//------------------------------// // Chapter 33: Party For Ponyville // Story: To Equestria And Beyond (Rewrite In Progress) // by NightFurySpeedey8156 //------------------------------// For the Team at Ponyville, they were busy feasting. They were hungry for some of the exotic crystal pony delicacies. Especially the exotic salt that made everything good. "Yum!" Rainbow said. "This is absolutely tasty! We normal ponies have been missing out on so much!" "I must admit this is quite a divine cuisine." Rarity admitted who was eating her food more carefully. "I am quite impressed more and more with this city." "I do wish Fury was here to eat with us. I hope Cadence and Fury will be back to feast with us." Fluttershy said. "And I hope Cadence didn't tear him up too badly to enjoy this." Fluttershy said. "I'm sure they'll be back soon." Rainbow said. "Knowing Fury, he would never miss a feast like this even if it meant he would have to be a slave. I'm sure he'll be right-" The door suddenly opened. "-back." Entering the room was an unscathed Night Fury, his previously hardened pursuer nowhere to be seen. "I'm here, baby! Save me a seat!" "Night Fury, you're back! Where's Cadence?" Twilight asked. "Oh her? Well, let's just say…" Just then, Cadence came into view, covered in spider webbing as she scooted her way into the room like an inchworm. "She got tied up a bit." Fury finished, chucking as he went to take a free seat next to his girlfriend. "I wasn't even able to tickle you this time." Cadence said, scooting on the floor with defeat while trying to remove the web. "So this is what those flies feel like when they've been caught." "A helpless bug caught in the spider's web, such a poetic moment." Celestia chuckled as she used her magic to disintegrate the web from afar and free her niece. Cadence and Fury finally sat down. "I'll get you next time, Fury. Your spider webs won't stop me forever." "Don't worry, I'll just think of something else." Fury smirked. "You have come a long way from that ticklish, defenseless feline I met so long ago, my love. Perhaps you shall become completely impervious to those tricks." Luna said. Fury smiled at her affirmation of his maturity. "Yeah, maybe I will be able to resist those tri- bahahahahaha, hey!" Fury laughed as Luna tickled his side with a wing. "You are very right. Maybe you could become impervious to those tricks, but it is no guarantee. And besides, I shall find new ways." She smirked with a cheeky giggle. "Ha ha… Curses! I guess I can't even trust those I love… How could you?! Such villainous behavior from my own lover, I am devastated!" Fury said dramatically. "That's just how love is, my son." Obsidian said. "Your significant other might deceive you or take advantage of you. Especially when it comes to new exotic jewelry that costs us a lot." He said looking at his wife. "Oh ha ha, very hilarious, dear husband of mine. But your father's right, love is unpredictable. And you have to be ready for any speed bump that could rattle your relationship. Especially since he's done his own mischief." Black Ice said, shooting an unamused glance at her husband. "Such wise words. If I wasn't a solo act, I would probably take you in as a protogè, Black Ice." Cadence said, unaware as to who was currently present. "A solo act, you say? Perhaps our vows were of no importance to you." A new voice said that startled the pink alicorn. "Uh oh… Cadence got caught." Fury said cheekily. Cadence slowly turned around to see her husband standing behind her with an eyebrow raised in suspicion. "Shining, you know I take vows seriously. I would rather stab myself with Sombra's crystals for all eternity than ever replace you!" Cadence said genuinely concerned that Shining thought so. "Well, if that's the case, then you won't mind if I do this." Shining Armor said, pulling Cadence in for a quick kiss. "Heh, I knew you would never do that." "Huh, I guess you're not as naive to the ways of love as I thought, my dear." Cadence said seductively while stroking his cheek. For Fury, he was thankful Luna was distracted by the new pair. And he decided to silently transform into a mouse to escape and to get back to chowing down on his lobster soup. "Oh, not so fast. I know that trick Fury." Luna said, squeezing the mouse. "I'm not done with you yet. Prepare for another punishment." She said, giving him a raspberry on his cheek. "Ah gee, not another one!" After a while it was clear everyone around was laughing at all the shenanigans of the party. Along with the usual romantic teasing, there were attractions: Pinkie and Bulk were doing karaoke together, Swiftly was trying to serenade some crystal mares, and Rainbow was busy chugging down some apple cider with crystal sugar to spike the flavor. "Man, this is an amazing party! If it weren't for me, this whole thing wouldn't be as good." Fury said to himself. Then he heard a strange noise. Hissssss… "Huh? Who's hissing?" He asked himself as he looked around. Hissssss… He looked over to the door and saw Celestia, Luna, and Cadence standing around the corner. He was left a little confused as to why they were hissing, but then he remembered. Our Secret Society Of Silliness call, of course! I almost forgot we set that up. I wonder what they're trying to do? Fury nodded to the royalty who got his attention and smoothly left the room without anyone noticing. The group walked a small distance to another room with a circular table. "Ah it looks like the council has convened. What shall we discuss, my fellow enactors of silliness?" Fury asked. They all had a serious look. As if they were planning a military operation. Celestia took a drink of cider and stoically looked at Fury. Celestia spoke up. "We have convened for an important reason: to commemorate this important occasion." Cadence nodded and continued. "Your great service to Ponyville, a victory at these games that has not happened for centuries, deserves the finest celebration of all." Fury was quite interested. "Excellent. I would like even more fish but considering you called us to this secret meeting, I know that's not why I'm here." Luna nodded. "Yes indeed, my love. To commemorate your great victory we must celebrate in the only appropriate way. Some pranking shenanigans." Luna smiled deviously. "But it must not be just any normal tickling. It must be special." Fury's eyes immediately lit up. Forget the fish! He's ready to prove his worthiness as a prank connoisseur. "I would most appreciate this sacred action. I'm in." Fury said, putting his paw in the center of the table. The others all put their hooves and paw in the center to show their commitment. "But we must ask the important questions." Cadence said. "Who shall we prank, what is our objective, and what is our mission plan?" She treated this like a military operation. "I've got a target…" Fury said, pulling a picture from behind his ear and placing it on a table. "Shining Armor!? Why? He didn't do anything." Cadence asked. "No he didn't. At least that would be the case if he didn't prank me first by replacing my shampoo with pink fur dye last week." Fury explained, showing another picture of him colored completely pink. "Ponies were calling me 'Bubblegum' all weekend." Fury said with a mix of sadness and rage. "He thinks he can get away with a prank like that? Fine. But if one is pranked, only fair balance can be restored and I will get my vengeance." Fury said now smiling evilly, more than usual. Even Cadence had to admit that was an extreme prank that deserved swift justice. "I must admit. I didn't think Shiny had it in him to do that. But everyone is filled with surprises. But for the sake of justice, I shall help, at least for this one action." Cadence said, shaking Fury's paw. "Alright, we have a target. Now the question is, what prank should we pull?" All the princesses pondered. It had to be a big one. "Well first we must ask what gets under Shiny's skin? Cadence?" Celestia asked. Cadence spoke up. "Well he hates seeing his armor get dirty… He hates when others are late… And his biggest pet peeve is disorder within his ranks! It gets on his nerves to no end when his soldiers are slacking off, messing around, or even both." Fury was not surprised at all of this. He had some ideas. "He sounds like someone I can really have fun with." "Yep, there's marching practice in a few hours. That is our chance to strike. The ultimate symbol of organization will be made into chaos." "Now that's something to get with. I can get to the barracks fast enough, so I can get the guards in on the plan." Fury chuckled. "But won't the guards get in trouble?" "Don't worry. I'll explain the whole situation to Shining Armor after the fact before he makes them dig a ditch in the middle of the night. He trusts me." Cadence said. "But for you Fury, you have to make sure you leave no signs for Shining Armor. He might be alert. And not all the soldiers will be mischievous enough to go along. So here's a list of the guards who are, how should we say… troublemakers. Still loyal but they like a good laugh" Cadence handed him a list. Fury was eager to go through with this. "Ah, you've thought this through. For me I have a few prank ideas. Not just dirty armor but also a bit of marching chaos. Perhaps a bit of bad singing too. I'll think of more later." "Then it's settled." Celestia said. "Me and Luna will help Cadence to distract Shining from going into the barracks before it's his time." "You can count on us in this endeavor of utmost importance." Luna said sincerely. "Alright, let's do this!" Fury called out. The group disbanded and went on with their plan. The three royals went back to the party and kept Shining Armor busy as Fury went around to the listed guards who were known for being a little less disciplined, some of those guards even getting the hard cases of the Crystal Guard to join in. By the time everything was ready, Shining Armor was on his way to the training field to begin marching practice and Fury rejoined his fellow members of their secret society, his mother having caught on and decided to join them in their plan to prank the captain. – "Atten-Hut!" All soldiers were at attention. So far so good… Shining Armor said to himself as he inspected their spears, their armor, and their mane cuts. As expected they all seemed perfectly disciplined. Even the mischievous ones seemed all good… Wait. Is that… paint? He painted it green?! Shining was sorely offended by this travesty. Only Rarity would react worse to terrible military fashion. He was ready to teach this private a lesson. "Private Cold Steel, step forward!" He marched forward. "May you please explain to me why your armor is grass green?!" Shining Armor said sternly. Cold Steel kept a straight face and addressed the captain. "This is the armor that I was assigned for this training, sir!" He barked. Shining Armor squinted at the soldier hard. Maybe the forgers were in a bit of a cheeky mood today, that would be the most logical explanation. He thought to himself. "I will let you off with a warning, private. But don't let this become a repeat offense, now step back in line!" The soldier stepped back in line. A few feet away sat the fully gathered secret society watching the exchange,and they were slightly disappointed. "Seriously? Nothing?" Luna asked, perplexed. "I guess he isn't as driven crazy by imperfections as he used to be. Which I guess should be a good thing but not today." Cadence admitted in defeat. "Fury, are you sure this will work?" "Trust me, it'll work. Watch this…" Fury took the opportunity to quickly but silently slip out of the bush they were hiding behind and get behind Shining Armor. "Now, today we will be doing marching practice. I hope you all haven't been slacking off and messing around." He spoke sternly. As he walked up and down the line, Night Fury was tap dancing behind him and getting some of the guards to start snickering. Shining Armor heard this and turned to another soldier. "Is there something amusing about marching practice that you'd like to share?" He asked. The guard shook his head and got Shining Armor to back off. "No sir, just some food I had. That's making me feel strange." The guard said, holding back Snickers of laughter as Fury danced behind the captain. "Well, get a better diet then! Especially before training!" "Sir, yes, heh, sir!" The guard said barely containing his laughter Shining kept on going. Okay, for some reason, my professional guards are acting like children. But maybe now I can finally get this marching practice done already. "Alright, guards! You know the drill! We must march with poise and purpose. Do not falter!" He said, eyeing some of the guards. Just as Shining Armor was about to turn around, Fury attached his final part of his plan to his hooves and quickly hid. "What did you do, Fury?" Black Ice asked. "Oh, just added a little bit of classic humor to this prank. Take a look at what I attached to his hooves." She saw something pink right out of the hooves. Instead of the usual horseshoes, she saw whoopie cushions. She remembered whoopie cushions and all the turmoil she endured from their family dinners back at the village. "Whoopie cushions? That is classic." Celestia giggled. "But rather bothersome. I still remember those family dinners that you just couldn't stop laughing at." Black Ice said with an accusatory grin. Fury grinned back at her and rolled his eyes. "I have no idea what you're talking about." He said innocently. "And these aren't just regular whoopie cushions, these are the new Repeat Rippers I picked up from Ponyville's Prank Emporium. They can go again and again for infinite use. They can even withstand the harsh conditions of marching." Cadence was confused "Wait, why have I not heard squeaking yet? Fury smirked. "These are set to go off at just the right time. And they're a tougher type, so only with enough pressure will they go off. And let's just say… Marching is both this thing's weakness and strength, Heh heh heh." "Guards, atten-hut!" His crystal guards followed their captain's instructions and got into position. "Forward… march!" Everyone marched as planned. So far so good. Finally, Order. Discipline… Frrt! Honor… Frrt! Frrt! Music? Frrt! Frrt! Frrt! Noises? Shining didn't know where that annoying sound was coming from. Was it one of his recruits having an awful diet or fooling around again? However he kept marching, not wanting to have another interruption. He will find out- Frrt! And teach them a lesson later. "Hup *frrt* two,*frrt* three,*frrrrt* four!" To Shining's dismay he saw some of his guards grinning. He thought he saw one chuckle! The nerve! This is supposed to be the renowned and feared Crystal Guard of legends?! Shining said with a face of pure rage. Meanwhile, the ponies and Speed Shifters in the bushes were laughing at the childish noise on repeat. "Wow, your husband's face is turning red like a chili pepper!" Fury pointed out. "He looks like Twilight if you gave away her Daring Do books." "Ah, I guess the genes run in the family. Especially the father, who loves organization. But I think he's about to snap." Cadence said, right on cue. "Enough!!!" The captain of the guard cried out, causing his guards to stop their show of amusement. "Is this how you conduct yourselves?! By acting like eight year olds?! You are the Crystal Guard, our foes are supposed to fear and respect us! How can we do that if you chatter like a… a… a…" Shining stopped talking for a moment. He felt something inside of him. "W-what's going on?!" Shining said in an uncomposed voice of panic. "Where's the restroom?!" He cried out. One of the guards pointed him to a crystalline gift shop. Shining didn't even say thanks and just rushed right in. "I didn't do that one, what was that?" Fury asked. This time, it was Luna who had a say in the prank. "I may have spiked his pre-training coffee brew with a bit of black magic. And by black magic, I mean I spiked his usual decaf with a few hefty pumps of high power espresso." The nocturnal princess giggled. Cadence's jaw dropped. "Aunt Luna! Shining is very sensitive to that coffee! His bowels cannot handle all that force!" "Exactly, which makes it all the more funny." Celestia said, giggling herself. Cadence was appalled by her aunt's lack of sympathy, but then turned to suspicion as she gave a glare. "You all didn't happen to add one extra phase to the prank behind my back, did you?" She asked. "We may have conspired with Black Ice and Night Fury to help me with it." Celestia admitted. "Yep, oh and she forgot. Mom added… some of her herbs." Fury said deviously. Cadence was surprised. She always saw herself as the pranker leader. But she never knew Black Ice could put in something so vile, whatever it was. She almost feared them. Until she laughed out loud at all of this. "Oh wow, you guys are too much! You've really done it, I must say!" Cadence said, not able to contain herself. "Shh, here he comes!" Fury whispered, pointing to the returning captain that looked like he had been to Tartarus and back. "Ohhhh!!! It's over. It's done." Shining said, giving deep breaths as he was still not feeling quite like himself. "Sir, are you okay?" said his second in command. "What makes you think I'm fine, I just had my bowels eject themselves at terminal velocity!" Shining barked in pain. "Well sir, perhaps it's you who could use a change in diet." The second in command joked. "Don't start with me, corporal." Shining said, trying to compose himself. "Now, we're going to pretend none of this toilet business ever happened. I just figured out someone put these whoopie cushions on my horseshoes! I am going to find the perpetrator in my ranks if I have to lose a leg!" Shining grumpily marched to his guards and stared them down. Then, he heard a voice ring out. "Oi, how about you flick that switch in ya noggin and do something with that peanut-sized brain of yours, ya wallop!" Said Fury from afar, leaving Shining Armor just that little more ticked off. "Who said that?! Which one among you wretches said that?!" He only heard silence. "It's your conscience, ya ponsie! Take a hint and stop being a mullard, ya snot for brains!" Fury said. "I am your Captain! I have trained you in the art of warfare. And this is how you repay me?!" "Um sir, are you okay?" "Yes I'm perfectly fine. Do I look upset?!" Shining said with a horrifying expression. "N-no." The corporal hesitated. "It's just that… uh… not to question your mental stability, sir, but I see nopony's mouth moving." The corporal said. Shining was shocked he could still hear the voices. But everyone was completely still. What was going on? "Is this… some sort of… psychological warfare against me? Is Chrysalis making her return?! Did she infect my breakfast?!" "Nope, just you being oblivious! You bulky, gender-swapped Sapphire Shores!" "Someone give me an answer! What is happening to me?! I need answers!" Shining yelled out. "Why are my professional guards acting so silly? Why are there whoopie cushions and bathroom trips? And why in Tartarus is there a voice calling to me?!" Shining ranted. Cadence looked at the Speed Shifter doing his work. "Okay Fury, I think my husband has had enough." "Aww, come on! Just one more?" Fury begged. "Fury…" "Ugh, fine…" Fury leaped in front of him. "It is I, you big oaf! None other than the Speed Shifter, Night Fury!" Shining Armor did a double take. "Fury? Wait. Why are you involved in this?!" "Oh, it's not just me, lover boy. I've got a team by my side! Ladies, you're up!" Fury called out, the rest of his 'Crew' popping out of the bush. "Greetings, Captain." Celestia proclaimed. "We haven taken notice of your marching practice today." Luna said. "And we decided to have a bit of… fun, dear." Cadence said. "So we came up with a fun little prank series to throw at you." Added Black Ice. Shining was shocked. "Wait… those voices, those whoopie cushions, they were all you?!" "Even the messy armor." Fury added. "And I may have gotten some of your guard in on it too." "So, that's why my renowned Crystal Guard has acted like a bunch of school foals. Now everything makes sense." Shining said a bit unamused. "Cadence, did Fury blackmail you into throwing this prank on me at training of all times? If he did, I have a few words for-!" "Woah, hit the brakes, Shiny! He didn't try to persuade anypony. As a matter of fact, I was the one who got the idea to do it in the first place." Cadence admitted. Shining Armor was left speechless at that. His own beautiful honorable wife, a prankster? To be fair, she was a bit silly back in their teenage years. But now, as a respectable ruler? "You did?! But but but but-" "Uh, Shining, do you need new batteries?" Cadence asked. Fury did a spit take at that joke. "Why?! Why would you do this to your old husband?! Is this about when I was hours late for our dinner because I was watching a military reenactment? Is it because I was busy shining my armor instead of watching a movie with you?" "Wow, he really is uptight like Twilight. And calling himself old? Now I would have thought that I would be the one to call him that, but to do it himself? The self deprecation is real." Fury commented. Cadence simply chuckled. "Shining, you're thinking too hard about this as usual. You really are Twilight's brother. But no, I just wanted to have a celebration for Fury's triumph and the best way I could think of was with a classic prank. And you Shining, were the perfect pony for that." "And it sure did work! I feel super special now! It's like I was hanging out with the older sisters I never had!" Fury said to everyone's surprise. Shining was now understanding of it. He calmed down a bit but was still a little annoyed. "I understand now. But couldn't you have waited after my training session?" "Shining, let me tell you. You need to take a break from that stuff. You've barely had time to relax and smell the roses. Life isn't just about marches, you know, honey?" Cadence said sincerely. Black Ice nodded. "Agreed. I had to learn that the hard way. I was so uptight I forgot to just have fun. I guess ever since my family lost our home, I was always hard on myself and others. That's why I helped as unlikely as that might seem. To give myself a chance to have fun again." "Yeah, mom's right. Just look at me! Like seriously, how do you think ponies would have looked at me if I was like my mom? Uptight, always focused on perfection, never letting myself slip to maintain some fake honor code that I held myself to? Where do you think my popularity would be now?" Fury said. Shining started to understand now. He appreciated it a bit more. "I'm still gonna have to clean up that armor though. And I wish I still had my moment to shine in this prank war. Shining said. "I doubt it, you're too strict. Why do you think we left Twilight out of it? For all we know, she'd probably spend most of her time calculating the optimal time frame and precise movements to make this prank an 'Optimal exchange'. " Fury joked. Shining chuckled at that. "Well at least I'm not as bad as Twilight." "Yes, and that's why I love you." Cadence said, walking over and kissing her husband on the cheek. "But back to what Fury said earlier… Fury, you think of me and my aunts as older sisters?" "Yeah, I guess I do. I never had any siblings, just a few friends and maybe the occasional cousin. But yeah, you three kinda feel like the three older sisters I never had back home." Fury said smiling. "I would never have imagined ponies so fun and ready to have fun like you. I thought princesses would be stoic and no fun, but not you girls! You girls are cool!" Fury said with the energy of an actual younger brother. The three princesses felt warm in their chests at the compliment, they never knew that Fury felt so close to them. "We are forever grateful." Celestia said. "But to answer Shining, do not worry, one of us will clean all that stuff up while you and your stallions get a vacation. And I think I know who." Everyone looked toward Cadence. "Seriously? All of you?" "You are his wife, Cadence. And you admitted you were the one to come up with this plan. I say it's only fair of you to repay what you owe." Said Luna with a smirk. Shining Armor chuckled. "Sorry dear. But I agree with that." But then Shining looked to the others. "However, I think it might be worthwhile if you all played your part too. Like you, Fury. I think I have a special reward for you." "You touch me, you'll be drinking hay smoothies through a straw for a month." Fury deadpanned. "Oh I won't do so. Others might though. Celestia! Luna! I was going to eat this delicious cake and moonpie. But if you do me a favor I might just give them to you." he said with a smirk. "It has extra cherries and blueberries. With some exotic sweet crystals." "Ehh, go ahead. I'm not exactly in the mood for it anyway." Fury said, unfazed. "Here are the conditions, you two." Shining said. "If you put this silly clown makeup on Fury. Then I will give you this tasty cake. The guards like seeing clowns to entertain them. So why not give them entertainment?" He said with an evil smirk rivaling Fury's. This got Fury's attention as his eyes popped wide. "Whoa whoa! Look, I can clean your armor. I can serve you as a butler for a week. I can- Wait, why am I begging for mercy when I don't have to stand here and take this?" Fury realized, his fangs starting to expose themselves. "Everyone knows that I don't take nonsense from anypony, so why should I start with you?" Fury said as he slowly started to move. "Oh is that a challenge, Speed Shifter?" Shining said, also slowly moving. "I guess it just might be." Fury said. "I like jokes but being a clown is too much pal. Even I wouldn't go that far with you. And besides, Cadence did tell me about a little sparring match between you and me while she was on vacation in Canterlot with me and my parents." "Wait she did? W-whatever do you mean?" Shining said, a bit worried. "Wait, she didn't tell you? Oh that just makes this better. You see, Cadence and I had a little bit of a… rivalry during that vacay, pulling pranks and practical jokes on each other until one of us broke. And one day, she brought up the idea of you and I having a little match after I made a joke about your relationship. So now that you're sounding like you grew a pair, how about we reinstate that little argument?" "Heh heh heh." Shining Armor chuckled confidently. "If it's a challenge to regain my honor, then I will gladly resume our argument. I just hope you'll be ready. Because I won't be going easy on you." "As if I was going to do the same…" Fury said with a cocky smirk. Fury and Shining both gazed into each other ready for their challenge of honor. They both were eager for this. They circled a small area between each other, giving hard glares to their opposite as they planned their first moves. Then… Fury went for it. He immediately shot forward and got behind Shining Armor, jumping up and kicking him in the back of the head with enough force to launch him a good few feet. "Ooooh!" Went the guards, watching as their captain's body flopped to the ground. "Ooh, that felt good! It's been too long since I landed a good hit on someone! Let's see how long you stand up to me." Fury said as he raced towards Shining Armor. The royal guard captain saw this and ignited his horn, forming a pyramid shield around him. But Fury anticipated this and transformed into a mole to go underground. "What, where'd he go?" Shining asked himself. But he would soon find out as Fury reappeared inside the pyramid shield and slammed his paws into Shining's back, dissipating the shield and knocking him down with enough force that he bounced off the hard ground and back into the air. Fury took this chance to reposition at Shining Armor's side, charging one of his paws with energy before punching his opponent, sending him flying into the crystal wall nearby and creating a powerful crater that instantly bruised the captain. "Gahhh!" Shining cried out a bit reeling from the pain. "You're pretty strong with your magic, Shining. But even that is no match for some clever tricks." Fury said walking toward Shining. Shining got up with a determined look on his face. "Oh really? Can your tricks resist this energy beam?!" Shining said, charging his horn and shooting at Fury. "Let me teach you how we do it at the Academy." Fury stood there with a blank expression, not feeling fazed by his opponent. The energy beam came closer to him, nearing his location before Fury just stuck up his paw and caught it like a ball, a shockwave pulsing around him from the impact. Fury didn't move, his face blanker than a void. "Too bad, I don't care." Fury said as he flicked the ball of energy back at Shining Armor with one claw. But instead of being a blockable attack, it was more powerful, sending him flying backwards so fast that the original crater in the wall became deeper and the ground shook. BOOOOOOOOMMMMM!!! Everypony around was shocked at this sight. They couldn't believe their eyes. Fury just tossed a fairly powerful unicorn beam right back at the caster like he was playing a game of catch. Cadence was especially shocked. She had seen Shining Armor leave his soldiers near crippled during training, but now he was the one looking like he was going to leave with life-changing injuries. "Shining! Are you alright?!" Cadence cried out. "Ughhhh…" She saw the rocks levitate out of the way, revealing a Shining that was heavily breathing and fairly bruised. "Yeah, but just barely. Oh boy…" He looked at Fury. "Normally that beam would put 50 of my soldiers in the hospital. How were you able to resist my beam?" "Simple. Look at my paw." Fury directed. Shining Armor followed his lead and saw that Fury had created an electric barrier around his paw to practically eliminate the force of the beam. Fury continued to speak. "I wasn't really in the mood to see some wannabe, life sized, royal guard action figure try to put up a fight. So let me make this clear. If you even try to get disrespectful with me, I'll bust you up so badly that even Celestia will say her own name in vain." He said bluntly. "I see." Shining said. "You really have gone far. I've underestimated you. I thought you were just a rookie. Is that why you personally wanted to prank me? To teach me a lesson for all the times I belittled you and said how you were not as great as the Royal Guard?" "Rookie? Maybe a few months ago. Teach you a lesson? Yes. That nopony, not even the husband of the pony who gave me the permission to even step foot on this land, is exempt from my ways of dealing with disrespect. Whether that be by argument or hoof to paw combat, ain't nopony in my sights are on my list for letting it slide. Because let me tell you, these paws are rated E for everyone." He said, his tone not changing as he spoke hard and firm. Shining was silent at first but then he spoke. "I… I apologize for looking down upon you. I guess me being a Captain of the Royal Guard and being part of an important Canterlot family made me arrogant and strict. I promise I will not let you down again. You deserve respect. You have my word on the honor of the Crystal Empire." Fury watched as not only Shining bowed to him, but the guards lined up behind him saluted him. Fury felt satisfied with the amount of respect he was getting, but even then, he kept his emotions in check and stood firm with a straight face. "Thank you all, I appreciate the respect. Let's just make sure that this doesn't have to be demonstrated again." Fury said. Shining nodded to him. Fury then relaxed. "But I will say, that was a nice shield you had there. If I didn't know how to transform, I probably would have lost. So you still did quite good. Although this does show you probably still need some more training. It looks like you've gotten rusty." Fury said bluntly. "In fact, if you need it, I would be happy to show you some Speed Shifter energy techniques. Even if we Shifters can't shoot out beams, if you control it better, your beam can come out quite better." Shining smiled. "Well if you were able to go from rookie to this powerful in only a year, then I think I would be foolish to say no. Very well. You're now welcome to the barracks to teach my stallions these new moves." "Cool, that sounds great." Fury said. "Hey, something's not right…" Cadence spoke up. "What wrong, Cadence?" Shining asked, a little perplexed. Cadence then walked up to Fury and looked him over. "Fury's not smiling like he usually does, that's not good." She said, looking Fury in the eyes. "What do you mean, I am smiling." "Not the way I know you do. Maybe I have to fix you?" Cadence pondered, observing him. "What do you mean exactly, Cady? What makes you think I'm so different now? I'm just going about my business." Fury asked with curiosity. Cadence further clarified. "You seem a bit different. It's hard to explain but you have a different attitude." "Different attitude? Fix me? What are you getting at?" Fury asked, starting to get suspicious of the pink alicorn looking him over. "Like maybe you need to relax now. Chill. And I have a special treatment for you, my friend." She said with twirling her hooves around. "I am going to really fix you and put a big smile on your face." Fury was now nervous. "I… don't like the sound of this." He walked back. "Which sounds better? Being tickled or wearing a clown outfit? Your choice. And you do have to make a choice, cause I'll make ya if you don't." Cadence said in a flying position. "Oh no…" Fury was now nervous, his choices not sounding good either way. "I doubt either of those choices will suffice." Luna spoke up. "But I do have an alternative." Luna then started to whisper in her niece's ear, her smile growing as she heard the alternative. "So your lady friend has an alternative proposal. How would you like some… cuddles?" "No no no! I do not want… Wait, cuddles? What are you saying?" He asked, confused. Luna spoke up. "Fury, you've given us massages and cared for our wants for a while, it's only fair we repay the favor. We want to give you the massage of a lifetime. Unless you would rather dance like a clown…" Before she could even think of something else, Fury jumped on her back and wrapped his paws around her neck in a hug. "Take me away, my lovely pony of the night." He cooed. Luna smiled and kissed him. "My pleasure, my lightning bug." Celestia then asked. "Shall we go now or later?" Fury reached over and grabbed her by her cheeks, pulling her in until they were nose to nose. "Do not delay this dream any further, let us go now." Fury transformed into a housecat hanging tightly onto Luna's neck. With that all three princesses flew back to the palace. Shining waved farewell to them and wished them luck. Night Fury, you are one lucky cat. – The princesses soon reached the palace, coming up to the balcony that stretched off of Cadence's personal quarters. They entered through the glass doors and sat in a rough circle, Luna using her magic to levitate the cat on her back to the center. Fury walked and plopped down on the bed, he was after all a bit exhausted from all the pranks and battle he had with Shining. "I don't know girls… Can you match my masseuse techniques?" Fury dared his princess friends and girlfriend. "No need to try and replicate your techniques, we have our own. So let's get started with this repayment, shall we?" Luna said. Fury had his limbs out so he could get massaged. Luna made him even more eager to see what would happen. "Okay, just relax and let the tension leave you." Luna said as she started work on his back. Fury could tell that she removed her slippers for this, to give him the best experience. Fury felt the kinks get rolled out and the knots get untied as Luna worked him up and down. Then, his body started to passively glow. "Woah, is that normal?" Cadence asked, a little concerned. "Completely natural. Just like unicorns and alicorns, Speed Shifters have to learn how to contain and control their energy flow. Mostly as a safety measure to prevent any accidents. But this energy is completely harmless. It's just a sign that my aura is free and loose as my body relaxes. Nothing to worry about." Fury explained. Cadence was interested now. "Ah, maybe I can use these techniques on my own husband. Luna mind if I get a little practice with our Speed Shifter friend?" "Please, be my guest." Luna said, moving aside to let Cadance squirm in. Cadence squeezed his lower back. She learned from Luna and Fury. And she had some experience being married to Shining with this, so she gave an even more thorough massaging than Luna. "Ooh, that is good… I'm guessing the marriage gave you a bit of experience, not to mention the whole 'Love Princess' thing." Fury sighed, resting his head between his front legs. "I suppose it does, doesn't it? I do have my ways in pleasure and joy, so how does it feel?" Cadence asked, getting a little smug. "Oh yeah yeah yeah, ahwoo! This really hit the spot. But uh… not as much as Luna's." Fury quickly added to not make her jealous. "Good." Luna said. Celestia came over. "You ladies think you are so experienced with massages? Well I have much experience with strength and power in war. So I think I am ready to make my mark today." "Okay Celestia, lets see what you've go- ohhh, sweet mother of mercy…" Fury was completely paralyzed as Celestia took her turn and used her own technique. "Heated hooves? Ohh, that's genius." He cooed, his body really starting to loosen up. "One must be creative when trying to fight supernatural enemies. And in this case your kneads are my enemy so… BE GONE TENSION!" Celestia pressed hard on Fury's legs. "Yaaahahahaow!" Celestia could see the slight red where she pressed on Fury. "Was that too much, Fury?" "A little sunburn never hurt me… At least not yet. And besides, I feel amazing!" Fury said as he practically melted. "So when's the cuddling starting?" Cadence shrugged her shoulders. "I don't know, maybe today, maybe tomorrow, maybe when you least expect it… NOW!" Cadence immediately fell on Fury's left side, Celestia his right and the most beloved Luna on his back. "And that is a cuddle pile." Cadence said. Any questions?!" "Nope, you all feel like a giant fuzzy blanket from down here." Fury said, his body almost completely covered. "You really are a little lightning bug, you're so small and tiny compared to us." Luna said, nuzzling the top of his head. "You know what would make this even better? The sound of laughter." Celestia suggested. "Um… is it okay if I say no?" Fury asked, already knowing what they would do. "Fury, you are caught in-between three of the most powerful beings in Equestria. I doubt you'd be able to get away as is." Cadence smirked. "Yeah I guess I'm toast." Fury admitted. "Well, have at me then." "With pleasure!" Luna said as she plopped down and snuggled by Fury along with the other princesses. Fury felt warmth and fuzzy fur. He knew he hit the jackpot for comfort. He started to purr like he usually did and relaxed, he felt like he was in his most wanted dream. "Do you still wish to escape our wrath, Fury?" Cadence asked. "Or have you accepted your helplessness?" "Helpless? Oh no no no, not today! And besides, you three always tease me about being ticklish… why not give you a taste of your own medicine?!" Fury then disappeared… The princesses wondered where he had scurried off to or even how he disappeared. "Where could he be?" Cadence asked. "We had him in our firm grip." "Yeah, but clearly not firm enough." said a black hamster on Celestia's back. Celestia realized they just got outdone by him. "And now for letting me escape, you must pay the toll." Fury said, transforming into an anaconda. He quickly slithered around the three princesses before they could even react. He then pointed his slack tail at Celestia. "Prepare for some retribution!" Fury's tail roughed up Celestia in her tickle spots. Even the princess of the sun was no match. "No, please stop!" Celestia laughed while crying. "Yeah I'll give you a break cause I have to move to lover girl here." He said tickling Cadence. "Oh gosh oh gosh! Ha ha! You really are experienced with this! Ha ha!" Cadence admitted. "And finally we move onto my last victim." Fury said to Luna. "Well Moonpie, any last words?" "This act shall not be left alone without repercussions!" Luna called out. "Such a futile effort. I fear not what you may attempt in the future for I shall be ready. Now silence as I deliver the final blow!" Fury decided to be fancy and wiggle his tail near Luna just to mentally torture with the anticipation of what was to come and then… "HA HA HA HA HA! I DEMAND YOU STOP IMMEDIATELY! I AM THE PRINCESS OF THE NIGHT!" "And I'm your boyfriend, so I have rights that nopony else has! Nothing you can do now but fall to me!" Luna was being driven to her limit. Fury was much more intense with her than the others. It was almost a torture. But even Cadence could see the passion was causing him to go all the way. "You can't ssssssstop me now, I've got the advantage. Whatcha gonna do, huh?" Fury boasted and hissed, his confidence at a high. "Oh, we'll show you what we can do. C'mere!" Luna's eyes glowed and a newfound strength allowed one of her legs to escape her lover's clutches. She grabbed Fury's tail and twirled it around. And she pressed on his tail. Luna now was the one chuckling. "You were saying, Lightning Bug? Are you ready for my next payback?" Fury transformed back and looked up at his lover, her eyes filled with vengeance. He then looked to the two other royals down at his rear paws and they had the same look. "Oh boy, you're not gonna go easy on me are you?" They all simply shook their heads. "Well, crud." Then what followed was even more tickles in all of Fury's tickle spots. All three together. The trifecta of tickles. "Curses! Ha ha ha! Foiled again! Ha ha ha!" "You should not underestimate us, young one." Celestia said. "We are familiar with the art of tickles. This is how it must go." "Ha ha I see that! You can stop now! Please!" Fury begged. All three of his attackers heard his plea and released their grip on him. Unfortunately, this only led to a pouty face and a frustrated huff. "Hmfp! Why do I always have to be at a loss? It's not fair." He whined, his expression like a child being told it's their bedtime. "Oh do not worry, my love. You tried your best. But you must realize when you go all the way. Expect a reaction. A big reaction." Luna said. "Yeah I know I know." Fury said, still pouting. "Oh, don't look so glum. Come on, where's that smile?" Cadence asked, her question only falling on deaf ears as Fury's mood didn't change. Then Celestia had an idea. An idea she had when she would cheer Luna up as a filly. She whispered to the others. The others smiled and nodded. Celestia talked to him. "Fury. Is there something wrong with my face? I need your input." "Huh, what are you talking- what is that look?!" Fury said with disbelief. Celestia looked like one of those faces Fury would see decorating his parents house. Seeing it for real was ridiculous. "What the heck is that?! You look like a goose!" Cadence interrupted. "If you think that's bad then get a load of this!" Cadence showed herself looking like an old mare like Granny Smith. "I never knew you could be so old!" Fury said, his mouth starting to twitch upwards. It's working, he's starting to smile! But it also looks like he's trying to hold back… Celestia said to herself as she observed Fury's expression. For Luna, she gave the very last coup de grat. "Fury, might I ask for your opinion of my new look?" Fury turned to her not knowing what to expect. His mouth dropped and was beyond surprise. Luna looked like… "My mom? What?" Fury said. "Yes Fury! Why are you here?! You should be cleaning your room! You should stay away from that music you listen to! Do I make myself clear you shifter!? And stop that giggling! It is disrespectful to me!" Luna said with an eerily similar impression of Black Ice. Fury's cheeks turned red and he started to snicker, his mind flashing back to moments in his childhood where his mother did say those things. Cadence saw his attempt to hold back and decided to add to it. "Come on Fury, you know you want to laugh." She said softly in his ear. Fury tried to resist, but she pushed harder. "Laugh." And harder… "Come on~" And harder… "Giggle giggle, fuzzball~" Until he finally broke. "Bahahahahahaha!" He laughed as hard as possible, going even beyond the Royal Canterlot voice this time. It was so loud others outside wondered what that laughter was. "There's that silly smile we love to see! Hehe, look at him go." Cadence said as she and her fellow royals watched him giggle and laugh. Fury laughed so much that he started to glow and transform. But this time, he turned into something that none of the princesses around him expected. Fury had shrunk in size and regressed into a Speed Shifter cub the size of an average filly, his giggles sounding more child-like as he squirmed in-between Luna's forelegs. "Ha ha ha! Sorry mom! I do what I want! I live on the edge. Doing my own thing!" Cub Fury said to Luna. "How dare you, young cub! Go to your room!" "Nope! I'll just chill here with my new princess friends!" Fury said in laughter. Fury finally transformed back to his adult form and was still laughing a bit. "Oh, Moonpie, I didn't know you were an actress! You gave a better impression of my mother than my mother would be willing to give!" Fury admitted. "Well, mimicking others is one of the techniques we used against our enemies in the old days." Luna said. "It's only natural." "And I wasn't lying when I said I could chill with my princess pals. But you Moonpie…" Fury tenderly kissed Luna. "You're my pal and lover for life." Cadence and Celestia were touched by the loving display of the two. Fury and Luna were perfect for each other. And Celestia knew she could trust Fury to love her. And for both to entertain each other through very strange imitations. "Do you feel happy now, Fury?" Luna asked, embracing her lover. Fury nodded. "You betcha! Your weird expressions brought a smile to my face and I hope my antics entertained you." Luna nodded. "You were very cute as a cub." She chuckled. "I guess I was back then. Although I preferred to be called fierce and mighty back then." Fury chuckled. "You're both." Luna said. "Right back at ya!" Fury winked. Cadence then spoke up. "So then we had a lot of fun. I am sure Ponyville is thankful for you winning those games. I'm glad you had a lot of fun in this exotic strange place despite the… questionable creatures in this competition." "Eh, every place has those creatures. Even in my village." Fury said. "But where will you go now?" Celestia asked. "Are you going back to Ponyville soon?" "I suppose so, I have things to work out on my schedule. My work as an ambassador, that meeting with the duke and duchess of Maretonia Twilight told me about, my birthday coming up, my talks with-" "Wait wait, back it up!" Cadence called out. "What was it that you said?" "My talks with Fluttershy about my species?" Fury answered. "No, before that!" "My… birthday?" Fury inquired, confused by her sudden interest. "Yes, that! It will be your birthday soon?! I was not aware!" Cadence said with both shock and excitement. "Oh yeah, I guess I forgot to tell you guys. My birthday is in about a month and I'm thinking of having a party." "Oh well it's not that much sooner, but still. When your birthday does come, expect some great time and great presents." Celestia said. "Oh I know I will." Fury then did a stretch. "Maybe I oughta go get some shuteye soon. This has been one of the greatest days of my life. I finally showed those jerks back in my village I can really win with flying colors. And it's nice to help out another village." "I hope you are ready for those times ahead." Celestia said. "And I wish you luck with those dukes." "Uhh… you do realize they're coming here and we're all meeting them, right?" Cadence reminded her aunt. "I've had their arrival and the preparations on my schedule for weeks!" "Of course. Still, I just want Night Fury to be ready for them. They can be quite a hoof full after all. I should know." "Eh, I'm sure I can handle it no problem. I've dealt with it before, I can do it again." Fury said. "I won't let a bunch of fancy pants ponies scare me." Celestia put a hoof on his shoulder. "In that case, have a good sleep, Fury. And be ready for an even greater future ahead." Fury smiled at this. "You got it, Tia. And see you too, Cady. And especially my Moonpie…" He gave her one last kiss. "And uh… please don't tell my mom about that imitation thing, she'll go ballistic for days." "Agreed, it will be our little secret." Luna said. "Farewell, my love." And with that, Fury went off to head back home. Today was a day that many of the creatures involved would remember. Some have pleasant memories, some more painful. But either way, The Equestria Games were a time to have fun and share amazing moments between friends and family that would last for years. But even so, life is not complete without its drawbacks. As not only Fury, but the entirety of Equestria would soon find out. "Soon, Speed Shifter, soon. You shall see." A cloaked figure said watching secretly through a glass ball as the Speed Shifter left the castle.