "distressed".

"I think they look happy with you deary" Mrs. Cake giggled looking impressed by the display, suddenly looking at Rarity I did a double take for when looking at her she looked like she was thinking something....~What are you thinking?~ 

"Uh Rarity? What is it?" I asked looking confused.

"Oh nothing...just thinking..." she said continuing her look.

"I think the twins look tuckered out...better put them to bed..." Mr. Cake observed.

"I think I might have to do that..." I said looking at the 2 foals cuddled up with me.

"I would think that would be wise" Mrs. Cake stated; with this I then gently put Pumpkin & Pound on my back using my magic to hold them there and took the two upstairs to their room with the direction of the Cakes. 

After putting the foals to bed and during that even more adorable tenderness involving the 2 combining 2 words together with Pumpkin saying "Bold" and Pound saying "Heart" before nodding off and I headed downstairs ~D'aaaaw!!! How can this be happening?~ 

"*sigh* Well the foals are asleep" I said rejoining the group downstairs.

"Thanks to you~" Rarity chimed.

"That was the sweetest thing I ever saw...I find it beautiful you are good with foals Heart, this tells you something about you, you may not be aware of" Twilight said warmly.

"Perhaps..." I said looking embarrassed, ~She is right...this does and should tell me something about myself...~ 

"Perhaps?!" everypony said unexpectedly, "What?" I asked looking confused.

"What would it take to convince you that when we say something about you and you accept it?" Twilight asked kindly.

"Bold Heart...we tend to be right with things like this...we have learned from experience so trust us when we say you have a talent with foals" Rarity suggested.

"I guess I have confidence issues..." I admitted.

"That might be pretty obvious...." Rainbow rudely remarked, only to have AJ hit her in the side.

"OW!! AJ??" 

"Rainbow!! That is not nice..." Twilight hissed.

"It is okay, it is just Rainbow being herself" I stated.

"No is not alright Heart, Rainbow made an insensitive remark; Rainbow apologize..." Rarity ordered.

"A'ight! a'ight!....I am sorry Bold Heart...I should watch what I say...I should know better...." Rainbow apologized genuinely.

"Thank you Rainbow Dash, I accept your apology" I said honestly.

"Thanks dude" "No problem; so....I think we should be going, it is getting a little late is it?" I asked Twilight.

"I am not sure..but maybe, what time is it?" 

"It is now 4PM!!" Pinkie chirped.

"Oh my goodness we have been here an hour...Thank you Mr. & Mrs. Cake for this pleasant experience for our friend here" 

"No problem Twilight, anytime deary" Mrs. Cake chimed.

"Alright everypony, next stop: Sweet Apple Acres!" Twilight said.

"Thank you Twilight, it is best we head there since Bold Heart is being hired there." AJ beamed proudly.

We made our way to S.A.A., and it was as peaceful and beautiful a place as I imagined but....5x more!! This is a place I can work at, so quiet, calm, and pastoral. Upon entering the farm I soon met Granny Smith, Big Macintosh, and Applebloom; we stuck around as AJ showed me around her farm from the barn to her fields, and everywhere in between. We soon took a break to enjoy some Cider set aside for the Apple family to enjoy from time to time, after sitting a while we then left S.A.A. and due to the hour AJ stayed behind while the rest of us headed to Fluttershy's Cottage. Upon arrival at her cottage the group sat while I looked at the critters she had, even the Grizzly she had around and it was very interesting that was for sure but after a while soon we left and Fluttershy stayed then the rest of us left and headed to Carousel Boutique and we had some tea there, this is where we rejoin. 

"Thank you for the tea Rarity" I said taking the cup she gave.

"You are welcome Heart" she replied kindly.

"This is a lovely home you have" 

"Thank you Heart, I built the place myself....with help" Rarity stated.

"Hmm....nice." I said sipping my tea.

"How was the tour of Ponyville?" Twilight asked.

"I had fun, I was happy for this...." I replied. 

"Shame you can't walk on clouds, Cloudsdale you have to see!!" Rainbow chimed.

"Well he can, remember?" Twilight added.

"OH yeah! That spell you used when you saw me win 'The Best Flyer Competition'" Rainbow recalled.

"The very same" Twilight chirped.

"That sounds familiar" I commented.

"I am still a little creeped out by how your world knows about us....." Rainbow remarked.

"Well....many things are possible when dealing with other worlds & dimensions" I reasoned.

"True, very true" Twilight beamed jubilantly.

"*giggles*1 after Twilight's heart" Rarity commented.

"2 eggheads...oh boy..." Rainbow groaned, resulting in laughs; soon the evening began to wain...and then dinner was in order, so everypony left for home with me following Twilight for it was her place of course I will make my home until further notice.

Soon Twilight, Spike, and I were in the castle; dinner was the order so we headed to the eating area while Twilight cooked, and cook she can!!! She made quite the spread for this individual's home...an equivalent to the meal in Canterlot I must say. Our meal was perfect, simple but filling and after that we had dessert, very little was spoken and the day was drawing to its close as we then did dishes and headed to our respective room.

"*sigh*"....~I had a fun day....and now I will soon have a job...2 jobs...with 1 being the job hopeful....but what will this really do??...I am asking to be a guard....why?? I could just farm apples and be happy....why a Royal Guard?.....well....who knows what could happen....I can not turn back now....not now....~ 

I am at Sugarcube Corner.....upon entering I see the place is deserted...*cooing* well not COMPLETELY deserted, there giggling was Pumpkin & Pound Cake; the 2 approached me suddenly and before I could act the 2 began to giggle and laugh playing around and on me...."What am I a jungle Gym?" I asked the twins, their only response was laughs and joyful squeals; this continued for a while, soon the twins looked tired and I then carried them to their beds, upon placing them in the crib I took a moment and looking down, smiled warmly at the drowsy foals....little did I know....somepony ELSE was there...smiling as well........

TO BE CONTINUED.
> Chapter 8: Life in Ponyville
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The next day was nice and I slept decently, but breakfast was calling and Twilight once again demonstrated her skills in the kitchen by making an appetizing breakfast; but that was after I took time to freshen up by bathing in a shower I could use and soon I headed down stairs to enjoy the meal Twilight had prepared. The breakfast looked amazing, waffles, biscuits, and sandwiches with an Orange Juice Pitcher for serving multiple ponies...or ponies and dragon, 

"Hi Spike" I said cheerfully.

"Hey Heart! Sleep well?" Spike asked with his mouth half full.

"I did actually...where is..." I was about to ask where Twilight was when she entered.

"Hel-lo there!~" Twilight chirped walking in.

"Heloo Twilight, sleep well?" 

"I did actually" I replied kindly, "Did you?" she asked in reply, 

"Yes I did too" 

"Good! Now let's eat". Soon we were eating our meal and it was lovely meal...it hit the spot just right.

"So, when is Aj going to have you work?" Twilight asked.

"It was 9:30 she said I start...." I stated drinking my juice.

"Oh; okay then after breakfast you better walk to Applejack's ASAP" Twilight advised.

"Sounds wise, I thank you again for the Ponyville Tour." I said warmly.

"You are welcome Heart, I hope you do well when you start" 

"I hope so as well" I said looking nervous.

"I think you will do fine; you show energy & drive when you put your mind and heart to it" 

"I got that back home" I said blushing.

"Well it is true...but, that only applies if you pursue that goal you strive for...." 

"I am aware Twilight...very aware" I said seriously.

"Good, nice to know you understand" Twilight said. 

"Why would I not?" 

"I did not say that...I was just making an observation that's all" Twilight stated kindly. 

"Okay then..." 

"How was breakfast?~" Twilight asked coyly, 

"It was good..." 

"*giggles* I knew that..." Twilight said playfully.

"Then why did you ask?" 

"*giggles* Just to be coy, I know you were enjoying it, you took seconds and you were making faces...*chuckles*" Twilight said with an impish smile.

"Uh-huh..." I said looking annoyed, only to elicit a laugh from Spike & Twilight....hilarious...real hilarious Twilight....but eventually after teasing and helping with dishes, I made my way to Sweet Apple Acres and my first job. 

I walked through Ponyville, and this town is cute! Albeit more realistic but still retaining the cute appearance that was familiar enough to say this is Ponyville. I passed pony coming and going, with little "hello's" here and there; eventually I made my way to Sweet Apple Acres, right on time. 

"Heloo? Anypony here?" no reply.

"Heloo?!" I called out louder.

"Hi Bold Heart!" Applejack replied walking from around a corner.

"I am on time?" 

"Yes you are Heart but 5 minutes early" 

"Really? Wow." 

"Yep, now come with me and I will show you what I need you to do" 

"Fair enough Applejack"; I then began my work day with first moving buckets of apples bucked out of the trees picked so far.

"Thank you Heart, now want a try at buckin'?" 

"Sure!" 

"Good! But try not to hit the tree too hard, don't want'cha to hurt yerself" 

"Okay Applejack", I soon moved to a tree and coiling my hind-legs I bucked the tree and like that...

"Land-sakes! Not bad there Heart~" 

"Thank you Applejack, I was hoping I would do well." 

"I had a feelin' you would" Applejack said warmly; soon I began to buck tree after tree with ease...pretty cool how my altered form is pretty strong, for that I was pleased but probably not as much as Aj, she showed high satisfaction in my work and its efficiency. It was around Noon, and I was getting tired...not good...

"*panting* I....am....getting...tired...." 

"I think you did a lot, take 5 there Bold Heart, don't want'cha to hert somethin'"

"Thank you.....Aj....." I said before sitting, nearly collapsing.

"Let me get you something to drink" Aj said motioning me to sit while she left, within minutes AJ fetched us drinks and we took a few minutes before getting back to work. 1PM we stop again, this time to eat in which I was treated to a cooked lunch a perk I will say all good jobs like this should have for its employee's.

"M-mm! Thank you for the lunch, I was not expecting this..." 

"Well you shouldn't have...you ferget? I said I would provide a meal fer ya" 

"I must have forgot....hard work does that to my thinking..." 

"Well then it's good we stopped again...you're doin' good sugarcube" Aj said warm and kindly.

"Thank you, I am glad I am" I replied gratefully.

It half an hour later, and we were back at work...this time moving things; after more moving we were bucking again and more apples were harvested, after more bucking & moving we had hauled 36 more buckets of apples by 2:30. 

"Another haul to sell, good werk Heart!" 

"Thanks" I replied wiping sweat.

"I like you werkin' for me, you might give Big Mac a run for his money!" 

"I do not think so, your brother is a built stallion, able to haul more than me" 

"True but you are impressive according to him" 

"Really?" 

"Eeyup!" Big Mac suddenly said passing by. 

"You are a big help here, as strong as I am I cannot do everything by myself" Big Mac said warmly as he stopped for a moment. 

"Thank you, I am glad I got your approval" 

"Think nothin' of it, you earned my praise, and that is somethin' God loves as well, good hard work; you did that and then some!" 

"You are too kind..." I said blushing.

"We mean it, in fact because of your work you may leave, the work we needed to do is done and now we are ahead of schedule!" 

"Really? Wow! Thank you" 

"Thank you, you will receive yer pay by the end of the week" Aj stated.

"Thank you and have a good day then!" 

"You too Heart!~"; I had a nice day, hard work and a payment on the way, things are looking good for being in Equestria & Equus. After walking a while I was "home" at Twilight's castle.

"Hi Heart!" Twilight chimed.

"Heloo Twilight!" I replied hugging her. 

"So~...how was work?" 

"It was great, Aj was pleased with me and I got so much done I got to leave early" 

"Wonderful! You must be tired, let's sit you down" Twilight said leading me inside. 

"Thank you Twilight...some rest and dinner will be nice....." 

Twilight giggled in reply to my statement.

"What?" 

"You sound like a husband...*laughs*" me blushing was the result...

"That was not my intent..." 

"*giggles* Sure it was not~" Twilight joked. 

After a few hours of rest dinner was made and served, after today a warm meal was greatly accepted.

"Once again you out do yourself Twilight!" 

"Thanks..." Twilight said blushing, 

"So how did your day go?" 

"It was slow, not much; did little things here and there hung out with my friends" 

"Oh okay...that is good" I said sitting down slumping back. 

"Um...Heart?" 

"Yes?" 

"Um....you're exposing your....*blush*" 

"My wha-....*looks down* Ooooh....OH CRAP!" I said sitting differently while blushing profusely, definitely something of course that ironically was a factor here, that even though clothing was optional you still took care & caution with your personal areas....so...*insert self-explanation* 

"Sorry Twilight...somethings are still new to me..." I said clearly embarrassed.

"All part of learning about a new world and.....body..." Twilight reasoned still blushing slightly. 

After a while and a warm shower dinner was served sometime later.

"Dinner is great!" 

"Thank you Heart, but Spike here helped" 

"Of course! Thanks to you as well Spike" 

"Aw it was normal stuff" Spike said being humble. 

"To me it is not, being a only a 2nd time guest here for dinner" 

"Then you are welcome" Spike replied kindly. 

"Well, I have some news~..." Twilight sang.

"What?" 

"I wrote a letter to Celestia saying you had your first day of work, so now they want you in Canterlot tomorrow!~" 

"Really?" 

"Yep!~" Twilight chirped.

"What should I tell Aj?" 

"Oh I will tell her tomorrow you will be busy for a while....she will understand once she knows about where you are going" 

"Let me guess...they want me to train now since I have a back-up job?" 

"Also yes~" 

"Well...that is great, I am pleased that is happening" 

"So am I Heart, if you can do well after today, then am confident you will be great tomorrow" Twilight said confidently.

"I am loving the confidence ponies have in me...but I wonder if I will continue to be worthy of this confidence..." 

"I understand your concern...but you need to build your own confidence..." Twilight kindly advised. 

"I will try...it is just..." 

"Just what?" 

".....I will let you know when I am ready..." I replied softly.

"That is fine Bold Heart...unlike Rarity I will not press you on a personal issue..." 

"Thank you" ~Funny you mention her...~ 

"You're welcome" so now I have a job to be and a job secured, thus begins my trial by fire as I become a soldier for a country that was not my own.....only time and God's will, will tell I either succeed, or fail. 

TO BE CONTINUED.
> Chapter 9: Good Guard it is hard!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It is morning....I slept pretty well again, and soon I was having breakfast again it once more was amazing and tasty, it was good too since I now had a hard day ahead...if not today then the day after...but maybe since it is the military I will be worked today. 

"Calm down Heart, you'll do fine...." 

"Says you...." I said looking like I was about to pass out.

"Just breathe Heart...." Twilight repeated.

"You are lucky I left early to inform Applejack that you will be in Canterlot...and let you sleep in" Twilight added.

"Alright I get it...but this may be trivial to you, but not to me!" I fired back.

"I get it Heart, but worrying is not going to help you; be calm and you'll do fine, prayer helps if you need it...." 

"I have been told...." 

"Then accept it, it will do you some good...it helped me that is for sure" Twilight said.

"I guess.....very well" 

"Good!~ Now just a little further then we'll be at the train station, take the time on board to relax more before we get there; you do seem at ease on trains from what I saw" 

"That is because trains, steam trains are a passion of mine as well" I replied, 

"Oh?~ I see...tell me about on the way...it will distract you from what's bothering you" Twilight reasoned, 

"That sounds nice..." 

"Excellent!~ That's the spirit!" Twilight beamed as we crossed the next few yards to the station. At the station Twilight purchased my ticket since she was a princess she gets on free, once that was done we waited til a train arrived. 

"So...Heart? You were saying about your love of trains?"

"Oh yes, alright where should I start?" 

"Okay, from the 'beginning'" Twilight said.

"Alright; 1st off I loved trains since I was a child or foal in this case..."

Twilight giggles in response. 

"I guess it was something that never went away. 2nd: in my world Steam Locomotives are outdated" 

"Really?" Twilight asked interested.

"Yes, on my planet in my native country, they were replaced 60-50 years ago by a locomotive made to run on oil refined into a fuel called 'Diesel', burned in a engine that makes electricity that moves the Loco, this loco is called a 'Diesel-Electric' Locomotive"

"Fascinating, please continue..." Twilight eagerly encouraged warmly. 

"Yes and the upgrades came with a major improvement that is fatal the the Steam Loco's case, a Diesel takes 10 minutes to be ready from cold; do you know how long a Steam Loco takes?" 

"No, how long?" Twilight asked encouragingly.

"6 hours!!" I said.

"....Wow....well that makes perfect sense, considering the mass of water plus the heat required to heat the large amount of water and how metal reacts to being cooled then heated...it makes sense that to avoid damage, it must be heated gradually" Twilight stated. 

"Exactly! It is because if you heat up a Steam Loco too quickly, it will damage the Engine" 

"Well that spells bad news for Steam Engines if a Diesel has no need for heating water to move" 

"Yes unfortunately...bad news for them, good news for progress....and it meant death to the beloved Steam Locomotive in America." I said seriously.

"That is sad...I am sorry that, that happened in your world, but I guess times change for a reason, they always do" Twilight said sympathetically.

"But on the bright side many Steam Loco's are either exhibits or on tourist lines." I said warmly.

"Nice! That is wonderful" Twilight said.

"I know, some have even become celebrities"

"Really how does that work?" Twilight asked looking perplexed.

"Well either they accomplished a feat, or had good service so they were kept then used for tourism at the end of their carrier due to that they are 1 of few or the last of their kind, 1 Loco off my head is another's country's engine named 'The Mallard' broke the record for fastest Steam Loco at 126 MPH!!" 

"....Wow!! That is fast!! What happened to that engine?" 

"It is in a museum on a turn-table indoors that spins the engine slowly so you get a 360 view of it" 

"Ah I see, that sounds like a nice end for it" Twilight said smiling.

"There is more; some have historic value for being somewhere during an important time like 'The General', used during the Civil War made famous for being stolen by Union soldiers, 'The Jupiter' and '#119' I call 'The Roger' used during the construction of the railroad that first linked the East Coast of my country to the West Coast" 

"Uh-huh..." Twilight said continuing to show undying interest.

"But I think 1 of the 3 is original"

"Which one do you think is original?" Twilight asked.

"'The General' despite looking different from the look it actually had...if original it must have been rebuilt to look different due to age..." 

"That makes sense...age would be a good reason for an overhaul" 

"Indeed so, being built in the 1850's due to design changes made by the 1860's-1870's, a overhaul would be in order due to engines in the '70's becoming coal burners, when they all used to burn wood" 

"What does the fuel change do to the engines?" Twilight asked.

"The tolerance to heat among internal things, coal burns hotter than wood does, plus burns slower and differently" 

"Aaah...that I knew there is a difference in using coal or wood" Twilight said knowingly.

"I had a feeling you would" I said causing Twilight to blush as a result. 

"Also I wonder about something" 

"What is that Twilight?" 

"Why are engines named?" 

"That I am not sure...I would have to if I return home but can still come back, look that up" 

"Oh okay." Twilight chirped; we talked back and forth for a little more until finally the train arrived.

"Well! Now that the train is here we can be on our way" Twilight said.

"Sure Twilight...thank you again for helping in calming me down and listening to me, not many do..." I said warmly grateful.

"You're welcome Heart" Twilight said soothingly; on the train we rumbled along on to Canterlot for the beginning of my future as a Equestrian Canterlot Royal Guard.

The train was still moving on, on the way we talked a little more, 

"I love the knowledge you have Heart, your passion for things you love is a wonderfully beautiful thing to have" Twilight said warmly.

"Thank you Twilight, not many appreciate my enthusiasm and energy in the things I know or love" 

"I can see way but I guess they just don't understand...or had Pinkie as a friend.*chuckles*" 

"*laughs lightly* That I think is true, but there are times I over do things..." 

"I know Heart, but I too have over done things too" 

"I can imagine~..." I said coyly.

"Shut up!~" Twilight replied jokingly.

"But seriously I am grateful for the sympathy" 

"Of course Heart, Rainbow in a way was right, you have confidence problems so you need friends who can understand and be there for you...." 

"Twilight you and your friends are the best, my few among fewer friends I ever had" I said tearing up.

"Aaaw~ Easy Heart, it is what a good pony and a friend does" Twilight said hugging me. 

"*chuckles softly* Thank you..." I said trying to dry my eyes.

"You're welcome" Twilight said soothingly tearing up herself. We were here, Canterlot....national capital of The Royal Dominion of Equestria; I was back to scared...but Twilight soothed me and my courage was partially regained.

"You'll do fine just breathe, and don't worry training lasts more than a day Heart...though that should be obvious" 

"I know that but it is just the thought of what Day 1 will bring" 

"I know Heart, a lot can happen in the first day but I feel it should be fine" Twilight reasoned.

"I will see" ~And see if I do not crack under the pressure...as well as get jealous of Cielo again...~ 

"That's the attitude~"; we then walked to the Castle Keep where we were told to meet the Princesses then Cielo for the 1 of many important things of my life. We entered the inside and again a guard was called to find Celestia & Luna, like my first visit the wait was short and again the Princesses were eye candy....sinfully delectable eye-candy...~Oh crap not again....~ 

"Twilight! Bold Heart! You're here! Excellent!" Celestia beamed.

"Yep! And Bold Heart here is anxious to start training" 

"Really?~ Well then let's not delay then" Luna spoke up.

"Come with me Bold Heart and Cielo will see to you" Luna added motioning with her head to follow her.

"As you wish" I replied quickly.

"Cielo will meet us in the drilling grounds which are to the Right Rear Quadrant of the castle" 

"Understood" I replied seriously; we walked a great distance before suddenly Luna spoke up.

"Are you nervous Bold Heart?" Luna asked compassionately.

"A little...." I replied almost squeaking my response.

"It is natural to be nervous, you needn't worry Heart" 

"Twilight has told me that..." 

"Then thou should listen to her" Luna chimed smoothly.

"I was told by her to listen to her as well..." 

"*chuckles*I suggest taking that to heart too" Luna said smiling.

"Yes your Majesty"

"*giggles*So formal & proper..." Luna said looking amused.

"Well I should start since I am trying to be a guard"

"True...but right now I wish to engage in friendly casual conversation" Luna said. 

"Sorry....I am also formal when dealing with authority figures" I stated.

"Ah I see, but you should know me & my sister as often casual ponies" 

"I should but I did not want to be casual when I should not...in case it is not appropriate" 

"Understood, but now that you know for sure you can be at ease about us" Luna said reassuringly.

"Thank you Luna; oh and how are you and Cielo?" 

"You are welcome, and we are well; yourself?" 

"Had a busy first day working for Applejack and my first payment will be given at week's end" 

"Excellent! Tis wonderful you are hard working and earning payment for thy work!" Luna beamed happily.

"Thank you, I feel pretty proud myself..." ~*sigh*...and it will be only myself will be proud of my work and accomplishments......I love my new friends being happy...but a friend...I hate to say is not enough anymore...~. So we kept walking, it was eventually we met Cielo half way in a hallway.

"Cielo!" Luna called out.

"Hello beloved, is my recruit ready?" 

"Yes he is Cielo and he is impatient about starting" 

"Well that is new...usually they aren't ready to be trained...I may like this one more that I do already" Cielo said confidently.

"I hope to continue to be favored....at least in the long run" 

"We'll see about that, but first...your training" Cielo replied; we then reached the area for training.

"Well Bold Heart, this is where I leave you; train hard and train well" 

"I will try Luna" 

"Good; Cielo?" 

"Yes Luna?" 

"Train him well but don't be too hard on him." Luna giggled.

"I won't my love." 

"Good. Farewell boys!~" 

"Bye!~" Cielo called back, "Now then." Cielo barked at me. 

"I am not your friend, but I am you Superior! YOU are to listen to whatever I order you to do understood?" 

"Sir! Yes sir!!" 

"Good! Now with me!" 

"Yes sir!" I replied galloping after him which then turned into a running exercise, we galloped hard and it was after a hard 25 laps worth we ceased and to his surprise I handled it well. 

"Well damn Heart! You tired?!" 

"No sir!!" ~HORSESCHIST!!!~

"That's good! Let's do 25 more! Then hit the weight's room!" 

"Sir! Yes sir!!" 

"Move!" Cielo barked, then we did it again. ~I do not know who is crazier, him or me!!!~

"You running out of steam there Heart?!" 

"No....Sir!!...." I panted in reply, the truth was I was exhausted but I had to push on!! 

"Horse-apples!! You look tired to me!!" Cielo retorted.

"Well...I...am...NOT!!" with a burst of energy I shocked his horseshoes off when I charged past him!! I could swear this song was playing in my head after an imaginary voice yelled "CHARGE!!" this *tune "playing" in my head I was 3 lengths ahead sweating profusely. After another 25 laps we finally ceased...and hilariously...he was exhausted and taking a breather, though I was about to pass out! 

"What?!.....was......that?!?!" Cielo asked panting heavily.

"I probably am glad we stopped so I can explain to you, I was somewhat a runner on my home planet, I was fast but not for great distances....thanks to this shape shift I feel it enhanced what I had" I reasoned on guess.

"Well.....damn!.....That's....not....fair!!....." Cielo said still sucking wind.

"With all due respect, you tired Cielo?" I asked cockily, ~That could have been stupid of me...~ 

"Being smart Heart?" Cielo asked regaining his energy.

"No sir, I was asking an honest question" ~not!....~ 

"Well in that case....NO. Just taking a short breather" Cielo stated, ~Liar...~ 

"Very well sir, I understand" ~HA!~ 

"Good! Now, to the Gym!!" 

"Yes sir!!" I replied as we cantered to our next task in the training process.

"After the Gym we hit 'The Course'!" 

"Yes sir." we soon were in the gym while I exercised Cielo, watched me for which we were here for an hour and a half, then after a very brief rest we hit "The Course"; once there I was on the course from the moment he finished his instructions, we were here for 2 hours!! I was worn, weary, yet unbowed; I was making progress.

"Let us retire cadet! You did enough for today, tomorrow we will continue your training, you may be a cadet but since you are a unique case we are doing training in stages" Cielo stated, it was 11:30AM when we came to Canterlot, now it was 4PM.

"Why is my case 'unique' enough for this kind of treatment?" I asked near suspiciously.

"I do not have the answer, the Princesses do" he replied like it was a prepared response to my question.

"Now! To the barracks! With me!" Cielo ordered.

"Yes sir!" I replied to which we between cantered and galloped to the barracks. Upon arrival he showed me my bunk I would be using, then showed me other important places I would need to know about within the barracks, after that the Mess Hall where I will be eating this evening with my fellow cadets and guards which the guards dominated in numbers since there was not a increase of recruiting, ~Shame....I guess that night was my last with royalty...but, it was expected...I am a "Guard-in-Training" now~ 

"So, this is were I leave you; we will continue tomorrow and after more train you will be given important information to which will become a written test understood?" Cielo said seriously.

"Yes sir" I replied quickly, "Excellent; well eat and sleep well cadet" 

"Thank you sir, goodnight sergeant" 

"Goodnight" Cielo said before leaving; now here I was, a cadet in the Equestrian Canterlot Royal Guard, there was no turning back now as I thought about the future, which was a lot as I sat eating the meal with those who were there. I had nopony talk with me the whole "dinner" and soon I hits the bunk, ~*sigh* I am a cadet, a royal cadet.....what are you doing Edwards?....why the guard?....because you are a closet masochist....*sarcastic chuckle*~. 

TO BE CONTINUED.
> Chapter 10: Feriter-Fidus(Fiercely Loyal)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

  		    ~I am walking through Canterlot, it is again looking pretty deserted as I walk the halls aimlessly, but my journey is not long and I soon venture into the garden; I am now in the garden and it is still peaceful but missing a large portion of its animals, it was okay but unsettling at the same time. I am walking through part of the garden and taking in the sights, I am peaceful yet feeling uneasy, like someone was watching me....I could not know why but I felt "she" was here watching me...for whatever reason it was...part of me was NOT wanting her here....for obvious reasons.....~ suddenly there was a loud shout and before I could get to my hooves I was on the floor scrambling to stand, which was not long and soon I was on my hooves and there was....

"ON YOUR HOOVES HEART!!!" Cielo........

"SIR! YES, SIR!!!" I shouted back as I stood as straight as I could now wide awake but my heart barraging my rib-cage like a battery of cannons.

"Now Heart Move! Move!! Move!!!" He barked as I struggled to execute his order. 

"That means now Bold Heart!!!" Cielo aggravated.

"Yes sir! I am sir!!" I replied moving quicker.

"Good! Now before you get to eat you are to have more exercise understood?!" 

"Sir! Yes sir!!" I replied again. 

"Excellent! Now with me!!" Cielo ordered before we 1/2 galloped, 1/2 catered off, we went through the same thing again, then we did an additional "classified" course of exercise, after that I finally got to eat but was then given the information needed to be known and certain protocols of being a Royal Guard, all 300 of them!!! After that a written test was done and I was awaiting the results of the test, 

*Cielo enters* 

"Sir, how was my performance sir?" 

"Well after examining your answers and the ratio of Right:Wrong....." Cielo said pausing as he looks at the sheet again, I was nervous...for all I know I could have did not enough to pass the written test and hopefully be able to take the written test again.

"........You passed" Cielo stated.

".....What?...." 

"*chuckles* You heard me" Cielo quipped smirking.

"*stutters*.....Uh-thank you sir!!" I fought to say.

"Don't thank me yet, you have only just begun Cadet" Cielo said clearly stifling his amusement. 

"Oh crap....." I said only to invoke Cielo's laughter.

"What else is there to do sir?" I asked nervous and confused. 

"*chuckles* You need armor Heart, to be a guard you need your armor" Cielo stated barely holding his composure stifling his laughter. 

"Oh, I see....something amusing Sergeant?" I asked catching on.

"Don't back talk me Private" He order regaining himself, he clearly looks bummed that I caught him...~I am pretty sharp Cielo...I can play your game~ 

"Yes sir, I was not trying to sir" I lied.

"Alright Heart, now come with me and we will have you fitted out for your armor" Cielo said walking away.

"Yes sir" I replied as I then followed.

"Hey..." Cielo said softly, "Yes sir?" I asked calmly. 

"Congratulations Heart, good work" Cielo said proudly. 

"Thank you sir" I replied happily; we made our way to the blacksmith and upon reach him we then had me measured with a type of tape measure like what Rarity would use, and soon the smith spoke.

"Your armor shall be doone in a sho't time" he said with a thick deep cockney accent.

"Thank you 'Blast Furnace'" I said warmly. 

"Yo'r welc'ome, it is my j'ob and proud service to make armor fo' new Guards like y'urself" he said kindly.

"I for one express joy in that statement" I replied extending my hoof for which Blast Furnace shook firmly. 

"Yo'r a good colt, I think as long as you have that kindness and warmth, good things will happen" Furnace stated sage like.

"I have been told that..." 

"Well listen well young lad, you might get a some sweet honey as a result?" 

"I would hope so...." 

"Y'ur youn'g....you 'ave time" Furnace said walking away, ~I pray I do....~

I soon followed Cielo away and donned my new dress uniform, then I was taken to the Throne room where Celestia, Luna, and...Twilight?.....were sitting waiting for me.

"Welcome back Bold Heart!" Luna chimed happily.

"Thank you" I replied.

"Congratulations on passing Heart! I knew you would" Twilight chirped; eliciting a blush & sideways glance from me, a giggle from the 3 princesses.

"I agree with Twilight, I had a feeling you would do well and pass easily; furthermore with your passion, sense of duty and loyalty, the Guard should be naturally a place for you" Celestia expressed warmly. 

"I trust I, Luna, Twilight, and everypony else will be even safer with you in the ranks" Celestia added. 

"I concur sister, I feel he has shown his worth to the Guard" Luna agreed. 

"All this flattery...I am speechless..." 

"*giggles*You give flattery to us...why not we give some to you?" Celestia quipped.

"I guess I feel more comfortable giving than receiving..." I answered honestly, ~That could be a questionable statement....oh crap...~ 

"Is that so?~.....Nothing wrong with that" Celestia said coyly looking at her sister and Twilight only to have Twilight giggle.

"You may be in for it now...." Cielo whispered in my ear, ~I only thought~

"Did I ask you for a comment?" I quietly shot back. 

"Now now colts~...no fighting~" Luna cooed.

"Did this suddenly concern you?" I snipped lightly only to get partial startled expressions from everypony.

"Excuse us Bold Heart....we did not mean to intrude, but you could have been less snappish in your reply" Luna stated looking slightly emotionless.

"I did not try to sound too snappish, I was trying to be soft in my remark; I apologize" I defended.

"I see...well whatever it was you 2 were saying I do not really need to know, it is fine now; nevertheless congratulations on becoming a guard you will start when you are called, for now celebrate and rest Pvt. Bold Heart" Luna said.

"Thank you your Majesties, and good day to you" I bowed respectfully.

"Good day to you as well; Twilight?" Celestia said before turning to Twilight of whom turned to face Celestia.

"You may leave with him" 

"Thank you Celestia, good day Luna" 

"Good day Twilight" Luna said smoothly; soon Twilight & I left the Throne Room leaving Cielo behind. 

****Celestia & Luna****

Bold Heart soon left mine and my sister's Throne in which I then held a little talk with Luna and Cielo.

"Now you wonder why you are still here?" I asked looking at my sister and Cielo.

"Yes sister I do....what is the matter?" Luna asked me looking confused with a hint of worry.

"Is it about Bold Heart? Is it....bad?" Luna added atop, 

"No sister it is not bad..." I lied, ~I hate knowing what I know....~ 

"Oh? Then what is it about him?" Cielo asked suddenly.

"I just wish to discuss when he will report" I covered for myself, ~Guilt gnawing at you yet Tia?~ 

"I see....well when should he report?" Luna asked.

"Because if he has his report date I should go and tell him before he leaves" Cielo advised.

"You are right we should make this fast" ~Before I lose my cool~ 

"He shall report in 1 week from now" I resolved, ~That should be fine...I hope~ 

"Excellent! Now we should inform him" Luna suggested.

"I will move right away" Cielo barked as he readied to leave.

"Go my love, quickly" Luna ordered to which he left the room quickly.

"*sigh* Well he will be pleased with the quick update" I said keeping my false warm smile.

"I believe he would, things seem to be looking up for Bold Heart Tia" Luna chimed.

"True...but we'll see what happens...."~Among other things...~

"I as well, for I also hope for him to find success in other pursuits as well..." Luna said.

"Like what?" 

"Well....um....you see sister...." Luna seemed to be hesitant in her reply as she looked almost upset before continuing to speak to me, "Bold Heart had.....feelings for me..." Luna finished looking guilty.

"Really??" I replied with shock.

"Yes; he had feelings for me, when he found out about Cielo & I.....I...I-think...." Luna faltered again in her thought, causing me great concern, "Think what Luna?" I asked eager for an answer.

"I broke his heart....badly...." Luna finished again, looking even guiltier, "Oh no...." I said feeling worried even more, ~No-no-no-NO!! NOT this as well!! DAMMIT!! Just when I didn't have enough to worry about Bold Heart...now this?!~ 

"Yes; I now fear he may have a goal he is reaching for atop his basic goals of adapting to life in Equestria, and he may be finding it a challenge he has to fight to beat..." 

"Are you sure Luna?" 

"Yes sister; when I looked into his eyes he showed....disappointment" Luna observed.

"That is ill news...I do not want to deny him the guard over this....that would crush him" ~And crush me as well, the poor stallion seems to be very sweet in his demeanor~ I said while mulling over this information Luna gave me.

"That it would Tia....for I can tell this stallion has confidence and emotional issues, he can handle only so much....he desires stability and security...the guard will not suit him ill but an upset to general stability and his personal security will...." Luna stated.

~Judging from his dreams he wants peace for his already troubled mind...he also seems to be looking for me as well....*sigh* I would not blame him...for if he is looking for me, then I hath done more damage than I thought...~ Luna thought.

"Then I guess we should keep a careful eye on Bold Heart, in case something is wrong" I surmised.

"Agreed" Luna stated; I swear in that moment the whole room went cold and felt heavy on my already burdened shoulders.....~Holy Father.....what do I do?~.
*Me & Twilight*

Twilight and I began our venture down the hallway to leave for a Tavern in Canterlot, this was a time to celebrate and Twilight agreed to buy me and herself a drink, I was feeling atop the world. We were half way down the hall when.

"Bold Heart!! Bold Heart wait!!" Cielo shouted tearing down the hall at full gallop.

"Sgt. Cielo what is it?" I asked curious more than concerned.

"The Princesses wish to inform you that you will start 1 week from now" Cielo panted while trying to maintain a steadfast guard demeanor, 

"Oh! Well, I am pleased by this, tell them if you wish I am happy for the update and I shall report on the hour they select 1 week from now" I stated feeling relieved.

"Good, I satisfied you are so eager; I will inform them of your answer, they should give me the time they want you here when I return to the throne room and ask" Cielo informed.

"Great; when you come back know that we will wait here" 

"Good, I thank you for that...despite being able to fly...I am still recovering from a wing condition" 

"I understand Sergeant, I was wondering about that, now I know" 

"Nice to know I cleared that up" 

"Likewise" 

"I will be right back" Cielo said turning to gallop back to the Throne Room, "We will be here!" I shouted back; soon Cielo was on his way back making good speed from what I could see.

****Celestia & Luna****

The Princesses were mulling over what had been said after Cielo had left the room when Celestia was in thought about what to do when Cielo returned door flying open suddenly, "Princesses! I caught Bold Heart in time and told him the news!" 

"What did he say?" I asked coolly, 

"He says he's pleased and asks what hour you want him here?" 

"I would wish him to report at 9:00AM sharp" I stated.

"Excellent! I shall inform him right away!" Cielo stated as he saluted us before leaving us for the 2nd time, "Well this is it, no turning back now for Heart" I said trying to make light the situation.

"Indeed, for now he has a chance to perform a duty of which he would like to have done for his own country, I feel he would do us proud" Luna chimed.

"I would hope so Luna...I would hope so" ~Even in the face of his "failure" at love, for which I pray that soon changes~.

*Me & Twilight*

We sat waiting for Cielo to return, the wait took a few minutes but soon he was back.

"Bold Heart!!" 

"Yes Cielo?" 

"The Princesses say that you are to report 9AM on the dot 1 week from now"

"I see, 9AM; got it" I replied awaiting anything else, "Excellent! I shall report your agreement to the terms" 

"Good; is there anything else sir?" 

"I shall ask but you can go on to where ever you were heading" Cielo said.

"Are you sure?" I asked being considerate for his handicap, I did not want him to exhaust himself considering he had limits when it came to galloping, and I would think trotting would be better than galloping back and forth.

"I am sure" He said confidently.

"Very well, thank you Cielo we will see you if you have more info" I said kindly. 

"I shall, enjoy yourself!" Cielo shouted over his shoulder as went from a quick trot to a canter, surely he was getting worn out.

"I will!" I shouted back.

"Now, where were we?" I asked Twilight facing her.

"Drinks?" She said like she was asking me if I wanted one.

"Indeed" I replied; we then left officially to the 'Canterlot Tavern'.

****Celestia & Luna****

"Well this is it, no turning back now for Heart" I said trying to make light the situation.

"Indeed, for now he has a chance to perform a duty of which he would like to have done for his own country, I feel I should do us proud" Luna chimed.

"I would hope so Luna...I would hope so" ~Even in the face of his "failure" at love, for which I pray that soon changes~. 

We then waited again, this time the wait was a little longer, "I should help with his wings, I can remedy it" I helpfully suggested.

"Cielo would love that thank you Tia" Luna said gratefully.

"Good, for I think as good as trotting is, flying would be easier to get back and forth between certain distances" I chuckled.

"*chuckles* That it would sister, that it would" Luna said warmly; it was then we were silent, waiting for Cielo. He took 2 more minutes but he soon arrived.

"For-.....-give me....Princesses" Cielo said panting.

"*stifled giggle*Are you alright?" I asked him, "I am....fine Celestia, just a little tired" 

"I see..." I said trying not to sound amused.

"Bold Heart agrees to the time" Cielo stated.

"Excellent; that will be all, if more information is needed he can write us his questions" I said, 

"Very well Celestia" he said showing near obvious relief, ~He can be so cute...then again the guard acts like him, but Cielo has a unique charm; he should be a fine husband for Luna~ 

"Now, go and relax; if preferred you may join Bold Heart & Twilight" Luna suggested.

"Thank you; I shall" 

"Good; I would hate to see you exhausted my love" 

"It will take more than this to tire me" Cielo retorted.

"*giggle* I shalt remember your statement dearest" Luna replied coyly; I try to ignore the playful romantic banter between the two, 


"I am sure you will" Cielo shot back.

"Are you finished?" I asked trying to break up my embarrassment.

"*giggles* What is the matter sister? Can't I enjoy playful banter with my coltfriend?" Luna asked trying to embarrass me further. 

"Not while I am here!!" I stated, only to elicit a laugh from my sister and Cielo...oh the humiliation....well....it at least is a pleasant distraction from what plagues me...if but only a brief one.....

"Well, I guess I shall leave to join Twilight and Heart; good day Celestia" 

"Good day Cielo" I said, "Bye Lulu..." *giggles* Goodbye beloved" Luna replied before Cielo left the room for a final time.

*Me & Twilight*

We were walking again down the hallway once more and then exchanging words in happy conversation, "So?...Happy still?" Twilight asked making sure I was still maintaining the joy of becoming a Royal Guard.

"I am Twilight...a little weirded out by what happened earlier but happy" I answered honestly.

"*giggle* Sorry about that Heart...humor that went too far..." Twilight said blushing a little.

"Indeed; Celestia better not pull anything on me.... from what I know of her....I had better be wrong on any ideas of other traits to her personality....or is it ponyality?" 

"*laughs* hardly...plus I love that..." Twilight chirped.

"Love what?" 

"'Ponyality'*giggles* That is cute..." 

"So....personality?" 

"*snickers* Yes" 

"Okay then no need for laughing at me..." I said sounding offended.

"Aaaw....I was not laughing at you, you're silly*giggles*" 

"Thank you....." I said flatly getting a laugh out of Twilight. Soon we were out of the castle but not too long after.

"Bold Heart! Twilight!" Cielo shouted trotting up the rear, "Cielo; what is it?" I asked unsure why he was here....

"May I join you two where ever you are going? The Princesses let me take time off, but Luna suggested I take that time to join you" 

"We would love your company" Twilight said kindly.

"I too like the idea" I added.

"Much obliged, thank you" Cielo said gratefully. 

"Of course" I replied; the three of us then went to Canterlot Tavern with little words said along the way.

****Celestia & Luna****

"Seriously sister, tis all in good fun what Cielo and I were doing" Luna said innocently, yeah sure Lulu...."good fun"....

"Really?" I asked sarcastically.

"Ye sister dearest" Luna retorted playfully.

"Well I guess while we are 'playing' here, I guess I could do something to counter that" I said coyly. 

"Oh? Pray tell sibling, what is it thou hath to 'counter' our jesting?" 

"Bring up an embarrassing fact about you only I know?" I slyly stated. 

"...You wouldn't!!!" 

"*smug grin* Try me...." I grinned at her. 

"Damn you Celestia..." Luna said dejectedly. 

"Luna...watch your language..." I said while enjoying my victory over Luna, "It really was just in good fun, no need to play dirty..." Luna explained.

"I know Luna...it is just there is a time for things and somethings can wait...." I stated. 

"That I understand, but Cielo and I are just being a couple and exchanging banter, no more, no less" Luna coolly explained.

"I am for playful banter...but not at the expense of ponies around you's comfort" I countered kindly. 

"*sigh* Yes sister...." Luna said sounding annoyed.

"Thank you Luna..." I say giving her a warm hug & nuzzle to which she returns.

"You're welcome Tia" Luna said warmly. 

"Now, I believe the day is done for us as well?" I said rising from my seat. 

"Indeed Tia...what should we do for our conclusion of the day?" Luna asked. 

"Hmm....join the colts for drinks at the Tavern?" I suggested slyly, Luna then smirked for I think she was on the same page, see? My sister and I can think alike and bond on most things.

"The Tavern it is!~" Luna chimed.

"Good!...I am curious, what will Heart & Cielo think seeing us arrive?" I asked mischievously. 

"I would think they and Twilight would be surprised but not too mindful of us there" Luna chuckled impishly.

"I hope so...I know Cielo will not mind~" I teased Luna.

"*chuckles*True sister...but let us be tactful upon our arrival there" 

"That would be wise...don't want to scare off our newest recruit do we?" I asked playfully. 

"Yes sister...for we do not want Heart to lose a dearly won victory!" Luna joked. 

"Yes Luna, he came so far...let us help him not hurt him in his path to a stable life here in Equestria and on Equus" 

"Especially help him find stability before a mare walks across his path, for a stable life and healthy income would attract a mare would it?" Luna added, suddenly the mood shifted a little...our smiles left and we thought about what Luna just said.

"*sigh*...sorry Tia...I didn't....." Luna stammered, as I then put a hoof on her shoulder, "*sigh* I know Luna...but you only know half of this..." I admitted.

"If allowed I will share with you something that has been bothering me for a while now...." I confessed.

"Very well sister...but for now...let us be merry and join the others" Luna suggested.

"I would like that" I said feeling a little better, ~*sigh*...Why?...Why can I not do something? Or let Luna know what I know?....*sigh* Holy Father...in you I trust~ 

"Excellent" Luna said as we then began to leave the room and trot down the hall; It was quiet for most of the journey with everypony addressing us as we passed out of respect, something I always take time to acknowledge out mutual respect and then continue moving on, part way through my journey out of the castle we came across Blueblood.

"Auntie! Are you well?" he asked kindly.

"I am nephew, yourself?" 

"I am...I also report that the excess paperwork is finished, and important documents signed, atop that you have a committee to attend tomorrow afternoon" Blueblood reported.

"Excellent! I am pleased with the report and your information, as well as your condition" I thanked and complimented, "Good, and now...*wipes forehead* I am done for the day...where are you off to?" 

"I am off to Canterlot Tavern to join a new recruit, Cielo, and Twilight for relaxation" I explained.

"Oh, may I join you? I could use something after the paperwork" Blueblood stated sounding exhausted. 

"Most certainly Blueblood! I would not mind you joining" 

"Thank you...plus I am interested in seeing this new member of the Guard" Blueblood said sounding intrigued.

"I can tell you he is an interesting one...one of the most unique recruits we have, I feel you should know about him but at the Tavern" I told Blueblood, 

"Alright then, I am excited to meet him" Blueblood said.

"You will not be disappointed" Luna stated.

"Good" Blueblood replied; then the 3 of us began the journey again, we left the castle and was on the to the Tavern and our surprise guests. 

TO BE CONTINUED.
> Chapter 11: Royal Rounds of cheer
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

			Twilight, Cielo and I were within the Tavern and enjoying ourselves, it was invigorating to be accepted into the guard and celebrating the accomplishment; we were in casual conversation.

"So BH? What is your poison?" Cielo asked me warmly.

"Not sure...I am unfamiliar with the drinks here..." I answered honestly as I took a moment to examine the drinks available to me.

"Well...in that case, I should start you on a stallion's drink" Cielo said with a mischievous smile.

"Bar keep!!" 

"Yes sir?! What can I get'cha?" The bartender barked heartily with a expecting smile; the stallion was a semi heavy semi muscular crimson Pegasus with light brown mane & tail with gold eyes.

"My friend here is a new recruit to the guard, get him 'The Rite of Official Passage'" Cielo grinned evilly.

"Sure thing Cielo" the Keep said winking mischievously as we went to make our drinks.

"Cielo? The drink will not be heavy will it?" Twilight asked with concern.

"A good drink is always heavy!!" Cielo said heartily.

"I understand you guards like that...but Heart would not have fun if he is passed out from 1 drink" Twilight argued while floating a glass of wine next to her; Twilight ordered a lovely Cabernet(Red wine) that had an oaky finish of which she let me sample after informing her my mother and Aunt were wine lovers.

"Aaw com'on Twilight! That is why it comes in a shot glass!" Cielo said in a explanatory tone.

"Oh....okay, that sounds much better" Twilight said sounding pleased as she sipped from her wine.

"Like I would really doing something to embarrass or harm somepony?" Cielo said with an offended tone.

"Knowing you Cielo...." Twilight countered with an incredulous looking, resulting in a awkward smile from Cielo.

"Point taken...." Cielo admitted.

"What is 'The Rite of Official Passage'?" I asked with interest more than concern.

"It has no other name, the 'TROOP', is its name; get the joke?" 

"Ha! Clever! How did it get its name?" I asked.

"It was made by a Captain decades ago, and has been the drink of new guards ever since" 

"Nice!!*laugh*" I chuckled.

"I thought that you would get a kick from that, they all do" Cielo laughed.

"It that so? Why do you say that?" I asked suspiciously.

"Because it helps the new guy to feel comfortable before he gets the drink, do not want the recruit to wuss out" 

"Like I would??" I said with a smug grin, "I am offended" I added.

"Well how was I to know?" Cielo said looking defensive.

"Now you do" I stated coolly.

"Okay big shot....let's see how you do..." Cielo said in a challenging way while smiling smugly at me.

"Yes, let us see..." I replied cockily.

"Challenging me are you?" Cielo said grinning at me.

"Maybe...." I shot back.

"Boooys....." Twilight spoke of like a mother would to her children.

"It is alright Twilight...relax" Cielo stated.

"I am not asking I am ordering" Twilight said in a authoritative tone.

"Twilight you are no fun..." I said bummed out.

"I am doing this for you both" Twilight stated.

"Yes mother" Cielo said sarcastically.

"Or would it be big sister?...." I added, resulting in Cielo and I laughing as Twilight groaned while her left eye twitched.

"Lighten up Twilight" Cielo said, "You Bold Heart, promise to be a fun guy to hang with, I respect you" 

"Thank you Cielo" I replied. 

Within a short time our drinks have arrived, we had surprise guests!! "Ah! There you are!!" Celestia chimed from the door, 

"Princess Celestia!?" Twilight and I said eyes wide. 

"Luna!?" Cielo said jaw hanging.

"Blueblood??" all 3 of us said.

"*giggles* Yes Twilight, It is us..." Celestia said stifling a laugh.

"And I am here because my day of paperwork was a long one and a drink sounds good right about now" Blueblood said smoothly.

"I did not know that about you Blueblood..." I said.

"Why would you think that? Also you are?" Blueblood asked confused.

"A long story.....my name is Bold Heart, the new recruit to the guard" I answered.

"A pleasure sir! I am pleased to meet you, Celestia told me she would talk about you" Blueblood said enthusiastically.

"Is that so?...By the way you are just in time! Heart here is being treated to a drink given to new recruits called, 'The Rite of Official Passage'" Cielo stated.

"What in God's son is that?" Blueblood asked confused.

"A drink an old guard decades ago invented it for new recruits, and it has been a tradition" Cielo explained.

"What was his name?" Blueblood asked.

"I wonder that myself" I spoke up.

"His name was Captain Ironsides" Cielo said.

"*guffaws*Really?" I said sounding amused.

"Yes...also I knew him, a good guard too; why is it amusing Heart?" Celestia asked looking curious.

"Because back home, there is a ship of who's nickname is 'Old Ironsides'; the reason is because the thick oak hull in a battle it fought during a war, bounced cannonballs off it as if the hull was made of iron" I explained.

"I see...well I am sure Ironsides would be flattered by that" Celestia said smiling.

"Can somepony explain what is going on?" Blueblood asked becoming curious.

"Well nephew, Bold Heart here is not a pony...but an alien creature that only few know about; he is...a human, taken and placed here by unknown forces" ~*sigh* secret forces....~ 

"A what??" Blueblood loudly.

"Ssssh!" Celestia said quickly.

"Sorry, a what?" Blueblood asked quietly.

"A human Blueblood, a unique creature, made in God's image" Celestia said.

"Made in his image but now being an insult to him...*sigh*...but, he loves us regardless" I spoke up.

"I see....well your drink is there and you two look like you are in middle of something" Blueblood spoke up.

"We'll just have a seat" Celestia said as the 3 moved into the bar; the Keep again named "Wheat Barley" greeted them.

"Your Majesties, what can I get you?" Barley asked respectfully.

"A glass of wine please, a nice Chardonnay, the 'Chateau Pierre'" Celestia requested.

"'Manticore Spiced Rum' please" Luna ordered.

"A beer for me please, 'Buckwieser'" Blueblood asked for last.

"Coming right up your Highness's" Barley said before preparing the drinks.

"I did not know you liked Rum..." I said surprised.

"Oh yes, I love the flavor and sensation" Luna said with a smile.

"Is that so Luna?" Cielo asked suggestively.

"Cielo!" Luna barked blushing.

"Just joking" Cielo defended causing Celestia to smirk. 

"Well...better down this" I said floating the shot of "TROOP" to change the topic.

"Oh yeah I forgot! *picks up his glass* To the new guy, and for future recruits!" Cielo toasted.

"Here! here!!" I replied; with that Cielo & I downed our shot and BOY HOWDY!! It was a wake up call!!! 

"You okay Heart?" Cielo asked me looking a little worried.

"You kidding? I feel great!" I replied to the surprise of Cielo.

"Well well well Heart! I am impressed" He replied genuinely.

"Well thank you Sergeant" I replied respectfully.

"You satisfied colts?" Twilight asked sounding annoyed slightly.

"Yes. Very" Cielo and I said resulting in Luna roaring with laughter.

"Glad we amused you dear" Cielo replied, 

"You're welcome Cielo~" Luna said still recovering from her laughing fit.

"So?~ How are you feeling?" Celestia asked looking amused from Luna's laughter.

"Besides happy, I feel content" I replied warmly.

"Good" she replied sipping her wine, "I would hope so, it is a hard won privilege that not many can claim" Celestia added placing her glass down.

"Very true, and I feel like I have done far more than in my old life back home...*sigh*...home....." I sighed thinking of the family I left behind.

"*sigh* Well....I pray that things turn out for the best, for you and your family..." Celestia said somberly.

"I thank you for that" I said gratefully.

"You are welcome Heart" Celestia said warmly.

"So, where are living?" Blueblood asked, 

"Twilight's castle..." I replied awkwardly.

"Really? May I ask why?" Blueblood asked.

"Because it was arranged that way in no small part on Twilight's behalf since she is the first I met and revealed my secret to" I explained.

"Aaah....that makes sense I suppose" Blueblood responded sounding and looking convinced.

"Of which I am obviously most grateful for it..." 

"Well I would not want you to be homeless, since you were enough upon coming here" Twilight said sweetly.

"True...but hey...back home wild equine sleep that way, so a new experience for me!" I joked.

"But what pony would I be if I did that to you? You are not a pony...at least not born one" Twilight stated in objection to my logic.

"I understand...but I partially did not know what you would think of me...either of you" 

"I could see why...but I feel a little bad you did not know you could trust us" Celestia said.

"Well how was I to know? As you say, you can see why and that is the reason" I stated.

"I guess that is true....nopony would know what to do if dropped into an alien world" Celestia saying in agreement.

"Thank you for your understanding; now Cielo? A regular drink?" 

"Sure, I can do that" he agreed turning in his seat.

"Barley?" Cielo asked out.

"Yes sir?" Barley replied.

"What you interested in?" Cielo asked me.

"I think that beer there" I selected; the beer was called "Golden Appaloosa".

"Golden Appaloosa?" Barley asked.

"Yes sir please" I replied.

"Here you are sir enjoy" Barley said placing a mug before me.

"Many thanks" I replied before drinking.

"Welcome, shout if needin' something" Barley said before leaving.

"Will do" I replied quickly. Soon also Barley returned with the drinks for Celestia, Luna, and Blueblood; I must say I felt guilty that the show painted him in such a way, for he was nothing like the show showed him as.

"So, when did you come to Equestria?" said the stallion aforementioned.

"I 'arrived' almost a week ago" I said taking a swig.

"I see...." Blueblood said listening with interest.

"Within a few hours I went to see your aunts, and the situation was made known to them and made myself comfortable and adjusted to being here; I must say eating with royalty was a first" I said.

"*laugh*I see, I would think that would be the case but however we are just ponies Heart, as hard as it is to believe especially said from one like me/us" Blueblood said warmly.

"I can understand that, and I must say the hospitality was naturally a plus especially it was on my first day...I do not think I can ever express my gratitude fully" I expressed.

"I think you showed enough Heart" Celestia said kindly sipping her wine.

"Alright; so...back to Aj's for work with my roommate Hostess Twilight" I summed up.

"Sounds about right, but I would try to do more than just that" Twilight stated.

"Like what?" I asked unsure what she meant by that.

"Like at least think on what to do with your new life here beyond just those 2 things, such as...maybe since you brought it up, house hunting? Then....maybe other things?" Twilight said sounding like she was going somewhere with this.

"The former yes, the latter I do not know what you mean" I state looking at her curiously.

"Oh just...anything besides what you plan" Twilight said sounding like she was beating around a bush.

"Not really anything else...if another action is to be decided I will let you know" I said hoping it would end the topic.

"Okay...very well" Twilight said sounding satisfied, ~Finally~.

We spent some more time at the tavern before eventually we decided to part with everypony leaving for each destination, Twilight and I decided that Ponyville was where we wanted to go and after a few more words with the princesses we made our way to the train station to head back home. 

"2 tickets for Ponyville please" Twilight asked the ticket box attendant, the pony a unicorn tan stallion then hoofed over the tickets of which again she paid nothing for 1.

"Thank you" she replied before walking to me.

"It shouldn't be long, a 30 minute wait that's all" Twilight said.

"That is good, gives time for the alcohol to disperse" I said sitting on my haunches.

"*giggles* That is true, I am feeling a little tipsy, but fine as well; I am amazed how you fair" Twilight smirked.

"That is good too, No....*laugh* I did not have that much, yes that one drink was strong but not overbearing" I responded amused.

"You sure??" Twilight teased.

"Yes, I am perfectly Princess, fine" I cleverly retorted crossed-eyed with an exaggerated slur and stumbling intentionally, resulting in Twilight's laughter.

"Good one" she giggled.

"I have my moments, it comes at times either of or not of my choosing" I explained normally.

"That's what is charming about you, your humor" Twilight said sweetly putting her hoof on my shoulder. 

"It is unique only to you, and it is so...well...cutely original, it shows your personality at it's base; a reason I feel you will be a very interesting new friend to me, the Princesses, and my friends; as well as the ponies you come into contact with" Twilight added warmly finishing with a amused smile.

"Thank you Twilight, I am glad for this" I replied gratefully. 

"You're welcome Heart, Jesse" she said nuzzling me, ~Oh jeez~....

"You okay Twilight?" I asked perplexed and blushing.

"Yes, why?" she asked curious.

"You nuzzled me" I observed.

"It was just a kind gesture toward you Heart" Twilight explained.

"You sure Twilight? You sure it is not the alcohol acting?" I asked.

"*giggled* I am not that drunk Heart, I am very sober with that gesture" Twilight stated.

"Okay then, then thanks again" I replied kindly, "Welcome Heart" Twilight chuckled. The two of us sat for the half hour we needed to and soon the train whistled into the station, but......something happened once the train arrived, some guards appeared and they walked to the last car in the train, the car was ornate and regal baring a familiar symbol, a snowflake in a circle with swirls on the sides....the Crystal Empire!!

"Twilight! Look!" I said pointing at the last car on the train.

"What?" Twilight said before she focused on the car in question.

"Recognize it?" I said with a slight knowing smile with surprise, after a bit Twilight spoke with eyes wide.

"*gasp* That is from the Crystal Empire!!" Twilight said looking pleased.

"I wonder who is visiting? Your brother or Cadence?" I asked intrigued, our answer was not long in coming and soon a white stallion and a familiar pink Alicorn mare appeared.

"Well well well!! Both of them are here!" I said with further surprise.

"I think we can spare a moment to say hello" Twilight said with a giddiness to her voice.

"I do not see why not, other than being a little drunk though......" I said as if suggesting we should leave instead.

"Aw we're fine Bold Heart, relax!" she said sounding slightly annoyed.

"Okay okay, just do not do anything stupid" I said looking a little worried.

"I won't!" Twilight said before making her way to her sister-in-law and brother.

"Armor! Cadence!" Twilight called out while I advanced slowly.

"Twily!!" Armor called out warmly.

"Hi Twilight!" Cadence called out as well, before followed cutely and expectantly as well as surprisingly smooth since Twilight was a little tipsy with.

"Sunshine! sunshine!! Ladybugs awake! Clap your hooves and do a little shake!" ~Oh dear God that is still too cute and funny!!~ 

"*laughing* Great to see you! What brings you here to Canterlot?" Twilight asked then hugging her brother.

"Oh just some news we wanted to share" Cadence said with a knowing smile looking at Armor.

"What news?" Twilight asked.

"We're having a foal!" Armor beamed proudly, resulting in Twilight being dumbfounded before letting out a loud squeal of delight before hugging Cadence.

"Congratulations your Majesty" I said warmly with a bow.

"Thank you, and you are?" Cadence responded looking me over.

"Bold Heart your Majesty, a new recruit to the Equestrian Royal Guard" I replied with a salute.

"A pleasure! I am happy to meet you Bold Heart" Cadence said moving to shake my hoof.

"The honor is mine Princess Cadence, Twilight told me about you" I said with the latter info added to cover for me for now before kissing her hoof.

"My Bold Heart! You are quite the gentle-stallion!" Cadence complimented, "She has? Well that is nice of her" Cadence added.

"Thank you Cadence, I tend to be that way alot...it is good of her; also I am happy to hear this news but Twilight and I were heading back to Ponyville when you arrived" I stated kindly.

"Oh well that is a good trait to have; you were heading back to Ponyville? Sorry about stalling you" Cadence apologized.

"No it is fine, I think I can and you can go ahead Heart; I want to hang with my family" Twilight stated. 

"Alright; let me give your ticket back until later" I said.

"Sure, you can do that" Twilight replied giving me her ticket.

"See you whenever you come back to Ponyville!" I called back as I made my way to the counter before boarding the train, 

"Bye!" Twilight called out. Soon I boarded the train and the train began its journey back to Ponyville, to be honest it was a good day and home sounded good.

*Twilight*

"So Twily, how have you been?" Armor asked me looking curious, 

"Oh enjoying something to drink*chuckle* Then after Heart, Blueblood, Luna, Celestia, and Luna's coltfriend Cielo went where ever and I was about to head home with Heart" I rattled off when the train whistled its departure before taking off.

"Ah, I see...where is Bold Heart living in Ponyville?" Armor asked. 

"He....*chuckle* is homeless...because of 'unique' circumstances" I replied sheepishly because I did not want to give the wrong impression, 

"Oh no! What happened?" Cadence asked looking concerned.

"Weeeeelll....he is not from around here...he is not even from Equus..." 

"WHAT?!?" Cadence & Armor replied interrupting looking surprised.

"Yes...you see, he is called a 'human', from a planet called Earth and he was brought here by who knows what and now is trying to build a life here since we do not have the power to bring him home" I explained, the alcohol was luckily burning off so things were doing fine as I was explaining Jesse AKA Bold Heart's story.

"You're kidding....really?" Cadence asked looking unconvinced.

"I am telling the truth, you can ask Celestia & Luna" I said honestly.

"Then I think we shall, but not yet...we have our mom and dad to see and tell them the news" Armor said moving off toward the city.

"*sigh* Okay; lead the way B.B.B.F.F." I said casually.

"*chuckle*Alright then" Armor said as Cadence followed.

"I am SOO excited!!" Cadence said giddily.

"So am I!!" I sang back before we hugged each other again.

****Celestia****

Luna and I began our journey back the castle, along the way I too could not help but feel good about the course of the day, it felt just right and from how Cielo and Luna are acting *giggle* I think their day is not over yet.

"You doing okay Cielo?" I asked playfully.

"What makes you think I am not?" he asked me looking slightly confused and yet slightly intoxicated.

"Just asking, since you had a bit to drink..." I observed.

"Yes but it was not that much Tia" Cielo replied, Cielo I found it interesting he is adopting Luna's nickname for me...they may be a couple soon I can tell, but then....what then from there? I may be over-thinking it but Heart may not receive the wedding well...considering his love for Luna, it would probably be for the best; but then excluding him from it would create a problem as well....*sigh* what a quagmire....

"Okay Cielo~" I replied amused.

"*laugh*Say what's up?" Cielo asked me. 

"What do you mean?" 

"What I mean is why do you look like you have something on your mind?" he clarified.

"Why do you think I have something on my mind?" I asked trying partially to deflect the question.

"You look distracted....plus you almost tripped a few times..." 

"I did??" I said looking for whatever was causing me to stumble only to see a few rocks and gaps in the road.....oops...

"Well....it is complicated...nothing for you to concern yourself over" ~yet....~ 

"Okay sister, just don't trip on anything *giggle* somepony may think you had too much to drink!" Luna laughed.

"Ha-ha Luna...." I remarked sarcastically only to have both Luna & Cielo laugh, hilarious....

"Had enough?" I asked a little annoyed.

"Mmm....not fully" Luna remarked coyly.

"Well then sober up before you and Cielo do anything will you?" I joked perhaps a little too suggestively.

"Tia!~..." Luna whined.

~Gotcha!~ I thought.

"What?~" I chimed in reply, I admit...it is fun to tease Luna occasionally.

"You know what Tia!! That is most unclean and unfair!" Luna protested, but it is wise when one should stop, especially when after making a slightly poor tasting joke.

"No it is alright Luna...she has some truth to her words here...I will admit...I think I had too much...so let us get sober before we do something we will regret" Cielo reasoned, 

~Well...didn't expect that....*chuckle*~ 

"*sigh*...Very well Cielo, I now agree..." Luna relented. 

~Or that~ 

"Good, for I think we had enough excitement" Cielo added.

"Agreed" I said; we were at the castle and soon went our separate ways.

"See you later Luna, Cielo" I said warmly.

"See you later Tia" Luna said as she and Cielo went to her chambers, and soon....our day for now is done. 

TO BE CONTINUED. 
> Chapter 12: The Sparkle Family
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                                                                                 *Me*

I now made my way home and to be honest it is of course a relief to do so, a week in Ponyville before my days as a guard begins sounds like something to me, it will be a satisfying thing since I am wanting to make my new life here comfortable if it is going to be my permanent life...*sigh* but will my life be only successful? Will I just have a healthy income and nothing else? Or is there a mare for me and I am not seeing it? I guess only time and God will tell....

*Twilight*

I went onward toward my old house, I find it nice that my parents didn't decide to move....anyways we were on our way and extremely eager to tell mom and dad they're going to be grandparents. 

"I am happy I get to be an aunt!" I said smiling.

"*giggles* I know twilight, and our parents will be equally happy to be grandparents as well" Cadence said looking amused.

"Oh yeah that too; that is amazing too" 

"I wonder what will be done when they find out?" 

"A nice talk I would think...." Cadence answered.

"That and a meal...knowing my mom" Armor said chuckling.

"Oh that would be great, I am getting hungry..." Cadence said rubbing her stomach.

"You just ate!!" Armor observed, that was funny I thought.

"Uh honey?...." Cadence deadpanned.

"Ooooh...." Armor realized, and that was hilarious!! 

"Okay sweetie I will get you something if our folks don't cook, but I bet you they will so be patient" Armor comforted.

"*sigh* Okay Armor" Cadence relented, I could not help but laugh here.

"You laugh now, but wait until you have a foal..." Cadence fake scolded and warned.

"I know Cadence, I get it; it was just cute" I defended.

"I know Twilight, sorry....pregnancy makes a mare snippish at times, its the hormones" Cadence apologized.

"Just be thankful she snapped the way she did...you have yet to see her snip at you..." said Armor as he winked at me.

"I think I am good Armor" I replied rolling my eyes.

"*laugh* Okay you two...let us just get moving, our parents are waiting" 

"Yes Cadence" Armor replied. Soon we made our way toward our parents and at the door was greeted by my mom.

*Velvet Sparkle*

I received a letter from Cadence and my son that they would be visiting today, what happened next caught me by surprise.

"Hi mom!!" Twilight chimed.

"Sweetheart! You are here too?" I replied in surprise.

"What do you mean mom?" Twilight responded in confusion.

"Well, you see honey, Cadence & Armor were going to visit us, they sent your father and I a letter saying they had news and was going to tell us in pony, how is it you are here as well?" I explained then asked.

"Well.....it was unintentional mom, Twily here was here with a friend she made and new recruit to Equestria's guard; one we will ask Celestia & Luna about for more info on" Armor said stepping in.

"I see....well come inside and make yourselves comfortable, you had a long journey" I invited warmly.

"Thank you mom" Cadence chimed.

"You're welcome dear, and how are you?" I asked warmly hugging her.

"Splendid! Even more so as of late" Cadence said looking at Armor.

"Why is that? What is so special lately?" I asked looking between the two.

"Well...Cadence?" Armor asked.

"Well, Velvet...You wouldn't mind if you are called 'Grandma' from now on would you?" Cadence said sheepishly, in that moment my eyes widened and I thought I would pass out right there on the spot...but instead.

"*scream* Bless me then pinch me!!" I shouted hopping in place before hugging Cadence again.

"What is going on over here?" my husband said walking into the living room.

"Your son is going to be a father!!!" I squealed in delight; I was like a little filly.

"Well! Well! Well! I am proud of you son!" Nightlight beamed proudly hugging Armor.

"Thanks dad, I am pretty happy but nervous..." 

"HA! That's okay Armor, I would be impressed if you weren't!" Nightlight said lightly slapping behind his shoulders.

"Can I get you something Cadence?" I asked energetically.

"*giggle* I am a bit hungry..." Cadence said rubbing her tummy.

"Ah yes...*giggle* I remember that..." I recalled smiling.

"Really?" Cadence replied as if expecting more info.

"Oh yes dear, more so with Armor; I was less snackish with Twilight...but...the morning sickness was worse, as it is with fillies for some reason..." I explained.

"Oh....so heavy morning sickness would equal...." Cadence said thinking.

"Perhaps....do you have that?" I asked intrigued.

"No...*gasp* could I be having...." Cadence said with curious interest.

"We'll see~..." I said smiling.

"Heh....well then, I guess the 'Sparkle' name may continue..." Nightlight said with a touch of pride.

"We'll see dad, we'll see" Armor chuckled.

"Anyways....you were hungry and we are about to start dinner, so let me start and soon we will be eating" I said.

"Okay then I can wait..." Cadence said moving to a couch to sit.

"But....if feeling snackish, I can get you an apple or something?" 

"That will help" Cadence said looking grateful.

"*giggle* 1 apple coming up" I replied, 

"Thank you" Cadence called out.

"Anything for my daughter-in-law, and a new mother!" I called back.

*Nightlight Sparkle*

"So...when are you due?" I asked eagerly.

"9 months in addition" Cadence said.

"Oh okay, just know if you need more assistance, Velvet will let you in on some info here and there..." I said to Cadence before looking to Armor

"And you come to me for any questions you might have you hear?" I stated to Armor.

"I will dad, I bet I will" 

"HA! That's my boy..." I chuckled.

"I wonder who the foal will take after?" I mused aloud.

"That is a good question, but I just wonder what the foal look like, and how healthy it will be" Cadence said.

"Of course, that is important; the health of the foal should come first" I agreed; it was while we were talking that Velvet re-entered the room holding an apple, obviously for Cadence as she asked for her hunger.

"Cadence?" 

"Yes mom? Oh thank you" Cadence said as she grabs then bites into the apple she got her.

"You're welcome; those cravings eh?...*giggles*" 

"I know....*moans* They can be a bit much..." Cadence says eating through her apple.

"Tell me about it..." Armor groaned, resulting in laughter much to his "chagrin".

"Oh come on Shining, I'm not that bad!" Cadence laughed finishing her apple.

"You have like (3) breakfasts, (2) lunches, and 2 dinner courses!! On top of that 2 dessert courses" Armor replied.

"That's not true!!" Cadence said playfully defensive.

"The heck it's not!" Armor shot back.

"Now now you two..."  Velvet chided playfully.

"It is okay mom, they are playing with each other" Twilight spoke up.

"I know dear, just telling them to tone it down a bit" Velvet reassured.

"Oh, okay mom" Twilight said.  

"Now back to making dinner" Velvet said moving back to the kitchen.   

"So...Twilight? What are you doing in Canterlot?" I asked settling in my chair.

"I was here because of a friend I made, new to here" Twilight explained.

"Apparently he is a new recruit to the Guard, and...an alien" Armor said.

"A WHAT?" I asked surprised.

"An alien dad. not just any alien but a creature called a 'human'" Twilight added in.

"A 'human'?" I asked confused.

"A creature that walks on two legs no hair except on their head, no tail, a hard to fully describe creature..." Twilight explained.

"How did he get here?" I asked processing the info.

"He doesn't know...it was like he was home one minute, here the next" Twilight said.

"Is that so?...." 

"Yep, that is what happened; he has been here for basically a week so far...quite a busy week" Twilight stated.

"I would say so!" I said genuinely impressed.

"So where does he live since he came here Twilight?" 

"With me...since I was the first pony he met" Twilight said awkwardly.

"He lives with you because he met you first?" I asked.

"Yes that is it, he seems to like trusting me and feels like he has stability living in my castle" Twilight explained.

"Hmm....fascinating..." 

"Do you like him Twilight?.." Cadence remarked.

"No...not like that; I see him as a stranger in need of a hoof-hold on a strange planet, and that hoof-hold being in the form of a friend, which I am now for him and will continue to be so even for the rest of his life; even if he gets back home" Twilight proclaimed.

"Hmm, that is nice sweetheart but...just be careful" I said caringly.

"I think that sounds nice Twilight, very much like you" Armor spoke up, 

"Thank you Shining, but it is being a good pony to do this; and I trust him dad" 

"True but that does not make it less kind" Armor said, 

"I know Armor"

"Okay Twilight...if he is alright, then I approve"

"Thank you dad" Twilight said. 

*Twilight* 

So far things this has been an interesting day...first celebrating Bold Heart's entry into the Royal Guard and now having dinner with my family while celebrating Cadence and Armor's new unborn foal, quite a day this has been.

"So...I wonder what mom is cooking?" I asked to change topic.

"From the smell it smells like....Lasagna!!" Cadence said hungrily.

"Oh! My old favorite!" I said giddily.

"We should see if mom needs help" Cadence suggested.

"Indeed, let us see what she needs help with" I said as Cadence and I walked into the kitchen; we found mom chopping the ingredients and eventually offered a hoof, dinner would be ready in 25 minutes. Dinner was now on and we were having a blast eating and talking with one another, Cadence & Shining talking about plans for their foal such as names, foal room ideas, etc.; all seemed wonderful and perfect, one could not ask for a perfect day as this.

"So you're saying you would name your foal 'Melody' if a filly, and 'Silver' if a colt?" my mother asked.

"Yep, that's right; has good rings to them you think? 'Melody Velvet Sparkle' and 'Silver Night Sparkle'?" Armor said happily.

"They do sound nice, I like 'Silver Night', that is a great name for a colt" dad said with pride.

"Thanks dad, glad you like it" Armor replied as he helped himself to more Lasagna.

"What about Cadence? What does she say about the names?" mom asked as she sipped on her wine, 

"I agreed to them, that is why he brought it up and I said nothing against it" Cadence replied she too eating more Lasagna but in smaller servings so to leave some for the rest of us.

"Oh alright then in that case I am pleased you have it all planned out for your new foal" mom said helping herself to some Lasagna.

"Thanks mom" Armor said he too eating more, 

"Welcome son".

It was now time for dessert and it was delicious! Homemade Ice Cream and some of my moms Blackberry Cobbler, with that everypony was settling in after a wonderful dinner by the fireplace; this is a great day and it kept getting better as it went along.

"What time is it?" I asked half asleep.

"It is 8:30" my mom said as she read a book.

"I think I should be going, Bold Heart is back in Ponyville" 

"Let me escort you to the station Twily" Armor said warmly, 

"Thanks Shining" I said gratefully; and with that Armor and I left for the station. The walk went without words as went along just content with the evening and the meal we just had, the silence was eventually broken when Armor noticed my silence and mentioned it.

"You have been quiet on this walk" 

"I am thinking about Heart, he seems like he is getting comfortable being here but...." I trailed off in thought for a description when Armor filled in.

"He seems homesick?" 

"Sort of...also he seems like he is searching for something as well....." I added thinking more on this.

"Searching for what?" Armor asked looking curious.

"I am not sure...I want to ask but...well...something happened between Rarity and him when we left Canterlot on his 2nd day here on Equus, it made me think there is something but I am not sure..." I stated.

"What happened?" 

"Rarity and Heart got into an argument over how Heart was acting even on the train back to Ponyville, from what Rarity is suggesting...Heart, had his heart broken somehow" I summarized.

"Really?...." Armor said looking more intrigued.

"Yes and I am not sure what this could mean if it is true...should I ask, or not?" I asked almost like it was a important task I had to complete.

"I suggest waiting, wait until the time seems right, then ask" Armor said calmly.

"How will I know when is right?" 

"When he seems most open" Armor replied sagely.

"*sigh* Okay Shining, I just hope I don't blow it when I try to ask him" I said sounding nervous.

"If you want help on this, ask for it, Cadence may be able to help; or Rarity since this was brought up with her" Armor suggested.

"I think I shall...thanks B.B.B.F.F." I said more cheerfully, "Welcome Twily" Armor replied kindly.

Soon we reached the station and then I was on my way home, what a day indeed....I think Heart may be asleep by now since he works for Aj, well....it seems like Heart is well adjusted to life in Equestria; I just hope perhaps life will continue to be as smooth as possible for him....one can only hope, God will see to all our journeys, and know whether or not the road of life will be rough or smooth, and challenging or simple.

****Celestia****

I was now settling in for the night and this day was an interesting one, but with the issue concerning Jesse aka "Bold Heart" I was uncertain what life here on Equus will do for him and what it will offer, truly though one thing seemed hinted by Luna, he was longing for love, a mate, a marefriend....and from what Luna suggested, her having a coltfriend in Cielo did not settle too well with Heart....as if I didn't have enoug-.....*knock-knock* 

"Oh...who could be knocking at my door?" I asked getting up to answer my guest, I opened the door and the presence standing in my door was...."*gasps*...." 

TO BE CONTINUED....
> Chapter 13: Uncertainty...
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                                         				              	           ****Celestia****

From what Luna suggested, her having a coltfriend in Cielo did not settle too well with Heart....as if I didn't have enoug-.....*knock-knock* "Oh...who could be knocking at my door?" I asked getting up to answer my guest, I opened the door and the presence standing in my door was....

"*gasps*....Oh...it is you" I said as I moved aside to let my guest in.

"May I ask why you are visiting m-*shushes gently* Sorry....'Father'" 

"It is alright Tia, force of habit by many" my guest said softly.

"Indeed" I replied laying on my bed while facing my guest.

"Now, you wonder why I am here and I shall tell you why...you know that it was I who brought him here...and that he was brought here for a reason, I am sorry my child, but I cannot tell you what my reason is...." He spoke somberly.

"*sigh*....then you know why I ask nonetheless?" I asked respectfully.

"I do; you worry about his emotional welfare...." 

"Yes that is right..." I said calmly. 

"I am aware of his desires and his wishes, but it is in my time that he shall find what he desires for I know what is best for him, as my father knew what was best so to do I for him" 

"I expected this...it is doing little to-..." I began to say that it was not resting my mind when.

"I know my child, look at the whole picture not one part" 

"*sigh*....but it is he who does not see the picture at all...." I said dejectedly.

"He will Tia, he will...." and with that he was gone....I looked about for a moment before settling on my bed.

"Well this went how I expected...*sigh*....be strong Heart....be strong....". The evening went on and as far as things go I could be feeling more at ease than I do...but I am not at ease....for what I do know along with what I do not will rob me of sleep that is for sure...oh what do you do.....when you hold 1/2 the cards?....
*Twilight*

The train ride was not very long but it felt long as I made the evening ride to Ponyville, my mind was uneasy...the talk I had with Armor had me thinking, what if Heart is not fully content with what he has?....What if he is feeling...."incomplete"? These are things I will have to tackle another time, there is too much for tonight to deal with; for now I have a guest to return too...I hope he has eaten...I am sure he has...unless he has little skill in cooking....then he may need dinner himself...for just an apple or something isn't a dinner, well...there is my task to take my mind off this, for now. The train finally arrived and I left quickly to head home to see what the situation was...then I remembered...

"Oh Spike! I forgot! He can cook as well, well then I guess then whatever's left over can be a good lunch" I said as I made my way to my castle, my journey didn't take long and I was home at last.

"Hello? Spike? Bold Heart?" I called out upon entering; I ventured deeper into the castle before I called out again then getting a response.

"Hey Twilight!" Heart called out, he was sitting at the dinner table with Spike.

"Hello everypony, how is dinner going?" I asked cheerfully.

"Great! You and Spike are amazing chefs!" Heart said eating more food; I blushed as a result.

"I am glad" I replied smiling.

"How was your time with you family?" 

"It was great, mom made dinner and we all ate and had dessert too" I recapped.

"Oo!~ What did you have?" Heart asked eagerly.

"Lasagna for dinner and Homemade Ice Cream with Blackberry Cobbler for dessert" I replied which seemed to get his attention and his eyes widened as he said.

"What?! Blackberry Cobbler??" 

"Yes; why? You had that before?" I asked.

"My mother made that! *sigh*...it was always delicious...I loved her cobbler...." He said looking like he was remembering.

"*giggle* Well I guess I may have to ask my mom if she could send you some" I replied smiling warmly.

"Thank you Twilight, that means alot" He responded with a grateful smile.

"Of course, I think you will like it, if it is anything like the one your mother makes; if my mom and yours met they could swap recipes" I suggested kindly.

"That would be wonderfully" Heart replied happily.

Bold Heart is so sweet!....He is such a warm-hearted individual, he is friendly, charming...*blush*, funny...*giggle*, good with foals! *sigh*....how could he have been single back home? I don't know about anypony else...but I would consider him...

"I may have eaten but may I sit with you guys?" I asked even though I could guess the answer.

"Why not?" Heart asked as he got up to get me a spot.

"Thank you Heart, *giggle* you are quite the gentle-stallion are you?" I asked coyly.

"I did mention it comes naturally" he said sitting back down.

"I remember, and that certainly caught Celestia's attention" I said with a smirk.

"Is that so?" He replied looking curious.

"Yep! In a way very noticeable..." I stated coyly.

"I am flattered, really" he said finishing off his dinner.

"Not as flattered as her, and if you keep it up she may repay your charm" I said wiggling my eyebrows; he looked at me and deadpanned which I laughed at causing him to laugh too, Spike's reaction was priceless! Dinner continued and soon dessert was served, I still sat watching as Spike and Heart eat. 

"This was quite the day!" Heart beamed as he finished eating.

"It has hasn't it?" I replied in agreement.

"I can only imagine how your parents are knowing they are going to be Grandparents" Heart said smiling.

"Oh they were happy! Mom was literally dancing at the news" I said joyfully.

"Aw!~....cute" Heart said eyes twinkling.

"I know...." I replied giggling.

"Any ideas on foal names?" Heart asked sipping a drink before offering the idea of having one myself, I lifted a hoof in decline and said.

"Yes, Shining said 'Melody' if a filly, 'Silver' if a colt" I stated.

"Those sound nice" "I will tell them you like the names too" 

"Thank you; best of luck to the couple in the coming months" 

"I shall send your regards" I said happily.

"Good" Heart replied then yawned and then said with a question.

"I am getting tired what is the time?" 

"It is....9:15" Spike said, 

"Oh my gosh! It is late!" I said alarmed.

"Really? How so?" Heart asked confused.

"Not for us, for Spike" I corrected.

"Oh alright" Heart acknowledged.

"Welp! Goodnight everypony!" Spike said toddling off.

"Night Spike!" Heart and I said.

"Night!" Spike called back as he left leaving Heart and I alone.

"SO.....read something?" I suggested; for the past days every evening Heart and I was up we would do some reading before bed and Heart much to my delight liked the idea so that was what we did...it seems like the best way to close a day.

"Sure, always enjoy it" Heart replied; I may like him even more...*blush*.

Bold Heart and I then began to read our respective books, we basically said nothing as we were going over what we chose which was fine because....*sigh* Heart looks handsome just focusing on his book...*deep blush* Oh what am I thinking?? *sigh*....this issue whether it or not is driving me nuts!! I wonder how am I going to ask him if he has the desire for a mare or not, what Armor and I discussed and what went on with Rarity was really gnawing at me.....oh what do I do??

*Me*

I just kept reading my book enjoying the silence when for some reason I decided to look at Twilight...but when I did I saw she seemed...distracted by something....it was a mere glance but I picked up a bit from it....what could be on her mind? Also...*sigh* Twilight was always pretty now that I think about it...she just looks....cute, she is a unique, intelligent, caring, funny, witty mare....*blush*....oh boy...what are you doing Edwards?....."Heart" rather....

*Twilight*

I am in a pickle...what do I say? Ask? Whatever?!....come on Twilight! He is your friend! Talk to him!....How I asked myself, just do it! He knows you, just ask! My inner self argued, this kept going until, "So...Heart?" I asked. 

"Yes?" He replied.

"I w-was...thinking....about something....the something you and Rarity discussed...you do not have to answer" I stated and the latter bit quickly, "But....what was it?...." I asked...hoping he takes the question well.

*Me*

It was a question I did not think she would ask, it came out of nowhere...but I thought...maybe you should tell her...'Go and see General Grant' in a sense....'Not yet!' Part of me argued, Why? I asked myself, because sooner or later the fact will get out, better face it then be put in an embarrassing situation and spilling it....besides...Twilight is your friend! You can trust her! Can I? YES!! My inner self ranted, *sigh*.....'I'd rather die a thousand deaths...'.

"Why do you ask this Twilight?" 

"Because it has become something that makes me curious for your welfare, and if I knew for sure I would feel better" Twilight answered.

"Well....I am not sure how to answer that question Twi, I think you know what it was but I will say that Rarity thought my heart was hurting...I told her it was none of her business..." I stated.

"That I remember...but was it true?....." Twilight asked looking bothered; this was it....tell or not tell?....Think fast...

"Well Twilight....give me time to answer that...." I responded coolly.

"Okay Heart, whenever you choose...it is just I worry, as your new friend I care for your well being as do those you befriended" she replied wholeheartedly.

"I understand that Twilight and I appreciate it" I replied kindly; the evening went on without any more words said, and it was fine...I had another day of work at S.A.A. tomorrow, so this would help me sleep well.

*Twilight* 

It was soon getting late and Heart stated he was getting tired enough and excused himself from the room to sleep.

"Night Twilight!" Heart said as he left.

"Goodnight Heart, see you for breakfast" I called to him as he left from view, now it was me....*sigh*...

"That went better than I thought it would" I said aloud as I made my way to my room; I am going to sleep well tonight that is for sure, after today rest is in order.

"I wonder how Heart has been sleeping?....He seems well rested, perhaps I am putting to much thought into this" I said aloud as I made it to my room.

"Wonder what tomorrow will hold? With Heart at Sweet Apple Acres, I will be at home unless Celestia or the Table has a mission for me...oh well!~ Figure it out tomorrow!" I said optimistically; "Tonight is for sleeping anyways...unless you're Luna.*giggle*".

*Me*

I entered my room and nothing sounded better than sleep....that talk with Twilight though got me going....sooner than later I will have no choice but to tell Twilight my answer, as much as I did not want to; boy did I not want to, but I guess it may be for the best, what harm could come? Rarity knows...her and Aloe back at the Spa.....*sigh*..."Maybe I put too much weight on this" I thought aloud, "Well, tomorrow perhaps I may tell Twilight...or talk with Rarity.....I owe her a talk I think...." I said getting comfortable, "After work if she is not busy I will drop in on her" I said last before settling into bed; soon I was out like a light.

~On my first day as a Royal Guard, I am beyond excited as I made my rounds; I pass fellow guards along my route and through halls, things made me feel...on top of the world..."Nothing can ruin this". I continue to make passes here and there, suddenly I run into Princess Luna! She from what I can tell looks like.....she was crying?...."Princess? What happened?" "I got some news" Luna said when then a smile tugged at her lips.....~oh she is happy....~ "What is the news?" I asked neutrally, "Cielo proposed to me!!" Luna chirped loudly nearly in her 'Canterlot voice', "Uh...really?" I asked subtly halfheartedly, "YES!! I cannot wait to tell Celestia!" Luna beamed hopping in place like a filly, "W-well congratulations Luna" I said with a small smile, "Many thanks Private Heart; I will be off now, thanks for hearing me out" "Anytime your Majesty" I replied seriously with a little softness; Luna then bolts off with joy....leaving me where I stood....."Damn......that is it then....it is all over...she is lost to you for good..." I said dejectedly, "So much for nothing ruining today" I said bitterly; I just continued to stand there, unable to move.....like my feet were weighed down, it was now the worst first day one could have.....meanwhile as I then shed a tear or few a figure out of sight watches, and she too....is shedding tears of her own...."I am sorry Bold Heart...truly I am..." she says to herself~ 

I awake the next day heading to the dining hall to eat a smile breakfast with Twilight and Spike. 

"Morning Twilight!" I called out when I found her.

"Morning Heart~" Twilight chirped happily.

"Sleep well?" she asked in addition.

"I did thanks for asking. ~Yeah right!~" I lied.

"That is good to kn-" Twilight was cut off mid-sentence when she looked at me.

"What?" I replied confused.

"You don't look like you slept well..." Twilight said slowly.

"How so?" I asked.

"You have slight bags under your eyes....also...did you cry?" Twilight asked looking concerned and startled.

"What makes you think that?" I asked secretly desperate to change the subject.

"The fur under your eyes is stained....you have a bad dream?" she asked compassionately; as sad as it is...I was hoping for this...

"I did...do not want to talk about it..." I replied, 

"Okay Heart...just wanting to help you....did Luna say anything?" she asked.

"No...did not see her...~not the real her...~" I said honestly.

"Oh okay....usually she talks with those having a nightmare...she must not think it is time to..." Twilight reasoned.

"Perhaps...~Or she was there but was too embarrassed to speak with me...~" I said while in thought.

"Well...I hope it goes away soon, I cannot see you not sleeping well.." Twilight said caringly.

"Thank you Twilight....well, I better be off, Aj's" I said finishing my small meal.

"Okay Heart, have a great day" Twilight said hugging me.

"Thank you Twilight" I said gratefully.

"See you Spike" I said as I left.

"Bye!~" Spike said happily; now I was off, and then a trip to Rarity's...after a bath, do not want to visit her smelling like work, Rarity has her standards...*laugh*. I was at Aj's shortly and upon arriving was greeted, then sent to work; my work was slow though....Applejack noticed and spoke.

"Yer runnin' a little slow today....what's up?" 

"Slept a little poor..." I answered.

"Aw, sorry about that Heart..." she said kindly. 

"Thank you Aj....I will try to work faster..." I said fighting to move quicker and buck trees harder.

"Whoa there Heart" Aj said putting a hoof on me.

"Work but don't hert yerself" 

"No really I can-" I was going to protest but was stopped again.

"Hold on there Heart, werk as fast as you can, and no faster...I don't want you to hert yerself" she said caringly.

"*sigh*Okay Aj" I relented, "Good; now to ease up I'll help ya" she said as she gave the tree next to me a firm buck.

"Thank you, I appreciate it" I said gratefully, 

"Any time sugarcube" she said in her soothing voice; soon we were back at it and still making good work and hauling a healthy load of apples for today, work went on smoothly then it was lunch and Applejack and I ate a hearty lunch, after that we worked some more...I closed my day at work at 3PM, Aj paid me for the day's work and thanked me for my effort, I was now off to Rarity's. My journey was the usual distance, and soon I was at Carousel Boutique; I then softly yet firmly tapped the door.

"Coming!~" Rarity sang as she made her way to the door then it opened.

"OH~ Hello Bold Heart dahrling!" Rarity chirped with a smile.

"Heloo Rarity, I believe I owed you a talk remember? About my 'feelings' for Luna?" I said calmly.

"Oh. Oh yes I remember, please; come in" Rarity kindly invited.

"Thank you Rarity, it probably will help to talk this over" I said gratefully.

"Of course Heart dear, I know how much this means to you...I feel you will benefit from talking about this" Rarity said sweetly as we made our way to her dining area.

"Well...to start-" I was about to speak my mind when Rarity interrupted saying.

"Wait a moment Heart, sorry but I was making tea, would you?..." she hinted at offering.

"I would love some" I said happily.

"Excellent! Just keep talking as I make our tea" Rarity said going about.

"I had a dream last night....a mixed dream...." I said somberly.

"Oh?~...what is a 'mixed' dream?" Rarity asked interested.

"As in a good mixed with a bad..." I answered.

"Oh...." she said sympathetically, "What happened?" Rarity asked in addition.

"I was on my first day as a Royal Guard, then as I went about my rounds, Luna approached me...." I stated.

"Really?....Luna visited you during this? How does this become sad?....." Rarity asked sounding confused.

"It is because it was not the real Luna....but part of the dream" I explained, 

"Oh okay, continue please; I have the tea ready" she said as she put the tray on the table.

"Thank you; what happened next was she approached me, but she was crying....only, she was not sad but extremely happy, Cielo proposed to her and she wanted to tell me since she knew me and saw me first, then she took off to tell her sister the news....leaving me where I stood...." I finished sadly.

"Ah.....I am sorry about that Heart sweetie, I can tell why this was a good dream gone bad...." Rarity said caringly.

"Thank you....now I face another issue....telling Twilight or not...." I said gravely, 

"Oooooh....okay then, well if you want my opinion Heart" Rarity said taking a sip of her tea.

"I feel I may have to hear this...." I said with resignation.

"You would be right Heart; now my opinion is you should tell her....if not all of us, at least the rest of us, the whole six of us meaning" Rarity said calmly and sagely.

"I see....funny...." I said while in thought and sipping my cup.

"What is funny?" Rarity asked perplexed.

"When you said that, I am tempted to do it and it sounds better than when I say it in my head...." I explained chuckling dryly.

"Well I guess all you needed then was a second opinion and conformation" Rarity reasoned.

"Perhaps.....and I think, now that is was mentioned twice....maybe Luna could have been there...why I may think that?....Unclear....if she was I can only imagine what she may have thought...Oh what must she be thinking of me now?..." I finished with a groan and a defeated sigh, Rarity thought for a moment then said.

"I would think she is letting you come to terms on your own Heart, letting you make peace with the idea of you not courting her; and as far as her evaluation/opinion of you: I would think she would think no less of you, and might think, 'I feel sorry for you, I know it must be hard but, I have a coltfriend, I love him, but this does not mean I consider you less a friend because of this, just know that I am happy and if he marries me, I will still keep you in my prayers that one day, the right mare will appear'" Rarity surmised.

It sounded great...too perfect in my opinion...but could it be that simple? How can Rarity know if Luna would be that way about this? Do not acknowledge the obvious ironic pun with that statement this is serious, but.....maybe, just maybe....

"How much do you know of Luna to make such a guess?" I asked incredulously.

"I do not claim to know her mind Heart, but often mares know mares like stallions know stallions...so it is a safe bet I predicted Luna's view and approach to this situation involving your feelings for her" Rarity stated wisely.

"I suppose....*sigh*...this is..." I said burying my face in my hooves.

"I know you're frustrated Heart, but all this was my advice, you can take it, or leave it" Rarity said bluntly.

"*sigh*.....well this helps me poorly...." I said conflictedly.

"I am sorry Heart but you wanted advice, I gave you some..." Rarity said furrowing her brow sipping more tea.

"I know.....*groan*...." 

"Well? Are you going deal with this or not?" Rarity asked curtly.

"I will....." I said in a resolved manner.

"Good! Now we're talking!" Rarity beamed.

"What have I to lose?" I asked.

"Nothing Heart, but your dignity if you put this off; once you are comfortable with us six knowing, things should be better for you" Rarity resolved.

"I guess...I mean Luna knows I liked her...but how much she may have a slight idea....Celestia I do not know if she knows" I said mulling things over.

"Well, then if she does not know we can tell her if needed...though I think this can stay with Twilight and the rest of us" Rarity suggested.

"Then I should tell Twilight when I get back to the castle?" I said questioningly.

"Yes Heart, tell her; it will help you....I will tell the others as soon as I can after you leave for Twilight's" Rarity stated.

"Okay Rarity, I will do it" I said a little more confidently.

"Good, I am glad you made this choice...because.... I might have done it for you without you knowing if you did not do it yourself" Rarity said blushing rubbing the back of her head.

"...Really?" I deadpanned.

"A habit of mine....*nervous laugh*" 

"I wonder where you got that from?" I asked a little amused.

"May have been Spike...." Rarity hinted obviously. 

"I see.....not too surprised" I deadpanned again. 

"It worked for Twilight" Rarity protested.

"Huh....not sure how to reply to that..." I said actually unsure.

"How about we drop the subject and enjoy our tea?" Rarity suggested.

"Sounds good" I agreed and then little was said as we sat quietly. I eventually left after thanking Rarity for the talk and also apologized for me smelling a little bad on account of not bathing before visiting her, soon I was on my way back "home" to Twilight's, bless her heart for taking me in and for her unique personality, I then was home and Spike got the door.

"Hey Heart!" Spike said cheerfully, 

"Heloo Spike, how was your day? Is Twilight home?" I asked kindly.

"My day went well thank you; Twilight is here" 

"Good, because I owe her an explanation as you heard at breakfast" I stated.

"Ah okay, I'll take you to her" Spike said dutifully.

"Thank you" I replied as we made our way to her.

"Twilight has been around here the whole day, neither Celestia nor Luna had anything for her...the magic table has been quiet too....." Spike listed off.

"Huh...I am sure Twilight would however want things to do?" I asked.

"A little, she does like so far doing nothing but would hope to do something soon" Spike explained.

"I see, well that sounds good that she is taking things easy" 

"True, Twilight likes to be busy too much sometimes, so a break for her helps" Spike said sounding relieved, 

"*chuckle* I can tell that her being busy would make you busy too am I right?" I asked amused.

"Tell me about it" Spike said causing us both to laugh, we arrived and soon Twilight acknowledged us.

"Hel-lo~ Heart, how was work? You came home late...." 

"I stopped by Rarity's before coming here" I answered honestly.

"Oh? What for?" Twilight asked cocking her head slightly.

"I had to talk with her about something" 

"About what?" Twilight asked.

"There is a reason I wanted to wait on telling you about my dream, Rarity and I were in the know of something involving me so I told her first about my dream" I explained.

"So now you decide you want to let me know?" Twilight said understandingly.

"Yes...sorry..." I said looking regretful.

"No; you talk to who you need to, and if it was Rarity then that is fine" protested kindly.

"Thank you; now...my dream" I said before explaining my dream, when I finished telling her my dream uninterrupted plus about Luna, Twilight looked at me surprised then spoke.

"Wow....I both can't believe it and had a feeling about this....you loved Luna?" 

"Yes...." I said defeated.

"I-I am sorry you got disappointed Heart, it must have been a blow to you to then have that dream...." 

"I know...I fear what my next one may be...." I said gravely. 

"And what may happen if Luna decides to see me then?...." I added, 

"I understand your fear Heart, and I see that this is serious to you, so what did Rarity say?" 

"She and I talked a little continuing what we talked about the day we had the Ponyville tour and we all were at Sugarcube Corner, she then said it would be best since Luna has some idea about me....and Celestia may know as well, that this stay a small thing and a small thing between you and the other five" I explained.

"Ah....I see, so just talk about this then keep it in mind but not bring it up huh?" Twilight summarized.

"About it really" I stated, "Very well Heart, that is what we'll do" Twilight resolved.

"Thank you for this Twilight...I am glad for this" I said with a warm smile.

"You're welcome" Twi said returning the smile with one of her own.

The day went on with first my after-work-shower, Twilight and I indulged in some socializing before dinner started and it was pleasant, but my mind was racing about earlier and it will not leave quickly or easy, my mind was all but at rest as things bounced in my skull; with that I was hoping dinner will distract me. As my mind went nuts Twilight seemed to notice this and then spoke.

"Heart? You okay?" she asked sounding worried.

"Just in thought" I replied as I sat with a book.

"No....you look worried not in thought" Twilight insisted.

"Is it that obvious?" I asked embarrassed.

"Yes Heart..." Twilight said putting her book down and looking at me compassionately.

"I cannot help it...I guess you get paranoid having somepony in your dreams when you are not used to having your mind 'invaded'..." I said honestly.

"I see, well I guess I can understand that....but know this Heart, Luna does not enter all dreams if you can believe that...she has a way of knowing what dreams she can or will enter; she has told me 'I have yet to enter a dream where I am not allowed or feel like I am unwelcome'" Twilight said crossing her hooves in front of her.

"Be as it may, I fear she stumbles on a dream that she may regret entering..." I said looking of to the side also crossing my hooves.

"I know Heart, but Luna is too experienced to do that" Twilight argued.

"If you say so....hate to prove you and Luna wrong, since I am not from here she may meet her match" I stated gravely.

"Well I guess it will be an education her both of us then" Twilight settled.

"Perhaps..." I said picking my book up and continued silent reading, Twilight too continued her reading and little was said as then Spike came and joined in soon the three of us were in silent reading whatever book we selected, I chose a book called "History of Equestria" trust me I know...saw that coming did you? Well you would be amazed by what happened here not mentioned in the show obviously, Equestria helped prevent a war resembling World War Two!! Also it mediated during a nation's civil war, forge alliances between once hostile countries, a whole list! This was an eye opener I will tell you, it was a great distraction once more the more I read on....

Dinner soon was being prepared and again it was delicious, I could not wait but I, and Spike had to wait *chuckle* good things come to those who wait. Soon dinner was served, and this is what was said.

"So Heart, I like the book you chose earlier" Twilight giggled.

"What?" I replied looking up to see her.

"Nothing, it just suits you so well and it is like me...." Twilight said smiling giddily.

"Uh-huh..." I replied simply.

"*giggle* I mean it Heart, and from the passion you showed for your country, it makes sense and I am that way about Equestria" Twilight explained.

"I see, well I thank you for that...and thank you for listening earlier today I knew you would but I was not sure what to expect" I said with gratitude.

"Of course, you are my friend, and friends of mine and my other friends I care for greatly" Twilight said with a heart tugging warmth and an equally warm smile.

"I got that officially, thank you again" I said smiling and taking a bite of food.

"Welcome..." Twilight quickly replied, dinner went on without words then we had a small dessert, Spike mentioned things he would do tomorrow while Twilight does whatever comes up and I am at Aj's, some had him with Rarity, figures....*laugh* I know the age gap is a bit much but I feel for the little fire drake, since he is no less hopeful than I when it came to impossible love.....except he has a far better chance than I do... Soon Spike went to bed and Twi and I did our reading-before-bed-routine, we read then off to bed; we said our "goodnight's" and we were asleep, that night began quick that is for sure, I was more tired than I thought, what came next though was unexpected. 

TO BE CONTINUED.....
> Chapter 14: Battle of Dream's field
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

			~* I was moving slowly...smoke hung like a pall as I moved on...looking to my sides men in Navy-blue and Sky-blue, we advanced slowly, as if we did not want to go out and take on the task before us..."Steady boys!! Steady!! A voice cries out but is barely hear through the roar and booms....and screams....screams of agony and suffering...we see stragglers falling back one caring another as they try to get away...one cries, "Don't go out there!! You'll catch Hell!!" 

We ignore him as we move on...I look again and see a cloth on a shaft, our colors! Those beautiful yet helpless colors, as we move on it waves for us, like a woman urging us onward, we do so...though it seems suicide to do so...I pity those in front for they will fall first...I being in the second rank will live...but for a short while...then I will be as weak as that flag, a target, exposed and unprotected...what am I doing here?... I move on, the sounds getting louder as my regiment advanced, "Dress on the Colors!! Keep your lines!!" the voice yells out again.

Then another voice cries, "There they are!!" Soon fire is being exchanged, we also heard, "Dress on that regiment!!" We did as we were told as we received fire and gave fire in return; men were struck by the score as we dressed on the left and then my File partner was struck, placing me in the front to fill the hole which I did and soon began firing; I fired shot after shot and amazingly I was not struck....even as slaughter happened around me I remained...I kept firing things still well we may turn their-~ I awake. 

I find myself placing my hoof on my head as I hyperventilate...I was both surprised, amazed, and startled by what I experienced..."That was intense...." I said aloud, soon after a bit I fell asleep once more. ~I am back in the fray, the heat was awful, all the while the world seemed to be exploding. I am still alive, yet I recall being struck....it made no sense...but I kept fighting...~ It is the next day and I headed for breakfast, after a morning shower I soon was with Twilight and Spike eating a small breakfast.

"Morning Heart, sleep we-...." Twilight halted mid-sentence once more.

"What? Do I look like I did not sleep well?" I asked with an unintentional bite to it.

"No...well just a little.....what was the dream this time?" Twilight asked not beating around the bush.

"*sigh*....one I would not call bad yet it was not as fun as I would have wanted" I replied honestly.

"And what might that be?" Twilight asked incredulously.

"I dreamed I was doing my hobby back home but for real..." I answered.

"Really? That would explain it" 

"Yes" I said then explained the action-y parts in detail.

"I then woke up once then back to sleep only to return to the battle as if I never left..." I elaborated.

"What woke you up during it?" 

"......I was shot in the head..." I said gravely after hesitating...Twilight's face grew a little pale and Spike was startled.

"Whoa dude...that is nasty! And scary...." Spike said rubbing his forehead wincing at the idea of being shot in the head.

"I am surprised...that was quite a dream Heart..." Twilight said seeming to look less pale.

"Yes, I wonder if that would be the dream Luna questions entering?" I said with a dark chuckle, Twilight chuckled a little dryly in response.

"Sorry for disturbing you Twi" I said genuinely.

"Well I asked so I got an answer...a scary one..." Twilight said gaining her composure.

"Yes but in some way one of my most exciting dreams I ever had, I loved my hobby, I have been waiting to have a dream like that...minus the dying" I said half enthusiastically.

"I did not say there was something wrong about it...minus yes you dying...it sounded very action packed" Twilight said encouragingly.

"It does! Wow are they really like that? Your hobby?" Spike asked energetically.

"Usually, I often think so...some could use some help...others....would not change a bit...in fact I would love to do it again or better...have it recorded and watch it again." 

"Wow...sounds fun" Spike said with a smile before eating again.

"Rainbow was right...it sounds like a treat to see someday..." Twilight said.

"At least you had a better dream and sleep than before" Twilight added comfortingly.

"I did....and it is good to talk about dreams now" 

"I promised I'd listen did I?" Twilight said with a smile.

"You did" I said smiling also, soon I finished breakfast and was off to work. I arrive on time and began work after Aj check me to see how I was today because of yesterday, I told her I slept better and feel ready to work, this satisfied her and work began; lunch came and we sat to eat a little, we took a bit so to digest and during that we talked a little such as how are things, life with Twilight, small talk; it was then Applejack said.

"Rarity told us what was up with you....the issue you had.." Aj said seeming to be embarrassed by mentioning it.

"I still have an issue but....I am dealing with it....I am dealing with it..." I said looking conflicted.

"Are you?...." Aj asked looking unconvinced.

"To be honest....I do not know....it will take a bit to be sure...." I said seeming to look lost and unsure....like a child in a market place unsure if it will find it's parent, Applejack then placed a hoof on my shoulder giving me a look that mushed hearts and said.

"We're yer friends, we'll look out for you...always" Aj said smiling pulling me into a half-hug.

"Appreciate it..." I said smiling gratefully, soon we were at work again and things picked up...soon we did a fine day's work and I was given word that my pay will be at the end of the week, good thing I have been working; now I have a pile of Bits sent aside and with my first day as a Guard next week, things will put my life in order...at least my financial life that is.

I headed home again...funny how things have been repetitive....not that I did not mind but a difference in routine was in order, so I headed to the spa and was greeted by Lotus right off.

"Bold Heart!" Lotus chirped with a smile.

"Heloo Lotus, how are you?" 

"I am vell thank you; you?" she said as she gave me a light hug.

"Got off work at Applejack's farm" I replied.

"I see, and smell too" Lotus said covering her nose playfully.

"Is it that bad?" I asked half concerned.

"A little...but I don't mind; but if you need to..." Lotus said pointing at the bath.

"I planned on it" I said moving into the spa.

"By the way you are not alone in knowing my 'secret' Lotus" I said casually.

"Really?" Lotus asked raising an eyebrow.

"Yes; after a talk over, I decided to let Twilight and the rest of her friends know...which now feels a little better actually..." I said believing what I said.

"That is gud to hear Heart; I have something to share too" Lotus said with a glowing smile.

"What is it?" I asked looking curious.

"I met somepony...*giggles*" 

"Really?? Wow Lotus that is great!" I replied joyfully.

"Thank you. His name is 'Bronze Star'" Lotus said with a chortle.

"Ah, what is he? Earth? Pegasi? Unicorn?" 

"He is Pegasi, a handsome, kind, loving, strong one..." Lotus said almost drooling.

"Okay Lotus...*chuckle* I get it...." I said slightly embarrassed.

"Sorry..." Lotus apologized blushing rubbing her leg in embarrassment.

"That is okay...I may act in a similar way if I find a mare someday...~If you do...~" I said while in thought, we arrived at the bath and soon the tub's relaxing scents, soaps, and warmth were doing their job removing the "stress" of the day; it was heavenly... After a while at the spa I left and was about to pay the bill when Lotus said it was on the house, I gave her a little something nonetheless for her help; I soon headed to Sugarcube Corner for a little snack, upon entering I was greeted by Pinkie.

"Hiya Heart!" the pink mare chirped with an adorable squeak.

"Heloo Pinkie, how are you?" I asked gaining Pinkie's infectious smile.

"Oh just a little busy~" Pinkie seemed to sing.

"Ah, I came here for a little bite" I explained entering.

"What are ya cravin?" 

"Give me a moment Pinkie" I said chuckling.

"Alrighty!~" Pinkie said sitting like she will be waiting for a while, after a bit I chose my treat and Pinkie had it out and I gave her the Bits, found a stool, then enjoyed it. As I sat there eating Pinkie spoke up.

"Rarity came by today earlier" Pinkie said with a soft expression.

"Aj told me she talked with all of you" I said relaxing.

"Yeah...she said you were really really sad about Luna..." Pinkie said looking sympathetic.

"I was...and it may be a while before it changes" I said finishing my treat.

"Well...things take time and even I know that things take time, I mean I make cakes, cookies, cupcakes and stuff so I know that if you do not wait you get just doughy mush instead of what you are baking" Pinkie reasoned.

"That makes perfect sense Pinkie, I agree with that...but imagine something going wrong during the baking? That is what I am facing" I said countering, 

"I know relationships are not like baking and you don't just start over...but that is part of it at times too..." Pinkie stated.

"That....is what I am trying to make peace with...and understand..." I said causing suddenly a tear to drop in which I wipe away on reflex.

"I see....sorry about that, don't cry..." Pinkie asked softly, hoofing me a tissue.

"Thank you Pinkie..I know you and everypony else are trying to help...I am not trying to reject it..." I said in a heartfelt way.

"You're welcome Heart, and we know..." Pinkie said hugging me.

"I'll get you another treat, it's on me" Pinkie said leaving to the case to fetch another sweet and returned just as fast.

"Many thanks" I said as I nibbled the treat.

"Thought it would help" Pinkie said with her soft smile. 

"It does" I said smiling in return, I ate the treat slowly, enjoying the flavor and work put into it; as I ate Pinkie then asked.

"Sooo....what'cha doing today?" asking in a returning smile.

"Breaking routine and doing some small stuff before heading, 'home' to relax the rest of the day before dinner" I stated with a smile.

"Hey that sounds fun" Pinkie said genuinely.

"Thank you, it perhaps was what I needed to help lift my spirits" I said mulling over if it was doing just that.

"That sounds good, would you mind if somepony joined you?" Pinkie asked with a hopeful glint in her eye.

"Depends...are you working though?" I asked.

"I am, but my shift ends in 5 minutes" Pinkie replied.

"I can wait five minutes" I said with a friendly smile.

"*squee* I can't wait!" Pinkie said bouncing back into the kitchen, ha....that mare. Soon five minutes came and went and soon Pinkie and I left to do whatever my "schedule" planned out.

"Where to?" Pinkie asked bouncing like Pepe-Le Pew in step with me.

"I suppose I was going to meet with the rest of you...and talk about what Rarity told you; I met with Aj, you, now I have to find Rainbow, then if not instead see Fluttershy then Rainbow; since Twilight, and Rarity already know" I rattled off.

"Sounds like a plan!" Pinkie said.

"Indeed it does". Soon we reached Fluttershy's instead, thinking that we could find Rainbow another time; we arrived at Fluttershy's cottage I was greeted in an unexpected but yet predictable fashion in which Fluttershy had me in a hug the moment she saw me, after she calmed down she spoke.

"Rarity t-told m-me about you a-and Luna..." she said half sobbing.

"I knew she would...she told me she would tell you all...I can imagine what you have to say" I said patting her shoulders.

"*sniffle* Other than I wish I could do something?" Fluttershy said wiping tears away.

"Do not take this the wrong way but, there is nothing you can do but be a good friend for me...help me when help is needed" I said softly, Fluttershy thought for a moment, then spoke.

"Oh...-o-okay..." she said in her signature soft tone.

"May we come in for a moment?" I asked kindly.

"Sure, please come in...Discord and I were about to have tea" she said more cheerfully; wait...did she say?....

"Oh-ha-ha-hello!~" Discord chortled as I entered, oh boy the Spirit of Chaos himself here...I may be in for something, "Well-well-well, if it isn't Mr. Lonely Heart" Discord teased with a mock-sad expression while flicking my bottom lip so that it quivered like his.

"Heloo Discord, pleasant to meet you..." I said maintaining my demeanor, this was almost a challenge to do...since even Celestia had a hard time keeping cool...how would I fair better? 

"Oh poo! Put on a smile will you? You remind me of Celestia" he said with a scowl.

"Do I?" I retorted.

"Yes...why can't anypony just be nice to me?" Discord asked as if he were insulted.

"I am being nice Discord, but you were being a little rude..." I stated bluntly.

"He's right...calling him 'Lonely Heart'" Fluttershy remarked.

"What?...I was making an observation" Discord protested.

"A rude observation" Fluttershy snapped, huh...I know someone back home who would be officially loving Fluttershy for her honesty....

"*groans* I suppose that was a little insensitive..." Discord remarked in a relenting tone, "Sorry Bold Heart" 

"Apology accepted" I said kindly; we then had a pleasant visit and then we left.

It was funny really.....I was not even trying...and yet, there I was on my back, with Rainbow on me after she tackled me....

"Uh...hi Rainbow....why did you tackle me?..." I asked looking extremely confused and feeling awkward only to have Pinkie giggling.

"You looked like you needed it...it made you feel better right?" Rainbow said with a smirk, 

"It made me startled...." I said honestly.

"Can you get off me please?" I said addition feeling awkward even more as she stood on me.

"Sure dude..." she said stepping off and to my right as I sat up to stand rubbing my chest.

"Thank you.....so Rarity's news about me got to you right?" I said now on my hooves.

"Yep! Look dude...you are a nice guy, but life has its nutty moments, it throws stuff at you; you gotta roll with the punches ya know?" Rainbow said matter of factually.

"I guess I heard that before....and suppose that is the way to see things" I said while in thought.

"Well believe it! It's true" RD said bluntly yet with a kindness to her tone.

"Rainbow...I know what you are trying to say and do...but I will bet you have had things that you do not just resolve quickly am I right?" I asked in reply.

"Well.....yeah but...." 

"But nothing RD..." I interrupted.

"The point is there are some things you cannot resolve instantly....some things, (my issue), take a longer time to deal with...especially when it comes to something you love.....say 'The Wonderbolts', what if you finally joined (which I know is your dream), but you were told they were disbanding soon, forever?" I stated rationally.

Rainbow stood there in thought...she was stuck....I think I drove my point home and it hit hard, "Wow....didn't think of it that way....." she said looking a little guilty.

"Now you know how I feel about my desire to have courted Luna when I met her now that she and this world is real....how you know the disappointment and heartbreak this caused me...." I said with a somber expression and tone, Pinkie stood there and then said.

"Dude....that's deep..." in an intentional hippy tone...ha, that is still funny her randomness...

"Thank you Pinkie" I said a little more cheerful tone.

"You're welcome!~" Pinkie chirped cheerfully.

"Well dude...I was trying to help..." RD said rubbing the back of her head.

"I know Rainbow...I understand your attempt" I said giving her a hug.

"Thanks dude..." she said blushing.

"Welcome Rainbow" I said warmly; eventually we moved on again and after a while and a small snack at Ponyville's Cafe, Pinkie walked with me to Twilight's and we parted ways.

I was home again, and after a small walk found Twilight reading again; as I walked up she greeted me.

"Hello Heart" 

"Heloo Twilight, have a good day? Mine was good, I spoke to your friends and had a small outing with Pinkie" I stated as I drew in for a hug.

"Oh, that sounds good, what did you and Pinkie do on your outing?" 

"I went to the spa, ate at a cafe with Pinkie after talking with your friends a bit then her" I said sitting across from her.

"Oh that sounds fun, I am glad you did that...you look refreshed" she said complimentary.

"I feel refreshed, after working at Apple Acres a soothing moment at the spa does the trick" I said grabbing a book, it was a different book this time...just some novel that caught my attention, soon we were reading again and little was said during that. After a while more dinner was beginning and we heard what Spike did as well the small bits of what Twi and I did while eating, things are lovely in my new life....maybe I may be lucky to have the life I planned if I wait it out...but we shall see how it plays out.... Soon it is bedtime and once in bed I thought about the past days....and soon this Thursday....my first shift as a Guard.....OH and also I forgot...apparently there is 'The Gala' again in August....that should be an interesting thing for me to experience...."Sounds like things are moving forward at last....hopefully" I said aloud before drifting off.

~I am in the thick of it....the same engagement, we are though, gaining ground.....our enemy being driven back; it seems we shall carry the day! Things are going well, I think this day is ours.....but then screaming comes another regiment of our enemy...Reinforcements?!?! We are being driven back and it broke our spirit to see that long grey line hold and drive us back killing more of us along the way, I was angered by the sight, it boiled as well as chilled my blood as we fell back....now I did not want to be here....I wanted to be anywhere but here....but we soon went into a route as my regiment ran away...our officer tried to organize us but it seemed in vain, nothing may get these boys to halt and return fire...suddenly I was hit....I rolled on the ground after being hit in the side....my world went dark.....~ I awake again....placing my hoof on my side I laid there thinking about the dream..."What is going on?" I thought aloud....before I eventually drifted off again....

*****Canterlot Castle: Yesterday morning: Celestia*****

I was eating breakfast and feeling...as you knew...uncertain.....I felt like I could use a day of good news, but as I ate I felt a little better for it was my favorite this morning, Strawberry Pancakes.....not sure why the chefs thought I like banana though....but I didn't complain, never do I ever....I was enjoying my meal when Luna entered, 

"Hello Luna!~" I chirped happily, "How are you this-...." I was cut off by what I saw...Luna looked terrible...she looked like she had a sad dream..."Luna?" I asked gently tapping her only for her to just look at me with a worn, depressed expression.

"What happened Luna?" I asked feeling more uneasy.

"I looked into Bold Heart's dream...I suddenly wish I hadn't....." Luna said somberly.

"Why?...." I asked.

"I feel I have done more damage to Heart's feelings than I originally thought......" Luna said looking hurt, 

"Why is that? What happened?" I asked rubbing Luna's back tenderly.

"Bold Heart was on his first day as a Guard, I meaning a dream me approached him in tears of joy because Cielo proposed to me...he was supportive but the moment I the dream me left to tell the dream you, he stated his first day as a Guard was ruined...and that he lost me forever....." Luna said looking away with a wince, I sat for a moment to process what I heard....this was graver news than I was prepared for...part of me was happy that Heart is slowly making peace with his crush, but the other part was hurt by the image of Heart in such anguish over the idea that Luna will never be his....

"*sigh* I am sorry Luna, truly I am....I only hope things do not get worse for Heart; I would recommend speaking to him before things do get worse...it may do him some good" I suggested kindly.

"I will sister, tomorrow night I shall talk with him" Luna said confidently.

"Excellent! Now, let us have a good breakfast and start our day" I said cheerfully.

"Good idea Tia...perhaps a good meal is what I shall need right now" Luna agreed before choosing her items then eating.

*****Canterlot Castle: Earlier that morning: Celestia*****

I was eating breakfast and feeling...as you knew...uncertain.....I felt like I could use a day of good news, but as I ate I felt a little better for it was my favorite this morning, Strawberry Pancakes.....still not sure why the chefs thought I like banana though....but I didn't complain, never do I ever....I was enjoying my meal when Luna entered.

"Hello Luna!~" I chirped happily, "How are you this-...." I was cut off by what I saw...Luna looked terrible...she looked like she herself had a nightmare...

"What's wrong Lulu?..." I asked caringly, Luna said nothing as she slugged along until she sat next to me and just stared off in a horrified daze...

"Luna?" I asked gently tapping her only for her to startle me by jumping me at my touch.

"Sorry....sister....I looked into Bold Heart's dream again so to talk with him...I suddenly think I shouldn't visit him anymore....." Luna said looking traumatized.

"Why is that? What happened this time?" I asked rubbing Luna's back tenderly.

"You recall the hobby he said he had? The one involving his country's civil war?" Luna said slowly.

"Yes?" I said confused.

"I saw it for myself only....it was real...as in real death, real carnage, and real suffering....but I knew it was a dream...but it was so....real....like I was watching it happen in real life...." Luna said gravely.

I mulled over on this, I have a bad feeling that Heart may have found a way to compensate for getting over Luna....a dark, violent, and near self-destructive way to do it...disguised by a passion he loves to hide his grief over losing the chance to find his other desire....love.

"I worry Luna...what you told me is unsettling, I know you were frightened by what you saw....but you must try to speak with him....for I fear what may happen if this gets out of hoof...." I said with grave seriousness.

"I know I should....but I for the first time...do not want to....I am afraid of what I may see next....." Luna said now rocking a little holding her traumatized expression.

"I know Luna...I know..." I said holding her in a hug.

~I am lying there....I am unable to move...I look my side, blood streaming out....I am in pain and yet I feel numb, Darkness, seemed to be creeping in and out....I see the musket smoked out sky, then Darkness again, I am unsure how much time passed...but now I am in and out of conscientiousness...then suddenly the distant sounds of 19th century war fade, and a new sound emerges....not the cries of wounded, but a voice.....a woman's voice....I at the moment could not place it, but it grew clearer as the second dragged, I heard steps approaching me and the woman's voice speaks again...it was my name....but...wait...'Bold Heart'?.....who is 'Bold Heart'?......~ 

"Bold Heart?....Jesse?" the voice calls softly, it was Luna! Finally, after all this time, the lunar princess herself, stands before me....

"L-Luna?..." I said weakly.

"What is happening here? You aren't really wounded are you?" Luna asked me looking sage like as she would.

"Well I guess I am not anymore..." I said getting up with the wound I had now gone and my uniform undamaged.

"Quite the dreams you are having..." Luna said in a generalizing tone.

"I had I feeling you have been spying all this time..." I said not in a condescending tone, but a confirmatory one.

"I might have been" Luna said calmly, "I have also been a little hesitant on speaking with you until now....I for that apologize....I usually know the perfect time to intervene but with you I have made an error; I was also slow to speak because I was....frightened by your most recent dream....not only the one where you were shot in the head, but......*sigh*...the one where I told you of Cielo's proposal...I wasn't sure if I should have spoken to you....but now I realized....I should have...." Luna stated, finishing with a guilty expression.

"I am most sorry Bold Heart, Jesse..." Luna said pulling me into a tight hug, one that would be felt as one of comfort before backing off.

"Even though I have been....'spying' on you since your first dream I must say...this is the real you?..." Luna asked in a tone that would have a man blush or woman if a male spoke in the same way while scanning me up and down.

"I am not much to look at...." I said dismissively.

"Oh? I say on the contrary, you look....handsome..." Luna cooed caringly.

"I guess I liked to think that...and hear that from somebody or..somepony else....but I guess I am hard to convince on that...." I said looking at the ground while gripping my rifle almost like a crutch leaning on it a little.

"So....this is the weapon you spoke of?..." Luna said eyeing the rifle in my grip.

"Ah yes....this is the equipage of my fellow soldiers of the era, 'The 1861 Springfield', made in the 'Springfield Armory' in 1861, fires a 580ths of an inch around lead slug as mentioned before, range capable: 650 yds" I rattled off.

"I see..." Luna said dreading to change the subject.

"...At any rate....I know it will be an uneasy task to get over your affections for me...and I understand as I said....but I say this and I say this out of love as a dearest friend would....I ask you drop these feelings...in order to be a Guard over us you must end your infatuation with me as soon as possible....otherwise you can not be trusted with our safety..."

"I can not have you caring only for me if you are say charged with protecting Cielo should he actually propose to me one day or be accompanied on a task that is dangerous....granted you would protect my sister, Blueblood, Twilight, or anypony you care for...but it must be out of duty first and emotion second and nothing else in between, understood?" Luna said firmly and yet....with softness...as if she were talking to a child, hoping not to anger or hurt emotionally it...this case, me....

"Yes...your Majesty..." I said saluting the way a soldier would with the rifle's butt on the ground coupled with a stern yet hurt face, though I did not acknowledge it right away...Luna I could tell saw very clearly it hurt me to follow that order and respond with professional protocol...of which Luna responded to my professionalism with a hurt look of her own and she...hugged me...in such a way as one would to apologize for wronging someone.....

"I am sorry Heart...so, so, sorry...." she wept softly as if fighting her sadness...barely holding the composure she was trying to hold; I in reply to this did something that I could feel hurt Luna more when I broke the hug by almost pushing her off me but was more pulling myself from her before turning my back to her and replied.

"Don't....just...don't...it will only make it harder and worse for me....I get the message...from now on, consider yourself the furthest thing from my heart....." I said with an unintentional coldness and bite to it.

"That is not what I meant for you to do!" Luna voice-cracked.

"Well...that is I am saying and mean it fully...you are of no romantic value to me anymore...I therefore cut affectionate ties with you..." I said as if making a decree.

There was silence after that....followed then by gasps of air...what I saw looking over my shoulder would break hearts...Luna with a wide stance and wings unfurled looked at me eyes wide...jaw open and lip quivering...tears began to stream from her eyes as she stared in shock, eventually her eyes slid half open with tears pooling in her sockets...her stance narrowed, and wings dropped with the tips on the ground and her tail was between her legs, her jaw slammed shut, teeth showing in her frown all forming an expression of what could call pure, raw, uncensored hurt.

She even had her front leg lifted in emotional pain as if trying to hold her heart while her hoof dangled, her pupils large as she looked like she had her heart shattered....

"P-p-please....don't...." she squeaked at last, I turned my head to face forward with my back to her fully.

"Leave" I ordered softly yet coldly, Luna looked terrible...as she struggled to speak her thoughts...

"Jesse....H-Heart...." she squeaked again.

"I said....leave.." I ordered a little firmer.

"I will not!" Luna said slightly stronger.

"Fine!" I said in a low growl, 

"I will just end this dream..." I said sitting down to remove my right shoe, then only to stand and upon standing, lift my foot to cock my rifle, I then placed a cap upon the gun and stood back up, then..... I find myself staring at the ceiling of my room...heart pounding as my face was warm with anger...

"Well Luna...it is official, I shall love you...no more!" I said quietly aloud....

TO BE CONTINUED.
> Chapter 15: A house not just divided
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

		I awake the next day...boy am I in a foul mood....last night's events will most likely cause me grief later if not during breakfast....I feel that as I speak Luna is blubbering her account of visiting my dream....and how Celestia may grill me in an angry letter damning me for upsetting Luna and treating her the way I did, but now I was more interested in what this Tuesday had in store...though I was less than jovial. I came to breakfast when I again had Twilight ask how I slept...I lied about last night and she bought it...thankfully...I was in no mood to explain the events that upset last night's sleep. Soon I was off to work again at Apple Acres again and I worked hard despite being heavily distracted by my anger about last night...things seem to be going well though Aj looked at me weird when I bucked trees and she even said something which was.

"Whoa thare partner...just kick the tree don't try to knock it over..." she said in a calming tone.

"Sorry....just fighting of sleep..." I lied.

"Oh, okay thare Heart...just take it easy okay?" 

"Sure thing Aj" I said kindly, soon we I continued without incidence...a close call. Soon I left work and headed off....I headed to the spa to perhaps remove the stress that was bothering me....upon arriving Lotus greeted me again and she was cheerful.

"Hello Bold Heartz" she cooed happily.

"Oh heloo Lotus..." I said sounding tired yet in thought.

"Long day?" she asked kindly.

"Yes it has..." I said honestly.

"Well then, let us take of dat" Lotus said confidently as she lead me into the spa.

"First a massage" she said firstly as I got atop the bed.

"Now...as I work, anyzing you wish to talk about?" she asked as her hooves did there magic.

"Well...another thing to keep between us until further notice..." I said in a soft tone.

"Oh? What iz dat?" she asked curiously.

"*sigh*...you know how Luna visits ponies who have bad dreams?" I asked rhetorically.

"Yes?...Did she visit you?"

"She did...only...our meet was not so pleasant...." 

"What!?..." she asked in a high whisper.

"Yes...apparently she felt I was not taking the concept of her having a coltfriend well and she then wanted to tell me to get over it and not let this denial or rather slow acceptance to get to me...I however did not receive the order well and got bitter and cold about it and as a result....I spurned her harshly....as in I accepted I could never date her and took it perhaps...too far..." 

"Oh my......how did you take it to far?" Lotus asked.

"I said I will no longer have a place for her in my heart and that....*sigh*....she had no more romantic value to me and because of that, I all but decided to....." I stalled while speaking.

"Decided to do...what?..." she asked concernedly.

"*sigh*....I all but basically gave her the cold shoulder and said something to the effect of, 'I do not want anything to do with you'" I said angrily yet with guilt resulting in Lotus gasping.

"You did what!?" she asked in shock.

"I got angry at Luna and said I will not love her romantically...what more is there?..." I asked almost irritated in tone.

"Oh...sorry...but that is awful...to talk that way to the Princess?" she said sounding like she thought I committed treason.

"I was angry...I had my heart shattered...I did not care! I did care that she was upset at my sadness....or that I made her cry...." I said in a huff.

"YOU MADE LUNA CRY???" she said really sounding scared.

"Yes, I did....but she hurt me!" I said angrily.

"How did she hurt you?....She had a coltfriend...you didn't know, so it's all fair...she is innocent..." Lotus reasoned sternly, I was internally livid...steaming even...I was an inferno of rage on the inside.....she was right...but she did not know that I was not from Equestria...or Equus for that matter!! That only made it worse....much worse......

"Be-as-it-may.....it does not matter.....any further understanding of love, romance, and general intimacy is dead....I do not know what love is anymore..." I said seething yet in a heavily defeated tone in which I also just went limp on the bed...like I died right there.

As I lay there tears streamed from my eyes....this is where now...it was Lotus' turn to comfort me like I did for her when we met.

"Don't do zat...." she said firmly as she rested her head on mine rubbing my back, 

"Don't qvit on love Bold Heart, anyzing but dat..." she said in a half order half beg.

"Why?..." I asked predicting an answer I would not believe though I wanted to.

"Because love....is a precious and valuable things....priceless compared to anyzing in Equus, it is a sacred and blessed thing...." Lotus said like in a speech.

"Uh huh...consider me too poor to get it...." I said bitterly.

"How so?..." she asked in a challenging way.

"I had an experience...I will not go into details....but it did not go well...." I said slowly recovering from my anger.

"Uh huh....so because of one experience you judge yourself because of it?" she asked incredulously.

"Yes...because in all honesty....love is more trouble to me than it is worth....I do not want the stress and pain anymore....no more...." I said in a hurting tone.

"I thought the same Heart...then I met Bronze...give it time..." she said caringly.

"No promises...." I said.

"Zat is better than notzing" she said warmly, 

"Sure..." I said softly; soon the session ended and I paid her for the job, I then sat in the bathing tub there for a bit....I just sat in thought....I felt like I did not want to move....I then eventually left and wandered aimlessly in all honesty...I had no idea where I was going, and I almost did not care either...talk about lost....I was just....lost.

I am not sure how long I wandered but I soon found myself back at....Rarity's...I for some reason found myself at Rarity's boutique...I guess...it was because...I then knocked on her door.

"Coming!~" she sang as she did, the door soon opened. 

"Ah! Bolt Heart dahrling!" she cooed, "How are you toda-?...." she paused mid-sentence and then said.

"Uh...Heart dear...you alright?" she asked.

"*sniffle* No....." I nearly sobbed.

"Oh~...what is the matter dear? Please come in..." she invited comfortingly, I simply entered her house and fell on the nearest furniture.

"What happen darling?" she asked caringly, I paused for a bit...but before I could speak Rarity spoke first.

"Before you speak just calm down...let me get you something" she stated before leaving for a bit leaving me where I was, soon she came back with some tea and offered it, I declined and she sat down.

"Okay darling, calm down...it's alright sweetie...now tell me what's wrong" she said calmly and compassionately, I paused again then after shudder-sighing said weeping.

"I am dying Rarity...." 

"How so?...." she asked intently though I knew she was not taking what I said literally.

"I am dying...from grief...and heartbreak..." I croaked in pain with tears free falling from my eyes.

"Oh Heart sweetie...." she said caringly getting up to sit with me then began to stroke me from my head to my middle-back and repeated, 

"What did you dream about now?..." she asked in a motherly tone.

"I had a dream...then Luna visited me...I was told by her to give up on my feelings for her and I snapped....snapped by giving her the cold-shoulder and said something to the effect of 'I want nothing to do with you'" I said sobbing.

"Oh dear...." she said sounding concerned.

"I think Celestia will have my head....and Luna may let me have it as well" I wept.

"I am not sure about that darling..." she said soothing.

"How do you know?" I asked in retort.

"We know them remember?...I am sure they would be understanding..." Rarity reasoned.

"I made Luna cry Rarity..." I deadpanned.

"You...what???" she asked surprised.

"You heard me..." I simply said staring out.

"Oh dear...I see why you are concerned..." she said nervously.

"What happened to knowing the Princesses??" I asked bluntly.

"We do...and I know it may seem hard to believe but, I assure you Celestia & Luna will believe and understand your anger...despite Luna being upset-ted..." Rarity said assuringly, though I was hard pressed to believe it.

"If wrong, consequences be damned will you come to my grave and visit?" I said in a pleading tone.

"I promise...." she swore.

"Good....and....thank you again Rarity..." I said with a grateful smile.

"You're welcome Heart dear" Rarity said smiling in return.

"Now what? You do have an idea why I came to you and not Twilight right?" I asked, Rarity giggled slightly then answered.

"Yes Heart, I know very well why you visited me" she said knowingly.

"You were wise to, for I think Twilight would if I know her she would've wrote to Celestia begging her not to punish you and she also may have chewed you out herself about it...." she joked dryly in which I chuckled dryly in reply.

"She would have will she?...." I said dryly.

"Yes...she may still do just that...which is why I will join you on your return home" Rarity said comfortingly.

"Thank you Rarity, I would love that..." 

"Of course! I am your friend too.." she said patting me on my back while I still laid down.

"I know...and I am grateful for it" I said warmly as I sat up and hugged her.

We soon left but not until I helped myself to some tea after-all...and it helped alot, soon we arrived and Twilight answered.

"Heart-....Rarity?" Twilight replied looking perplexed, 

"Hello Twilight dear, I came over so that Heart and I can speak with you" Rarity chimed as she moved a little in front of me.

"What is it? Another dream?....*sigh* You lied to me this morning, didn't you?" Twilight asked sounding disappointed.

"*sigh* Yes...I did...I have a reason" I said firmly.

"You had better..." Twilight retorted not harshly but in a tone one would make when asking honesty out of love not accusation.

"I do....let us get inside first" I suggested in which Twilight agreed and we entered.

"I will tell you in the 'Living room'" I said as we walked.

"Very well" Twilight agreed though she sounded a little annoyed, we soon reached our destination and after getting comfortable I spoke my dream...there were moments Rarity had to step in, then after it was done Twilight sat for a moment and then spoke saying.

"You do know you will have to talk about this with the Princesses sooner or later...I know you did with Luna Heart...but you know you cannot do this...I know you are hurt, but you cannot leave Luna like that after a talk like that....that is not how friends act...." Twilight said in a tone one would use for a child.

"Have you had your heart broken Twilight?...Had love blow up in your face before it even gave you a chance?" I asked in a low tone.

"No, I have not" Twilight answered quickly.

"Then how would you know what it is like?....To have a chance at love practically thrown at you, only for that hope to die before it even gains traction?!" I snapped.

"Easy darling...you know we get it.....especially me..." Rarity said trying to calm me down.

"I know Rarity...I know....*sigh*....can you break the tension by writing Celestia and/or Luna first Twilight?..." I asked sounding a little timid.

"*sigh*....Yes, I will do that" Twilight said relenting.

"Thank you..." I said sounding relieved.

"Of course Heart..." Twilight replied sounding softer in her tone, she then began to write her letter...within a short while she had the letter sent with a spell she learned from Celestia, one of which she said she only uses when Spike was not around...naturally, Spike was on a play-date with Sweetie Bell today. With in a short time a letter was sent back, it came from Celestia.....

*****Canterlot: This morning: Celestia*****

I was eating breakfast, this time a bowl of warm Oatmeal, another good meal choice for morning, as I ate Luna entered, "Hello Luna how did you-..." my words died in my mouth as I looked upon my sister...she looked terrible....she had her mane in knots and her eyes were red and puffy, she looked like she had been upset, she even had bags under eyes....

"Luna?...What happened??" I asked concerned...I prayed that it was not something awful...I asked my sister to put Bold Heart's mind at ease and to gently bring him down from his disappointment of not being able to court her....I prayed that this did not turn ugly, I may not have that prayer answered.

"Tia....*sniffle*" Luna croaked.

"What happened??" I asked sounding alarmed.

"B-b-..." she sputtered, 

"Bold Heart?..." I asked sounding a mix between upset and another feeling I cannot describe...

"Y-yes..." Luna squeaked, "H-he was...so...angry...so hurt...so....b-bitter...." Luna said weakly, though I could hear it loud and clear.

"Is that so?...." I said calmly though I was actually disappointed and concerned.

"Yes...I can still hear his voice...the words he said....and...t-the anger in his tone..." Luna said as in a disturbed tone.

"I see....well I hope he changes his attitude...for this kind of behavior is not tolerated in the Guard..." I stated bluntly.

"I know that sister...I shared a similar stance on this as well...he was...less than graceful..." Luna said more strongly.

"Let me tell you what happened" Luna said in addition, Luna did as she said and upon finishing left me stunned, "It is worse than I thought....to say he is depressed is an understatement.....angry would be putting it lightly....I need to be tactful here with him" I said.

Luna I feel she may have not been as tactful as I thought she would be...she was always straightforward...too much so at times, 

"I have tried that..." Luna retorted.

"Yes but...your version of tact is often too blunt Luna...no offense..." I said in kind reply.

"*sigh* I have been working on that, truly..." Luna said softly.

"I know Lu, I know" I said tenderly as I nuzzled her affectionately.

"I will talk with him...I will make it a priority to do so" I said in addition.

"Thank you Tia..." Luna said smiling a little.

"You're welcome; now...how about breakfast?" I asked kindly.

"I would love that" Luna replied more cheerfully, we then ate breakfast together.

*****Canterlot: This afternoon: Celestia*****

I was in my Throne Room taking care of the day's paperwork and the like as well as preparations for the upcoming Gala, it was then a scroll appeared, it was from Twilight..."Ah, I wonder what Twilight has to say?" I asked myself cheerfully, I always loved a letter from Twilight...reminds me of the days before she became a princess.

"What does this have to-...." I froze mid-sentence as I read...it was about Bold Heart, the letter said this, 

"Dear Princess Celestia, I am writing to you about Bold Heart in regards toward his actions and attitude when visited by your sister Luna in his dreams last night, I write you because Heart was too afraid to write or rather face you himself because he fears you may have him severely punished because of it; because of this he extends his apologizes and deep regret about his behavior with Luna, he is genuinely sorry and he though he does not show it, he is understanding that he should not have gotten as angry as he did at Luna and he wanted to see through this letter how you feel about what Luna may have told you when you saw her....I and Heart patiently await your reply. faithfully yours, Twilight Sparkle." "I see...." I said brooding on the letter for a moment.

"I had better reply then shall I?" I mused, then I started to write.

**Ponyville: Twilight's castle: Twilight** 

With in a short time a letter was sent back, it came from Celestia...

"My dearest Twilight, I have received and read your letter with great interest and have for you my reply, you wrote to me on Bold Heart's behalf and I read what he had to say and understand his concerns about my thoughts on his talk with Luna...while his fear of my retribution is false and groundless, his idea of punishment is only half true...because the attitude he displayed when my sister spoke with him was less than ideal, his starting date as a Royal Guard has been postponed to next week on Thursday not this coming Thursday, in addition I shall have a word with him as well, he is to come to Canterlot this Thursday for my discussion with him; please inform him I wish to show no anger or harshness toward him...this is important you tell him this...though he is in trouble, it is not as severe as he thinks...send my regards and my compassion to Heart and I hope to see him soon. Respectfully yours, Princess Celestia." 

"Well at least Celestia is not going to, 'have your head'" Twilight chuckled awkwardly.

"Yes...and she wants a talk..." I said dryly.

"Did you hear what she said darling? She is not going to yell or be angry with you...she just wants a talk...." Rarity said comfortingly.

"I heard...just the idea....I understand postponing my service as a Guard...." I said solemnly.

"Well it was better than you thought...." Twilight remarked.

"It is...it is...." I replied.

"Well I should tell Aj that I will be in Canterlot Thursday for something other than being a guard...." I said in a low tone.

"I am a pathetic emotional wreak..." I sighed in defeat.

"We don't think that..." Rarity said kindly.

"I know you do not...it is myself that has to be convinced...." I said glumly.

"We know Heart...you just need time..." Twilight said caringly.

"I hope time is on my side...." I said in retort.

"It is Heart...it is." Rarity said confidently, I simply smiled in reply.

"So Rarity? You doing anything later this evening?" Twilight asked.

"Actually I am not...I would not mind having dinner with you" 

"Great! I am happy you will be staying" Twilight said.

"If Spike comes back he may like that as well" I said chuckling.

"Perhaps...*giggles* there's your humor!" Rarity said warmly.

"Ha...thank you..." I replied shyly.

"Anytime..." Rarity replied; we soon calmed down and Rarity even joined in the reading routine we had, it was pretty quiet during the reading until.

"Hello? Twilight?" a voice called out, it was Spike, he had returned from his play-date and upon entering Twilight called out to him.

"Hey everypony...oh hey Rarit-...." Spike stopped mid-sentence and did a comedic double-take then said.

"Rarity?!" he spoke in a surprised tone.

"Hello Spikey-wikey" Rarity cooed at the young Fire Drake, causing him to comedically to stammer and blush trying to say something to her.

"It is good to see you too Spike" Rarity giggled in response.

"Uh Spike? You are turning pink..." I observed.

"Actually it is a shade of Rose...Heart" Rarity corrected.

"Only you would know that Rarity" I retorted chuckling, Twilight simply giggled at this scene.

"You're not wrong Heart" Rarity said laughing lightly, resulting in all of us laughing.

We after a while then began dinner, and I helped make it so to learn how to cook, and soon dinner was served; at the table we ate and had light talk including informing why Rarity was here and Spike putting his two cents in about it.

"Despite the water-works from you Heart it is always good to have you visit..." Rarity said kindly, 

"I just hope to visit someday without it being for telling you what I dreamed of every night...." I said in reply.

"I understand" she replied.

"I am sorry for not telling you again about my dreams Twilight..." I said ears splayed back.

"I know why you did it though....if Rarity had not been there..." Twilight said her own ears splaying in guilt.

"Well on a comedic note...Heart called it" Rarity said stifling her laughter.

"Called....what?" Twilight asked raising an eyebrow.

"I said or actually Rarity said, 'Twilight would if I know her she would've wrote to Celestia begging her not to punish you and she also may have chewed you out herself about it'" I recalled.

That broke her....Rarity was in a fit brushing tears as she tried not to fall from her seat do to lack of oxygen, I and Spike soon joined in for some reason and seeing Twilight's deadpanned expression made it worse.

"Ha ha...very funny..." Twilight said sarcastically resulting in Rarity, Spike and I almost bursting out again longer! After calming down a little did Twilight eventually crack a smile and chuckle a little.

"Okay that does sound like me..it almost was, that is what I find disappointing yet a little humorous" Twilight said.

"Oh Twilight don't sweat it..." Spike said. 

"Problem was solved right?" he said in addition.

"Very true Spike" Rarity chimed, with Spike blushing again in response.

"Thanks Spike...but I have a feeling Heart may not sleep well for a while..." Twilight said solemnly.

"*sigh*...Yes...." I said in reply.

"Aw Heart....I know it will be difficult...but I would try to...I am still looking out for you...even Twilight..." Rarity soothed.

"I know...I just wonder what will happen nonetheless...." I said staring off in thought.

"So do we Heart...so do we...." Twilight said; later that evening things were calm again...though Twilight, Rarity, and Spike knew that tonight...I would be lucky to sleep at all......

TO BE CONTINUED....
> Chapter 16: The coming Storm(of Emotions)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

			~I was dreaming again...I was sure of it....I was back on the battlefield I last fought over....but all there was, was a low ghostly wind blowing across the field and over...corpses...hundreds and hundreds by the score lying everywhere I looked...so lonely...so eerie...and in a twisted sense...calming...I could almost stay here and listen to it as it howled softly...I just....wandered...aimlessly around and through the bodies where they lay, I have no idea why it was so inviting...but it was...I was both disturbed and yet amused....and yet...I kept walking....the occasional crunch as I stepped on dry grass and some leaves....and by accident....a deceased soldier's hand.....showing pity for them though they were no one...and yet...they were someone....I just did not really know them....this disturbed me.....of the ghastly scene the fact about the dead and what they meant to me was more frightening than all the carnage and destruction that lay around me.....I am disturbed....I was....but for the wrong reason....but despite this....I could...dare I say it? 

Despite this....I did not care....I wandered for a while...the wind still moaning and whistling, but all the while I felt like I was in no danger, like I could not be safer despite what was in the back of my mind saying "you should not be so calm" yet I ignore that sense of danger and kept wandering on. I wandered for what seemed like hours maybe and I just wondered where was it I was going? Where is it that I want to be? I was lost and yet....I just....knew where I wanted to be.....suddenly a voice sounds....the gender is....unknown, but it sounds familiar to me, it calls my name....."Jesse"......then it says...."Bold Heart".....I was confused, then the voice returned yelling, "Who are you??"......

I am unsure how to answer, I do not know why but I am unable to respond, "Do you not know right from wrong?" the voice shouts again, "WHERE is your heart?" it asks in addition.

"What do you mean?" I asked.

"You know what I means...." the voice said snidely.

"I know where it is" I said.

"Do you?" the voice teased, "It is not in the correct place....it is jealous, you are jealous....are you?" it said in addition.

"Why are you asking?" I asked angrily.

"Oooo! Temper temper~....Watch yourself you..." it taunted.

"ENOUGH GAMES!!" I roared, "Who are you?!" I asked.

"What does it matter to you who I am?" it said in retort.

"So I know who is talking" I said calmly, I turn around and there standing was.....me....my Pony form....

"Heloo~.....Jesse...." 

"What...are you?" I asked frightened.

"I am you Jesse...." the pony me said with a smirk.

"No...." "Yes~...." the pony me cooed.

"You are not just me" I said firmly.

"*sigh* Damn....I thought I had you....." he said disappointedly.

"I thought you were me..." I remarked slyly.

"I am..." he said slightly angered.

"Really? Then why did you think I would believe that you are just me and not some whatever you are of me?" I asked, "Unless....you arenot me... or at least my other me...." I said in addition.

"SILENCE!" he roared, "I am you!!" he roared in addition, "I....AM....YOUR....JEALOUSY!!..." he revealed roaring.

"I had a feeling..." I said calmly.

"YOU....insulate worm!!!" Jealousy roared.

"How am I a worm?" I asked.

"YOU....you are ignoring me!!" Jealousy hissed, 

"Because you got me in trouble!!" I yelled back.

"I MERELY BROUGHT OUT WHAT YOU COULD NOT SAY!!" 

"You know Luna is not mine to have....she never was!!" I roared.

"SHE SHOULD HAVE BEEN!!" Jealousy shrieked.

"I know this! I know that I felt she should have been!! But she in NOT so GET OVER IT!!" 

"NEVER!!!!!!" Jealousy roared deafeningly, soon the dead soldiers rose to their feet and began to slowly advance on me.

"You have no power Jealousy!!" I yelled.

"THE HELL I DO NOT!!" he yelled again, the soldiers trudged on.

"No....no you do not...you are not my master...you are....NOTHING!!!" I roared and then a shock-wave blasted the undead troops away from me.

"I AM...NOT...NOTHING!!!" Jealousy retorted back.

"YES...YOU...ARE!!!" I shouted back now sending him flying, I advanced on him now that the zombie soldiers were gone, when I approached me, I found myself on my back and he standing over me....

"*panting* You.....may have...beaten me...but...you...will not...destroy me!!" Jealousy said rearing up to stamp on me, I however....did not cringe, I simply laid there and waited to have his hooves smash me....but nothing happened, I open my eyes, Jealousy was on his side...50 yards to my right....

"NO! You shalt not harm him!!"~ I am laying there and after a bit I looked to my left and just before I blacked out, I saw her...."We shall meet again..." she said smoothly.

I awake panting, I was also sweating profusely...looking around my room I tried to calm down, eventually I did....and I was unsure what to think....but I eventually went back to sleep which had no dreams for the rest of the night. I awake again the next day and upon arriving where the girls Twilight and Rarity, and Spike were eating breakfast Twilight noticed me.

"Hello Heart, I hope you slept at least well last night" she said warmly.

"I tried...got an unexpected dream out of it...." I said.

"Was Luna there?" Twilight asked.

"Yes...and she saved me..." I said.

"What??" all three said.

"I will explain" I said, and I did...after my story everypony sat in surprise.

"Whoa dude...that is trippy...." Spike said in awe.

"That was quite the dream Heart...terrifying as well..." Rarity said looking startled.

"More than that....Luna was there...and she saved you from your jealousy....and she said 'We shall meet again'?" Twilight said.

"I wonder when that will be...." 

"I have a feeling that despite Celestia seeing you this Thursday, Luna may have a meeting of her own with you this evening" Twilight said.

"I wonder what it could be for" I thought aloud.

"I would think that she is wanting to meet you, so she could forgive you for the anger toward her you displayed" Rarity guessed.

"I could hope that would be it..." I said nervously.

"I would think so...since Celestia is showing kindness to you through the letter we got, I feel Luna may show kindness as well in this meeting"Twilight reasoned.

"I would hope so still....but I guess" I said.

"Well we better wrap this up because Heart has somewhere he needs to be am I right?" Rarity observed.

"Oh yes, Apple Acres; I have to get to work...." I said.

"Well when you go have a great day Heart" 

"Thank you Rarity" I said warmly.

"Of course" Rarity chimed back; soon I left for work and upon arriving, felt in a much better mood...more so than I have in a while.

"Howdy Heart!" the cow-mare said warmly.

"Heloo Aj" I said cheerfully.

"You look well today, sleep well?" she asked.

"Yes I have...better even" 

"Really? Well that's good!" she beamed happily.

"Thank you Applejack..." 

"Sure thing Sugarcube...now, let us get to werk!" Aj said with a smile.

"Yes mam....but I have to inform you about something....something that if not now then later I have to be in Canterlot yes Thursday but not for starting my first day as a Royal Guard but to have a talk with Celestia" I said while following behind her.

"Oh, uh...okay Heart, sure thing" Aj said not skipping a beat.

"Thank you...." I said warmly; I soon began to work and things again went smoothly, getting things done at a efficient and productive rate, and soon it was lunch and we took that break for the amount of time we did while I told her some things...not much really but something, then we were at work again. Time went on and my day was done, I was paid up front and off I went, I then headed to the spa again and met Aloe instead because Lotus was off today on a date with her coltfriend, I cleaned up and was on my way back home; at Twilight's I was greeted by Spike who said Rarity had left and it was Twilight, him, and I again, I went inside and met with Twilight as soon as I found her. 

We just had a light conversation and then we went through our routine and then had dinner, dinner went smoothly with little said during it; soon dinner was over and we went to read before we were off to our beds, but this time during reading Twilight and I read the same book together while sitting next to each other, I asked Twilight if I could for the anxiety I had for tomorrow and this evening and she agreed with a warm, caring, and inviting smile; soon after reading together we headed off to bed, and to be honest....reading with Twilight made me feel a lot better, she does create an air of ease around her...despite her moments where she can be less than calm...she is a gem, a beautiful, kind, and smart gem. Once in bed I felt sleep come easier than before....I actually invited the drowsiness this night, but at the same time was unsure what will happen....if Luna does hold her own meeting tonight.

~I am in the open field again....the air slightly cold....the wind less menacing this time....The wind was soft and gentle, relaxing despite the sky being blacked out be lingering musket smoke which still had the pungent scent of sulfur, the carnage of battle were gone this time...it was just an empty field....then....I saw a red velvet couch?...

"What is this?" I asked out loud...

"It is for you" a female voice sounded, "Please...sit" it asked kindly, I did as it asked.

"Could you perhaps remove that smell also please?" it asked in addition, I thought hard then the smell was gone....but the cloud above remained, "Thank you..." she replied before through the smoke a bluish purple winged unicorn descended from the sky passing and disturbing the musket smoke as she punched through, she finally landed in front of me gracefully before walking the few feet between us before sitting in front of me just within touching range.~

"Did you expect me?" Luna asked.

"Not this evening" I said avoiding her eyes.

"Would you please look at me?" Luna asked kindly, I did so and saw when I met her face she had the look of an expression saying 'I know why you are avoiding looking at me'.

"Thank you Jesse" Luna said with a smile, I was still uncomfortable and she looked like she knew so she with her body, face, and eyes tried to make me comfortable.

"I know you are uneasy around me..." she said looking down and off to the side with a guilty look coupled with her ears splayed back and wings drooped.

"Especially after our last meeting" Luna said now looking at me again but her ears were still down and wings the same.

"Yes...I want to-..." I was interrupted when Luna held up her hoof.

"Sorry to interrupt but....you may not believe me....but you do not have to apologize...I do....the reason being me not being very tactful or as understanding as I should have been...I have that habit too often rear itself and I intend to break it, forgive me Jesse...Bold Heart..." Luna said tenderly.

"I suppose..." I said slumping in my seat.

"Now your sister is going to talk with me tomorrow..." I said in a low tone.

"Yes...I heard her say this....so I came here..." Luna said.

"Meaning?" I asked perplexed.

"No meaning...other than wanting to make sure there is no bad blood between us...that is the last thing I want...especially you thinking I have something against you because of what you said" Luna rattled off.

"Thank you for your kindness...though I do not think I earned it..." I said looking saddened.

"How so?" Luna said softly putting her hoof on my knee while looking at me caringly.

"I am acting childish....about not being able to love you...." I said tearing up, Luna then rubs my knee compassionately catching me off guard.

"Not fully....reason being I shall safely guess you did not have fair luck with love back home?" Luna asked now getting up and to my surprise sitting next to me, she had a saddened look but also I could guess an understanding expression.

"Yes...yes I did...well sort of..." I said then having Luna wrap her left front leg around me and say.

"Tell me..." she asked politely.

"Alright...this is what happened" I said sitting more comfortably.

"*During my younger years...between 13 and 15, I had what I would perhaps call my first girlfriend....I do not remember how long we were together but it was not very long...one day she started to avoid me...after a while of avoiding me she finally tells me why she was avoiding me...." I said before I starting tearing a little, Luna pets me to comfort and asks.

"Why was she avoiding you? Did thou do something?....Say something?....Was it your fault?" she asked like a parent would to a child knowing it was hiding something.

"No...*It was a rumor...a silly one...said by somebody...she got embarrassed by it and to perhaps end the teasing...she left me....and did not even tell me she dumped me....*end*" I finished...beginning to lose my composure.

"Oh dear....that is terrible...I'm sorry Heart.....truly" Luna said genuinely, I am all but in tears though and after pushing away to lay down partially could not reply but Luna tried to comfort me by petting me again by rubbing my leg with her hoof....

"I when I came here thought....even though I did not plan coming here I could perhaps plan to set up my life...and put my life in gear and move forward and make a living and find love while perhaps waiting til I could go home...then when I found out you were not single....all hope died....or rather was mortally wounded and was dying slowing and painfully as the days passed...." I said losing my calm further....

"***My deepest fear was and is not financial instability or lack of success...but having no one to share in my success and greet me at the end of each day after a productive day....***" I said the last line crumbling and tears fell more freely, I swear I nearly croaked my last sentence...I was nearly weeping when I felt myself being pulled...soon I was again being hugged by Luna...she herself in tears....again.....Luna then said.

"I while in here found a **song that you apparently loved...I feel there is good advice found with in it" Luna said then began to sing it beautifully; when finished boy howdy....memories flooded and feelings rampant....

"Please take this to heart Jesse....I believe it's lyrics....you should as well..." Luna said now getting up, I was a little zoned out when she did and she almost left until she looked back then said.

"Bold Heart?" she called back snapping me out of my zoning out.

"Yes?" I croaked.

"Come with me..." she said.

"What?..." I asked stunned.

"Come with me..." she repeated warmly.

"O-okay..." I said getting up and walking after her, she then placed me on her back and off we went.

We soon were in the realm that I remembered from the show...it served as where Twilight became an Alicorn, and as the Dream World.

"You alright? You have been quiet..." Luna said as we flew before landing.

"It is just....I could be not going through all this...if I was not so childish inside you would not be doing all this...I would not be in trouble, Celestia would not being talking with me tomorrow...." I said walking a few paces from her, Luna said nothing til asking me to walk with her then spoke.

"There is no weakness here Heart...you think yourself weak?" 

"I do not think this, Jesse....not in the slightest" Luna said.

"How so? I feel down right stupid, childish, and as pathetic as one could be...." I said in a defeated tone.

"I feel and see an individual who yes is child-like, but while you could have handled things differently, I would not expect less than what you have from someone who had their hopes and dreams dashed by the reality of a situation" Luna said walking along side me.

"Is that so?...." I said looking at her then forward.

"Yes...you are a sensitive, emotional individual who albeit sounds like a Changeling *chuckle*, is just desperate for love....a kind voice to greet them each day, morning, afternoon, and evening....a presence to comfort him through his worries..." Luna said stopping me to put her hoof on my cheek.

"Someone or Somepony rather to give near unconditional love to her....to make her in return feel as wanted as you would for him to feel...."Luna said soothingly, "...and that...is the most beautiful thing, I have ever seen and heard somepony ask for..." Luna said tearing up again, she then to my surprise...kissed me....she kissed me!! I stood there dumbfounded for a minute before Luna's chuckling snapped me out of it.

"Was that your first kiss?..." Luna teased kindly, I did not reply though I felt like I did not need to.

"Oh my it is!!" Luna said giggling a little in surprise.

"Forgive me but I find it...cute...albeit sad slightly but adorable!!" Luna said with her eyes twinkling.

"Yeah yeah yuck it up...." I said souring.

"P-Please..." Luna said calming from her laughter.

"I did not mean to offend you..." Luna said laughter still a little present in her voice.

"*sigh* I know you did not...." I said lessening my sour expression.

"Well....I am sorry to have done that...had I known..." Luna said looking a little guilty.

"Better than never knowing...now I know what Cielo is enjoying..." I said with an honestly unintentional bitterness to it.

"I see..." Luna said her ears flattening out in guilt.

"Sorry about that..." Luna said.

"It was an experience...one I will debate if I should cherish or forget...." I said with a dry chuckle.

"I see....well I hope I am not the last mare you will kiss...." Luna said with a small smile.

"I could hope so...." I said pausing.

"Are you staying around?" I asked in addition.

"If you want...." 

"Really? Do you not have others to visit?" I asked.

"One thing this ability has that is unique is it gives me God's power of omnipresence....I am in multiple dreams at once" Luna said sagely.

"However the Luna you see before you...." Luna said allowing for a sentence filler.

"You are the real one..." I said slightly hesitant.

"You are correct, I chose to be present for yours" Luna said warmly.

"Does that make me feel special.." I said near sarcastically.

"It was for reason Jesse....for your well being I needed to intervene..." Luna said seriously.

"By the way....thank you for saving me from my Jealousy..." I said genuinely.

"You are welcome...I heard what you two said, about me..." Luna said pausing for any answer from me.

"All of it?" I asked.

"Yes....if not most...." Luna said showing a window of that very dream, ("I MERELY BROUGHT OUT WHAT YOU COULD NOT SAY!!" "You know Luna is not mine to have....she never was!!" I roared, "SHE SHOULD HAVE BEEN!!" Jealousy shrieked, "I know this! I know that I felt she should have been!! But she in NOT so GET OVER IT!!" "NEVER!!!!!!" Jealousy roared deafeningly) 

"I wish to correct something here..." Luna said in addition.

"Like what?" I asked.

"A statement you made..."

"A statement I made or Jealousy?" I asked confused.

"You...." Luna said.

"Which was?" I asked perplexed.

"You said the I was never meant to be yours...How did you know?" Luna asked kindly.

"If I was, I would be where Cielo is...since I am not...I never was meant to be...." I said downtrodden.

"Perhaps....but I may have loved you if I met you.." Luna said soothingly.

"Sure you would....out of what?...pity?" I said in retort.

"No...sympathy, compassion, and understanding for your plight...did you forget about Nightmare Moon?" Luna said calmly.

"I know what it is like to be denied love from those I loved as well..." Luna said in addition.

"It is not the same yes but it is similar" Luna added atop.

"I see....funny you say that, the reason is because that was my reason for seeking you out..." I said.

"Really?..." Luna replied slightly surprised.

"Yes...so maybe you are right about me being wrong....but only 1/2 wrong...." I said.

"Be as it may....at least you know you had a chance..." Luna said sagely.

"Key word....'had'...." I said dryly.

"Must you be negative on things?" Luna said chuckling

"How can I be positive about failing at finding love?" I said.

"By being hopeful for your future...to be positive that you will find love and to not quit because things seem to be going wrong..." Luna said soothingly putting her hoof on me.

"*sigh* I can try but...how long til my patience and hope have reached their limits?" I asked glumly.

"You have Twilight and her friends to help you...did you forget them as well?" Luna said seriously.

"*sigh*...." I replied only to groan and near yell in frustration as well as pull my hair as well with my rifle barely staying slung on my shoulder.

"I understand Jesse....believe me!" Luna said in a pleading tone.

"I have been where you are! Do not make the same mistakes as I, fight it! Fight your feelings and remember there are others who love you, and care for you! Those who do anything for you! We may not have known you for years but we feel like we have! You have made that great an impact and impression with us!" Luna said emotionally, 

"Do not throw it so carelessly away! Please!" Luna begged.

"Tell me Luna....have you talked with somepony suicidal?" I asked in a grave tone.

"I have...I have saved them too; you are not suicidal" Luna said bluntly.

"How can you tell?" 

"I know....I can tell if you were...my experience is great enough" Luna said.

"And if I prove you wrong?" I said.

"Then I hope God shows you the mourning we would be showing for your death..." Luna said solemnly.

"Anyways....I learned something from all this and is a progressive measure" I said.

"What is that?" Luna asked slightly concerned.

"Princesses should not be courted....it is brings more pain than it is worth..." I said in a hurt tone looking at Luna; Luna did a double-take before asking.

"And how is that progressive?" 

"It takes all over-ambitious confidence, unrealistic goals, and over-sized egos.....and kills them..." I said darkly, Luna's eyes widened at the remark, she paused then spoke.

"How is this beneficial to you?" Luna asked with a saddened expression, I said nothing which urged another question.

"How is it a benefit to forsake dreams and goals? To consider courting a princess more pain than it is worth?" Luna asked as if begging for an answer.

"It prevents more heart-break from coming and further disappointment...." I said bluntly.

"Besides...after thinking about it...How would I do in a leading position?" I asked.

"You would have help...." Luna countered.

"Regardless...this topic is over...I am done...the issue is dead...." I said in a finalizing tone.

"So there is nothing then? Nothing I can say to change your mind?" Luna asked sounding slightly defeated.

"Yes...no more Princess flirts...." I said stated, Luna stood there a moment, conflicted on what to say as she looked in thought; a few seconds passed then she spoke.

"Very well...may you find happiness one day...may you find the peace you so desired...I am sorry for you...and your conflicted heart & mind...I tried my best..." Luna said turning to leave but not before turning her head to look at me as if wait for me to ask her to stay, when I failed to act Luna turned again and walked a few paces then stopping, still waiting for me to tell her not to go....still nothing.

"Goodnight Jesse...dream well as you can...and have a pleasant meeting with my sister tomorrow..." Luna said softly with a caring tone, she kept walking....but still I did not stop her...soon to her disappointment...I did nothing as she finally left.

I awoke suddenly but in a gradual way...tears were streaming down my cheeks...I was in my room again, and my heart felt heavy, it hurt within my rib-cage...like it had been punched hard and left to pick itself up, I was just staring up at my ceiling...the hurt was unbearable and overwhelming....as the song from my past sang in Luna's voice rang in my ears it made it worse....I then began to weep softly, thinking about what happened, I was torn asunder inside as I thought about what she said...oh it hurt to think about....but part of me wanted to believe her...think positive, but it was so hard....so difficult...and painful...heartbreaking.....but I felt like I wanted to believe Luna...needed to believe her....but it felt like a challenge too great for me to tackle...and it drove me mad!! As time passed drowsiness took hold and with a shudder I fell back into slumbering stillness...awaiting the coming dawn....

TO BE CONTINUED....
> Chapter 17: Solar socializing
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

		I awake the next day after awaking in the middle of the night earlier, I to be honest am naturally timid....what I face still frightens me to think about, despite the letter Celestia had sent in reply to Twilight's letter...I still feel that Celestia may have some choice words to say to me...though I hope Luna's meeting with me will soften Celestia's mood even though Luna and I were now aware that we were not on bad terms...I again had her and I part on what even then could have been better conditions...my mind was a blur in a racing pace, what was not going through my mind is the question here...as I headed to breakfast before catching a train to the Capital. Once in the eating area I met with Twilight and Spike, once I sat down I said to Twilight Luna did have a meeting with me and not only that I went into slight details about it, after the talk I left for the station...but even though I was going alone Twilight insisted she accompany me to the station; we soon are half way there and Twilight then strikes a conversation. 

"So...I wonder if Celestia would let me join you? She did not say anything against it" Twilight reasoned.

"I think it was implied that I go alone to meet her...this is a talk between us" I stated. 

"True but...I would just tag along so when your meeting ends you will have somepony to greet you...." Twilight countered.

"I see....perhaps....unless you have things that might pop up?" I asked considerately. 

"Oh no I have a clear schedule today...I can join you.." Twilight said cheerfully. 

"You had better let Spike know" I advised.

"Oh I told him that if I do not come back I left with you" Twilight informed.

"Is that so?" I asked with interest.

"Yes, so looks like I'll be joining you" Twilight said with a grin.

"I guess you are" I said smiling a little.

"Excellent!" Twilight exclaimed.

"I admit I do like the idea of having company for this...it will help" I said with a grateful smile, "Of course! You are a lot calmer when you are with somepony..." Twilight observed, 

"I know, it is a big difference, I feel less tense" I stated.

"Very true...in fact, you look calmer already!" Twilight beamed.

"I do feel it" I observed chuckling.

"I feel you should be fine" Twilight said tenderly.

"Thank you as always" 

"Anytime, as always" Twilight chuckled kindly in response. We soon arrived at the station, and again one ticket was bought the other free, and we boarded our car and waited to leave; while on board Twilight pulled from her saddlebag two books, and hoofed me one to read, this was appreciated and we soon started to read. With in three minutes the train whistled and jolted forward chuffing as it started and soon was on its way to Canterlot.

***** Next stop: Canterlot *****

We during the ride said nothing and read our books, to be honest I did not mind either or, a conversation or silence...though I still hated silence...even though I had days to weeks of socializing which was more than I had in my life prior to coming here, of which I am extremely grateful for do not get me wrong...anyways we just simply read our books, but then...I looked up, and looking at Twilight....I sighed quietly as I looked at the relaxed focus of her reading, the sun shining off her in a beautiful way....the reason is...the statement I made to Luna about courting princesses, that I knew would exclude courting Twilight would it? 

But I felt I just...should not do this...I mean...Twilight Sparkle....she...she...*sigh*...she would make a stallion very happy, I envy the stallion who courts her and wins...perhaps as much if not a little like how I envy Cielo for having Luna, but I digress...the point is moot, discussion over, topic dead....is it? The train finally arrived and soon we disembarked, we then made our way to the Capital and along the way we again had little to say for more than half the way to the Keep, it was when we entered the castle itself the scene from days past played out and we waited for Celestia alone to then arrive and then speak.

"Bold Heart!....Twilight?" Celestia said looking at us confused.

"Hello Celestia, I thought I'd accompany Heart here for his trip here then back" Twilight explained.

"I see...." Celestia said biting the inside of her cheek, "Well I am happy to see you made it, now Bold Heart if you would come with me please" Celestia said in an even tone as she turned to head off.

"Right behind you your Majesty" I called after.

Celestia then stopped to wait until I was along side her, once beside her she turned her head to look at Twilight, "Twilight you can go, we won't be too long" she said with a smile.

"Uh sure thing Celestia" Twilight said as she nodded with respect, "See you in a while Heart" Twilight said warmly before turning to leave,

"What if I am done and you are not here?" I asked Twilight.

"I will take care of that" Celestia said kindly.

"Thank you" I replied.

"Of course" Celestia replied, soon Celestia and I left for where ever we would be as Twilight left to where ever she would be; we then made our way through the halls, and soon we arrived...I knew this room...it was Celestia's, looks like our talk will be one I would not expect less from being personal if she would take me somewhere more private than say some study or someplace else. We then entered and upon entering Celestia spoke, "Please take a seat" she requested softly, I did so quickly and waited "Thank you" Celestia said.

*************** The Meeting ****************

"Something to drink?" she offered.

"No thank you..." I replied.

"Alright then...oh and while you're at it, please calm down" Celestia said with a kind tone.

"S-sorry I am just nervous...." I replied shakily.

"Why?" Celestia asked looking perplexed.

"I do not know what you are going to say to me..." I said looking timid.

"*sigh*.....I know Heart...I know..." she said walking over to sit in front of me while she herself had a drink with her, "Now...the talk you fear so much, first off need I remind you of the letter I sent?" she said calm and even.

"I do..." I said relaxing slightly.

"Good, now then...." Celestia said clearing her throat to start off our talk.

"As you know your behavior with my sister two nights ago was far from professional and proper...you upset-ted her greatly as a result" Celestia said as if reading a script but in a soft tone. 

"That being said your first day as a Royal Guard has been postponed as punishment" Celestia continued to rattle off. 

I during this kept calm though it was difficult, "That also being said....I heard you and Luna held a meeting of your own...." Celestia said her tone altering a little.

"She told you about that?" I asked softly.

"Yes, she did; also she told me how your meeting went" Celestia in a more emotive tone no longer like reading a script.

"What did she say?" I asked nervously.

Celestia sat quietly in what was clearly in thought, like she was thinking of how to reply to my question, after a little pause she then gave her answer, "She told me that you were kinder toward her and also...more emotional and open to sharing your 'secrets'" Celestia said showing some warmth to her voice.

"Really?" I asked in a even tone.

"Yes, she did...and what she shared with me..." Celestia pausing mid-sentence which I learned quickly why; she was showing a surprising emotion as far as I was concerned about this moment, my emotional personality must be rubbing off on ponies because Celestia looked moved, like she had read a beautiful poem or topically, had seen my meeting and heard my words.

"....Was the most touching things I ever heard...." Celestia said with light streams of tears falling and a warm smile.

"Is that so?..." I asked incredulously.

"Absolutely....I was only partially sure of what you wanted most by being dropped into our world, what you would do if a mare fell in love with you...now I know better....I now know why you wanted a mare's love, to not just keep you company, but also to express your desire to show how much you would make her feel loved as much as you wished from her, that and to think of somepony else and not yourself is why you wanted a mare's love ..." Celestia said barely keeping her voice from cracking.

"I find that to be one of the most selfless reasons for love I have ever heard...and I can see why you not being able to court Luna broke you so..." Celestia said in addition wiping tears away with her leg, "She also told me about your last relationship, this also taught me much" Celestia said regaining herself.

"I bet she did...told you the whole thing?" I asked.

"Yes Heart, she told me the whole thing...my sympathies to you..." Celestia said tenderly.

"Thank you, now you and Luna have given sympathy" I replied.

"Of course, she also told me how she told you how she can relate to you did she not?" Celestia asked.

"Yes....saying although not the same, the idea is similar" I said. 

"True; to perhaps make this productive, how are you doing in Ponyville?" she asked now fully composed. 

"I have been doing well, earning an income and enjoying my friendship with Twilight and her friends as well...made a friend also with the co-owner of the spa in Ponyville as well" I recalled.

"That is wonderful!" Celestia said now beaming with her trademark warm smile, "I am glad to hear this, what is the name of the co-owner?" she asked.

"Lotus Blossom" I said.

"Ah I see...how did you befriend her?" Celestia asked.

"First time I went there...I was attending the spa to enjoy my first time in a spa when Lotus started...." I dragged off in thought because it was the memory that had me embarrassed slightly.

"Started what?" Celestia asked with that near damnable yet cute impish smirk of hers.

"Flirting...." I said looking at her slightly weirded and annoyed by her mischievous trolling smile.

"Ah...." she giggled.

"What happened next?" she asked now looking like she was listening to secrets.

"I told her that she was making me uncomfortable...then she got embarrassed and stopped doing it...only to have her tell me that she had her relationship broken up recently and she was looking for another stallion..." I explain.

This caused Celestia's smile to vanish and a confused look was on her face, "I see..." she said calmly.

"It is better now for her...she is dating a Pegasus" I said to calm Celestia down if she was troubled.

"And how did this make you her friend?" Celestia asked softly, 

"I comforted her and promised to keep her hopes up until her luck changes" I replied.

"That was nice of you Heart, very kind...interesting since how you were at the time..." Celestia observed/

"Yes...well my thought was if she could have better luck that I, that would be better than two heartbroken ponies..." I reasoned.

"I see...but why did you turn down her affections?" Celestia asked.

"I was at an emotional place at the time...plus she did not feel like my type..." I said near hesitantly.

"I see, well even though I find those slightly poor excuses, I am happy she found somepony" Celestia said.

"As am I...I told her too I was pleased....also we became friends because I told her things that I was not yet ready to tell Twilight or her friends...she kept my secrets until I was ready...then that fell on Rarity and her as time went on" I started saying.

"Then I started just telling Twilight like my thoughts were nothing...except when I got angry at Luna...then I just told Rarity so Twilight would not chew me out...and the beg you not to hurt me..." I said in addition. 

What happen next caught me off guard a little though I saw it coming, Celestia started from when I talked about why Rarity became my secret keeper because of my fear of Twilight to have her face start twitching, then before I said a word Celestia snickered then bursted out for a solid 2 minutes roughly sides shaking all the while, after that she took a moment to brush tears away then spoke.

"Oh I haven't laughed so hard in ages!! If not a while" Celestia said sounding a little breathless.

"I am pleased you found it so amusing...I laughed too..." I said warmly.

"Rarity was the one who said that first by the way" I stated. 

"Well I thank her for the laugh.." Celestia said partially breathless.

"What makes it funny is that Twilight got to hear that remark" I informed.

"Really?" Celestia asked sounding excited with laughter still present in her tone.

"Yes she did...she giggled a little out of how true it is..." I said.

"Well...that is Twilight for you, she has her habits" Celestia said warmly. 

"She does..." I said looking off in thought.

"Now I have been wanting to avoid this but...Luna told me that you think courting a princess is too much trouble?" Celestia said, "She told me your reasons and I found them....ridiculous" she finished flatly.

"How so?" I asked sounding offended.

"Well the idea that dating a princess is the source for unrealistic goals, over-ambitious confidence, and....'over-sized ego's'?" Celestia listed off.

"It often is...in my world it is no exception...also I do not think I could handle leading a nation..." I said.

"Is that what you think?" Celestia asked looking incredulously.

"Yes...I now that I think about I was an idiot to think I could that..." I said bluntly, wincing at the idea looking off to the side. Celestia just looked at me, unsure what to think at the moment due to what she heard from my mouth, she was disappointed, yet understanding even though she did not agree with a majority of his opinions, she looked like she again was thinking on the right thing to say; she then looked like she had her thought and put it into words.

"I may not agree with most of your statements but if you think that you are unable to handle leading a nation, then who am I to say otherwise?" Celestia stated.

"Really?" I asked looking up at her.

"Yes, I know when to accept that a pony has reached their limit...I would never task a pony something that they are unable to handle" Celestia stated.

"Good to know....I guess...." I said a little shaky, due to that I may have caused a slight problem...by also killing my chance at Celestia as well as Twilight...though I felt...both deserve better than I.

"Care to speak your mind?" Celestia said with her impish expression returning again.

"Uh what?" I said blankly after snapping into focus.

"Were you thinking about that kiss my sister gave you?" she said turning her head sideways, and raising an eye brow with a devilish smirk.

"What?!" I replied in shock, only to as a result have Celestia burst a second time into howling laughter much to my chagrin, "You heard me!" she said fighting her laughter.

"No. I was not" I stated coolly.

"Really?" Celestia teased.

"Yes...I was thinking about my statement about forsaking courting princesses" I replied honestly.

"Are you changing your mind?" she asked her expression no longer being teasing, "No....I thought about it....but no...still no..." I answered stern faced.

"A shame...not what I wanted....I was hoping you would change your mind..." Celestia said softly.

"Wwwhyyyy??" I said looking at her with a curious expression.

"You are a kind soul Heart...a sensitive pony...a being not from Equus yet as you are a pony who wanted only stability in his life, only to be thrown into turmoil by being dropped here...then you wanted to fall in love only to have that dream smash within your first day here?" Celestia started, "Because of this you went through a lot emotionally, I felt...I could be of assistance...in more ways than one..." Celestia said tenderly.

Something though was a little off here...Celestia seemed to look...like she was....flirting?....This could be problematic, I mean...I just made peace with Luna...the last thing I want is to get on bad terms then fight to make peace with Celestia too. But...she is so beautiful...so lonely...and the look in her eyes...she needs a stallion after losing Sombra, but I am not that stallion...nowhere near...this is getting unsettling by the second; now I may have a flirtatious head of state in front of me...and an awkward moment to plan my escape.

"Celestia? You okay?" I asked feeling nervous.

"Why do you ask?" Celestia asked looking innocent.

"You look...disappointed yes...but...something else..." I observed, now to play this wisely, do not want to say the wrong thing.

"I suppose...I apologize...I guess...because you mentioned if I recall correctly you loved Luna and me...I could take Luna's place in your heart?" Celestia asked looking embarrassed, shy, and to my surprise, desperate???

"I am flattered by your offer your Majesty...but I made my choice, I am sorry Celestia...truly I am..." I said in a soft tone, Celestia then looked at me with an expression that hurt slightly on a guilt level as she tried to think of what to say in reply, "Celestia?..." I said anxiously yet with concern.

"I'm alright Heart, I am just....thinking" Celestia said clearly lying to me, she seemed to be conflicted on her thoughts as she then tried to put on a face so to hide what she was thinking.

"I have upset you have I?" I said like in addressing the elephant in the room, Celestia looked at me with a surprised look on her face and as I expected, tried to deny this accusation I put on myself.

"NO!...I-I mean...no...you didn't, why did you think that?" she asked looking like she offended me while she stroked her mane with her hoof in an awkward fashion.

"Because you look like I have..." I said bluntly. ~That could be a mistake~ I thought.

"But why do you think this?" Celestia asked.

"The reason is I have turned down your affections, as Luna has when I partially offered them to her...I really am sorry Celestia...emotionally, mentally, and physically I am spent on the idea of princess courting...." I said looking sympathetic. 

Celestia seemed to be taking it in, but I was not convinced for Celestia was displaying a very familiar emotion...that worries me greatly, I thought I was a problem being broken hearted, Celestia being her....having her broken hearted?...a bad day waiting to happen...this could get out of hoof.

"Uh...h-how long is our meeting if I may ask?" I asked kindly.

"Not very long..." Celestia said looking now more visibly hurt, ~Great...now I hurt Celestia...nice going dumbass...~

"I can stay longer if you want" I offered kindly. ~That should help...~

"No...don't want you to keep Twilight waiting..." Celestia said finishing her 3rd cup of tea.

"She can wait....you look like you need company right now...say what you want I upset you, talking about earlier" I said tenderly.

"Th-Thank you Heart, you are a kind pony" Celestia said gratefully.

"Of course...but now I wonder who needs this talk?" I said laughing lightly resulting in Celestia chuckling in response with her cheerfulness now returning.

"You seem to know how to cheer somepony up" Celestia said, "You and Pinkie I will bet get along wonderfully" she added.

"Her and Rainbow" I said.

"Of course, I would expect you to as you are, getting along with Twilight and all of her friends as made clear earlier" Celestia said now fully herself again.

"Yes indeed, they are some of the best new friends one could ask for...especially for my case" I said warmly.

"I am pleased by this" Celestia said smiling her motherly smile that just warms your heart.

The meeting then went on for an additional 10 minutes resulting in a grand total of half an hour, not a whole lot of time but for a brief chat that is pretty long, anyways the meeting drew to a close and we pick back up here. "I think I was pleased by this meeting, I hope you know that Bold Heart" Celestia said warmly.

"Thank you, I am glad that this went well...and thank you for talking about things with me" I said gratefully.

"Naturally, that was my intention behind this I will have you know, to yes discuss the issue with my sister you had but to have a pleasant chat with you" Celestia said as she and I walked down the halls back to the stairs.

"Yes, the small...rather large talk was a pleasant experience" I said cheerfully, Celestia laughed at that.

"Yes well, you are more interesting than you give yourself credit for...plus I was making sure that despite your ups and downs, life in Equestria was treating you well" Celestia said caringly.

"I do appreciate the concern...but this time I will report if something is considerably amiss" I said.

"That would be lovely, I would be more than happy with this idea" Celestia said.

"Good, not that I mind a chat with you...it is however quite the trip...and you may be busy some days so a face to face would be problematic...".

"True...very true, but that is what this comes with...irritating as it is sometimes, I am here for a purpose...but that doesn't mean I can't have fun with it" Celestia said winking impishly.

"I noticed..." I said with a smirk, we chuckled at that.

Soon we were at the stairs and Celestia then called for a guard to find Twilight and bring her, the wait was 15 minutes but soon she returned; she had with her what looked like donuts, with evidence she had been still eating one because of the sprinkles and crumbs on her lips, an adorable yet silly sight.

*Twilight*

I had been gone for little over half an hour before heading back because a guard had said Celestia had finished her talk with Bold Heart, while on my own I simply walked around and even chatted with my old Canterlot friends, later I headed to Pony Joe's where the guard found me; I then headed back to the castle where I found Celestia and Heart waiting for me.

"Bold Heart, Celestia" I said with a light nod to Celestia.

"Hello Twilight, I see you kept yourself busy, as well as had something to eat" Celestia said giggling as she pointed at my mouth, how embarrassing! 

"Oh..s-sorry" I said brushing off my mouth.

"That's quite alright Twilight" Celestia chuckled, "Heart and I had a good talk, and things are settled now, he just has to wait til next week and then he can start" she said in addition.

"Oh good! I was wondering how the talk went...and how Heart is feeling" I said cheerfully.

"I am doing fine, it was a relaxing chat" Heart said with a smile.

"Excellent! Ready to go?" I asked stepping toward Heart and Celestia.

"I am...but one moment, thank you Celestia for this...I feel less in hot water than before and it was a treat to be casual with royalty again" Heart said; this made me stifle a giggle to hear him say, his view of things, the way he acts with certain things...it is so...cute...I blushed slightly at that, "You are quite welcome Heart, I hope you both have a safe journey to Ponyville" Celesta said giggling.

"Thank you, I shall" Heart said as he walked to me, "Likewise Celestia, see another time" I said to stand with Heart.

"You too Twilight" Celestia said as Heart and I began to leave, soon we were on our way and then Heart asks, 'You got donuts but did not bring more to share?' we laughed as did Celestia since we were still within earshot of her...how embarrassing..."Oh here then..." I said playfully pushing some at him, 'Tank you' he said making a face to be cute...*blush* "You're welcome..." I replied shaking my head in amusement. Heart and I now were outside and on our way to the train station to head home.

****Celestia****

I watched as Twilight and Heart leave, it was adorable to see the banter they had before they even left, I laughed at Heart wondering why Twilight did not bring donuts to share with him...Twilight's reaction was sweet, as was Heart's when she gave him what he asked for...*sigh*...why Heart...why give up on princesses? Why me? *blush* No! I can't think that, but....how can I not?...Also how can I not think of what he said about courting princesses? The memory burned itself into my mind.

~"Well the idea that dating a princess is the source for unrealistic goals, over-ambitious confidence, and....'over-sized ego's'?" I listed off.

"It often is...in my world it is no exception...also I do not think I could handle leading a nation..." he said, "Is that what you think?" I asked looking incredulously, "Yes...I now that I think about I was an idiot to think I could that..."~

It bothered me...and yet, the look in his eyes when he said it...like he was both genuine and lying at the same time, and yet he was clear too....it was a confusing conflict, but it made sense as well...oh Lord, what is it you have planed for him? Also what mare is Heart looking for? I guess...I can only wait.

I decided I wanted a stroll, so I wandered the halls to treat my restlessness, it was then I bumped into Cielo.

"Hello Celestia..." Cielo said looking distracted.

"Hello Cielo, where are you off to?" I asked brushing myself off after our 'collision'.

"Looking for you actually" Cielo said. 

"Why is that?" I asked confused.

"Because I would like to tell you I want to do something" Cielo said.

"What might that be" I asked still curious and confused.

"I want to propose to Luna" Cielo said, "During the Gala" he added. This came as a surprise....oh no....it is going to happen sooner than I thought, I know that Heart has finally made amends but, how much has he made peace with himself is the question, Luna did share her rescue of Heart from his Jealousy, something I wished I had mentioned, but I guess was implied when I told him Luna told me about his and her meeting, but now I face his test....Luna actually being proposed to...

"Uh Celestia?" Cielo called snapping me back into focus.

"Sorry Cielo I was thinking about something...Heart to be exact" I said without thinking. ~Why did you say that?!?~ 

"Really? Bold Heart? Why is that?" Cielo asked.

~Well Tia, you dug your hole, get yourself out~ "I had a meeting with him today, as I told you about before" I said calmly.

"I see, but what about my proposal?" Cielo asked coolly.

"Oh...that...I have no problems with that...I a pleased by this!" I said smiling.

"Good, I was wondering if it was a good time for this" Cielo said warmly.

"The Grand Galloping Gala is a wonderful time to propose to my sister, I will even help you subtly plan it so when you ask her, it will be special" I said proudly, 

"Thank you Celestia, this means a lot" Cielo said.

"Of course! Brother~" I said playfully.

"Thanks Celestia....sister~" Cielo replied back before we laughed and parted ways.

As Cielo left I was lost in thought...this should be cause for celebration...but how Heart will actually take this is the issue I faced, he made his peace...but just how stable is it? I was more panicked than ever!

*Twilight*

We made our way to the station but little was said until we were on the platform waiting for the train in which I asked Heart what happened during his meeting with Celestia.

"So....Heart, what did you and Celestia talk about?" I asked kindly.

"We talked first about the fact of my day as a guard being postponed because of my 'spat' with Luna..." Heart said.

"Oh okay...what else?" I asked.

"A casual talk after that, like how am I doing, and how is my life in Equestria/on Equus treating me" Heart said.

"Oh that was nice of her to talk about..." I said.

*Me*

We during our walk to the station said little until we arrived at the station and Twilight got our tickets then waited, she asked me question and I gave honest answers, though honestly I did not want to share the whole truth of the details I shared with her, and that was my goal...though part of me wanted to just tell her things and not hold back....but that was not going to happen, after my talk with Celestia I was taken a back by Celestia tried to help me make peace further by offering to date me herself...or imply that perhaps Twilight could be an option, since we seem to be bonding closely, but....I made my choice...even though Twilight was not in charge of a nation, I still did not want whatever burdens or perils that would come with her....the whole thing was a quagmire...and I walked myself right into it.....

"Yes, I found it kind of her to be so interested in my welfare" I said, "As she and you and your friends have been since day one" I finished with a small smile.

"Well that is what good friends and good new friends do, common act with Equestrians" Twilight said beaming.

"I gathered, I am blessed by that, a reason I am always amazed by that....because how rare it is back home..." I said looking off in the direction where our train will be coming from, "Well I am glad you show a large appreciation for what is common here" I said.

I simply nodded in response, it was then the train whistled its arrival and we readied to board the moment it stopped and its first occupants disembark, soon we boarded our coach and waited for the train to leave, Twilight brought out our books but we waited til the train moved before we would start reading; as we sat Twilight sighed and relaxed in her seat as did I and while relaxing I took a glance at Twilight to see what she was doing...beside relaxing in her seat, she looked so tranquil...so serene....*sigh*...well...no use thinking too hard on it, I made a commitment, I will not go back on it now....as hard as it is to do so....soon the train shook to life after a sharp shrill, and off it chugged onward to Ponyville. We began to read as we made our way home, and I stuck to my book for a majority of the ride home...then I rested in my seat waiting for the journey to end.

*Twilight*

We said nothing while on the way home, it was clear that little was wanted to be said as we sat comfortably in our seat, though at times I glanced at Heart as he relaxed in his seat, he looked tired yes....but...he looked, more at ease...worn and weary at the same time, he had looked like he had a long day...or was just in thought...either way...he could use some relaxation...or comfort....so I just...

*Me*
Twilight was leaning on me...Twilight was resting on me....Twilight....was snuggling with me....why this happened I did not know, but to say I was unsure would be an understatement as Twilight rested on my shoulder in a snuggling fashion, it was then I asked for an explanation.

"Uh....Twilight?" I asked looking perplexed.

"Mmm....yes Heart?" Twilight said like she had been napping.

"Why are you doing this?" I asked but not in a way to ask her to stop, but to understand why she was resting on me.

"Oh just thought you could use some comforting...plus you are more comfy than just the seat..." Twilight said with a giggle at the end.

"Is that a fact?" I replied also chuckling slightly.

"Mmm...yes..." Twilight said seeming to look like she was falling back to sleep, "What you don't like this?" she said however looking alert and like she was concerned I would be unhappy.

"Oh no...it is just...it was weird a little..." I said.

Twilight seemed to be back at ease after I said this and her body loosened in tension and was resting on me, "Oh okay...just...*yawn* just checking" she said closing her eyes and snuggled on my shoulder before ceasing movement.

"I see that....*chuckle* I will wake you when we arrive" I said warmly. 

"Thank you..." Twilight cooed in reply not moving.

I sighed quietly to myself as I looked at the slumbering Twilight, I chuckled as she looked so comfortable as she rested on me...it really made me question further my commitment plan, and yet...it made me seem to fight me on sticking to it...Twilight is not for me...I feel like she is meant for another....and he was not me. I was so relaxed by Twilight on me I started to drift myself...the rhythm of the train was soothing, and was making me drowsy...my moment of rest with Twilight did not last however when the train started to slow up..."Ponyville Station!" the conductor shouted, "All passengers for Ponyville! Your stop is here!" he said in addition, this woke us up and soon we disembarked to head home, during the walk we were silent, not saying a word the whole way home, upon arriving we continued our day since it was still the morning hour and I then thought that despite my trip I would report to Aj to work for the day since my meeting did not take long; I then did so and off I went.

*Twilight*
I had to admit that sleeping on Heart was awkward...but how he was when I did was....wonderful, he didn't reject it he embraced it, it tingled to think about, it was more awkward when I woke up from my nap than me taking it....but it was...nice, yes that's it! Nice....and...romantic...*deep blush* Oh dear....Heart was off again but this time to work as always, the fact our day had just begun may have had something to do with it, as soon Heart left again and I had Spike and the castle, I then went about my day to day.

*Me*
I went off to work once I inform Aj, I had nothing to attend to, once I arrived I found her and soon was at work. My day went smoothly as always and I was done for the day and I headed to the spa again, and I found Lotus again, she was cheery today and it made me feel good to see her like this, it tells me that she was doing well; soon we shot the breeze and shared a little conversation, she say that Bronze and her are still doing well and she is very happy with him, not much was said after that and I left for Rarity's to see her and tell her how my meeting.

I arrived at Rarity's and knocked at her door and waited for a response.

"Coming!~" Rarity sang from inside, soon after a few seconds the door opened, "Bold Heart! How was your meeting with Celestia and Luna?" Rarity asked, "They went better than I thought actually" I said honestly. ~It also got a little weird....~

"That's wonderful!!" Rarity beamed.

"Yes...*chuckle* It was...something I will remember for a while" I said.

"How so?" Rarity asked cocking her head in a curious fashion.

"For Celestia it just became so casual after the first topic being my first day as a guard being postponed as punishment as you saw in her letter we got yesterday, and Luna it was very casual and we talked a little" I said entering her house after Rarity wordlessly invited me in, "Well that is Celestia & Luna for you" Rarity chuckled.

"Yes, I suppose so...but then you knew them longer than me" I said sitting down on a couch I sat on before.

"True...but now you know that is normal for them" Rarity said.

"I suppose...uh...I am a little thirsty, is there?..." I asked.

"Oh allow me" she said leaving for a moment before returning.

"Here you are darling" she said floating it over to me.

I nodded a thank you before drinking, after I quenched my thirst, asked "How much do you you want to know about the two meetings?" I asked, though honestly I hoped she would not ask for an in depth story, "If you want to, if it was too personal then I will not ask you tell me" Rarity said.

"Maybe...if I feel I would like to later" I said.

"Very well" Rarity said taking a seat.

"I was also wanting to stop by to see how you are" I said.

"Oh~ *laughs* I am well as I can be" Rarity chimed.

"Good...just checking, plus a small chat sounded good..." I said.

"Heart?~" Rarity asked looking at me with a brow raised and a suspicious look.

"What?" I asked secretly nervous.

"There is something you are not telling me~..." Rarity said a damnable sly smile now on her face.

"Excuse me?" I deadpanned.

"Heart~...don't lie to me..." Rarity chided, I was in for it now...I asked for it though I did not want it,
"What makes you think these things?" I asked coolly.

"Darling...a mare knows remember?...Plus you are a little bad at lying..." Rarity cooed her smug grin still present.

"I cry B.S. excuse my mouth" I said a little annoyed.

"You are excused but, you are lying and I know it...better just to get out with it~" Rarity sang teasingly with a knowing smile.

I was less than pleased and she knew it damnably, it was dumb but I guess my paranoia won over and set up a trap I fell into...I hated it, I did not want to admit it, I fought to convince her she was assuming things, but I knew better...plus the honesty pledge was in effect and I had no where to hide anymore...I hated it but I had to say something, lest I get in a deeper hole...damn.....

"What if I have nothing?" I asked countering.

"You don't, you know something and I intend to find out since it is now an issue I will not let you keep private...remember your other secrets you kept??" Rarity said moving in for the kill, "Look how those worked out for you? They got you in trouble....did they??" Rarity added for effect.

"Damn you..." I groaned in a low tone almost under my breathe.

"Now now Heart...I am helping you..." Rarity said soothingly yet sternly.

"Fine..." I sighed, "I will tell you"....

TO BE CONTINUED....