//------------------------------//
// Chapter 48: Keeping It Cool At The Capital (Or At Least... Trying To) 
// Story: To Equestria And Beyond (Rewrite In Progress) 
// by NightFurySpeedey8156 
//------------------------------//

Fury was sitting on his bed with a tired expression. He had just woken up in one of Canterlot Castle’s bedrooms and was still a little groggy. He remembered his night with the princesses and smiled softly at the sweet moment he shared with them, showing them the beauty that was his magnificent fries. 

It was a time he wished that didn't have to end. But then, the smell of morning musk caught his sensitive nose and made him recoil a bit.

Yeesh! What a stink! I haven't had this much of a smell in the morning since I was just getting out of highschool. Well, time to get up and go.

And so with a beastly sounding snarl and a bit of a grunt, he got up and went out to find a bathroom.

–

In the castle halls, the light of the morning sun burned his vision, his ears covering his peripheral vision to shield them from constant damage. Usually, he wouldn't have a problem with waking up before the sun rose above the horizon. But today, he actually slept in. Perhaps this was the result of feeling less burdened by his work, no longer having to think about the responsibility of maintaining his position and allowing himself to be a bit lazy.

As he walked ahead, he saw what looked like a bathroom door to his right. It wasn't guarded and it was decorated with a white paint and gold metal accents. He stopped and stared at it, his blurry morning vision not allowing him much perception of what it was. Despite his drowsiness, he had to freshen up for the day and tried to walk in…

Keyword: Tried.

The door was actually locked from the outside. He tried jiggling the knob and giving it a little force, or at least whatever strength his sagging body would allow, but no dice.

Why on earth would it be locked from the outside, let alone at all? What's this castle trying to protect? the soap?

Feeling annoyed, Fury took to his resources and thought of a way to get in. Then he grinned as an idea flowed into his mind. He extended a claw and began to pick at the lock. From his juvenile days, he always seemed to know how to get anywhere. Whether in or out, he knew a route or way to get there. And locks were of no challenge to him, especially with the reinforcement of his father's smithing knowledge.

After a few seconds of prying at the lock, even with his tired mind and blurry eyes, he cracked it. Giving a huff of confident laughter to himself, he opened the door and went inside. But little did he know, a pony of great power was already up and awake with the same idea of freshening up for the day. And so it would seem, they were headed to the same place. 

As he walked inside, his bleary eyes caught sight of the most overkill bathroom he had ever seen. Waterfalls flowed around a pool sized bathtub, ambiance sang through the room to set the mood, massage tables with pillows in two very recognizable colors. It was like paradise that you could step into every day.

He wished he had the energy to even gasp at the scene, but he hasn't even had breakfast yet so he didn't care. Walking over to a full body mirror, he got a good look at himself. Finally deciding to rub his eyes of the blur, he looked at his messy fur, dull claws, kinked tail and although not so bad, slightly yellow teeth.

“Ugh, what a sight. I look like I got into a fight… with myself.” He said in a deep morning voice. He then looked at the rest of his figure, past his messy exterior. His muscles were filling in very nicely and his belly seemed to have shrunk a good bit. All of the workouts with Shining Armor seemed to be working nicely.

“Man, despite the nasty exterior, I'm looking solid. And this mirror captures it all. This bathroom sure has its perks. I wonder why I needed such a large place all to myself?”

“Oh, I don't think this was for you.” A voice said behind him. Fury's eyes shot open, his body going rigid and all of the drowsiness temporary leaving his body. Just then, a large shadow was cast over him. He gulped so loudly, it almost echoed. He dared not turn around, but the mirror had all but no secrets to keep as a quad of white, un-shoed hooves stood parallel to his. From that view, he knew that whoever this was wasn't just behind him, they were standing over him.

“Um, hello Celestia. Um, what a coincidence that you just happen to be here. I guess it would… explain the door being locked.” Fury said, wondering if Celestia was peeved at how he broke in and picked her bathroom's lock. “So, this is your bathroom? It looks more like a pool at a hotel honestly.”

“A princess must have a space worthy of her stature. Now, I must commend you for being able to crack the lock on my specially made impenetrable, uncrackable door. It must take a lifetime of breaking into places you're not supposed to be in order to figure that out.”

“Heh heh heh you got that right! I suppose it's a sort of art form.” Fury said with pride, but then he remembered he was in Celestia's bathroom. “But just to be clear, I wasn't trying to be a Peeping Tom, you know? My heart is only for your sister. N-not that I would peep on her, I mean! I respect her privacy! Although she rarely keeps secrets from me, which is fine in any sense-”

“Fury! Please! It's alright.” Celestia said with a yawn. “You don't need to panic. I'm tired after all. And I know for all your mischief, you would never disturb me and my sister like that.”

“Plus, I saw how bleary and saggy you were. You looked like you could barely see those… rather dull claws of yours right in front of your face. I don't take any harsh feelings with that in mind, you probably couldn't tell what was what.” Celestia reassured him. Fury took the chance to let out a sigh of relief and sagged back down as the morning grogginess seemed to catch up with him.

He turned around to finally face the solar princess and got a look at her. But this time, she was different. She was without her regalia, looking more like a wild mare than a princess. Her mane did not flow like it usually did, but it rather sagged and draped over her face.

“Wow, I've never seen you like this. You look so… natural. Untamed, unrefined, depressurized.” Fury said.

“When you're in the public eye, you have to compose yourself and to not look unblemished. But it does take a number out of you. But here, in this private room, I can just relax and just take a nice break.” Celestia said. “And I even have my own friends, like these rubber duckies.” She said, quacking one of them.

Fury felt more relaxed now and chuckled. “Yeah, I guess this is a nice place to just destress. But something's off… This place is so big, and I know somepony like you is practically allergic to being alone in such a large room.” Fury said, going into a sort of detective mode.

He then gasped at his realization. “Wait… if this place is so big, that means that you share baths with-”

“Good morning, sister. I see you've gotten to freshening up for the day-” Just inside the doorway, a familiar face stopped on the marble floor. Stunned, Princess Luna herself stood silenced by the surprising sight of her boyfriend being inside the bathroom she and her sister often shared.

Fury cracked an awkward smile, not even taking into consideration his unbrushed fangs. “Eheh, morning babe.”

The dark alicorn tried to regain her composure in front of Fury. “Likewise, Night Fury. And might I ask why you so happen to be in me and my sister's private bathroom? You were not up to anything unbecoming, right?” She said with a raised eyebrow.

“No, just a little misguided drowsy stumbling. Although I nearly had a heart attack when the big, white mama bear over here showed up.” 

Luna now turned from suspicion to amusement. She couldn't help but laugh. “Oh Fury, ever the amusing one with your words. I suppose you’re innocent.”

Fury smiled at that, a little too much. Just then, Luna got a clear look at just how much morning dreariness he was packing.

Matted fur, dull claws, kinked tail, yellow teeth… good grief. No doubt he knows hygiene is important, but boy does he pack up a lot of crust and nastiness.

Luna had to make herself clear about her boyfriend's looks. And so she did. “What a mess! You look like you grew up in a swamp.” She said.

Fury gave her a huff of laughter. “Uh Luna… technically, I kinda did literally grow up in the wild.”

Luna blushed at her obliviousness to the blatantly obvious. “Oh… right.”

Celestia chuckled. “Oh sister, even after all these years, you're still just as adorable. But you do bring up a great point. Those yellow teeth are a terrifying sight.”

Fury covered his mouth, his face flushing red and his ears flattening to the sides of his head.

“But, this is a bathroom for a reason. We shall endure our morning routine together! Starting with making acquaintance with our toothbrushes. Come you two, let us get started.”

Fury smiled at her openness. “Emperor knows I need one.”

The trio walked to a marble countertop with gold and silver surrounding mirrors. Celestia and Luna took out their toothbrushes.

“You have a toothbrush, right, Fury?” Celestia asked.

“Uh yeah. You ponies aren't the only ones who know about dental hygiene.” Fury said as he got out his own glittery red toothbrush. “After all, my mom with all her sweets would strictly enforce my brushing regimen three times per day. No exceptions or else. Though Dad and Amethyst gave me some leeway in an effort to teach me survival skills, as it could be weeks before you get to sit in the comfort of a bathroom.”

Celestia smiled. “I see. Well Fury luckily for you, you are in the realm of civilization. So therefore, you will not only brush your teeth. But you shall get the royal treatment. Even our very own Royal Mouthwash! Perfect for meetings.”

Fury looked over to the crystal blue liquid and read the label.

“Colgate’s Crystal Mint Mouthwash: Have your breath be blessed by the greatness of the royals themselves! Officially endorsed by the Royal Family. Huh, I didn't know you guys did sponsorship. What's next, Celesti’Os?”

“Hmmm, perhaps I might consider that. Thank you for the suggestion, Fury!” Celestia said amused.

Luna rolled her eyes. “Always taking advantage of fame. Typical sister.”

“Oh great, I can see the box already. Celesti’Os: A Bit Of Sunshine In Each Bite!”  Fury joked.

Luna laughed out loud at that comment. “How very fitting!”

“Okay, you two, let's stop wondering about captions for cereal before we forget why we're here.” Celestia reminded them. Luna and Fury nodded as they both got their toothpaste along with the eldest princess. Luna had a deep blue paste that matches her coat, sparking like her mane. Celestia sported bright yellow toothpaste that almost shined with a bit of sunlight in itself. 

Fury's was a bit more unique, a swirl of blue and black paste that had a bit of a glow to it. Perhaps it was infused with Speed Shifters energy.

As the paste was pressed onto his teeth, the princesses could swear they heard an electrical sound from his mouth as he brushed hard against his fangs. He seemed to enjoy it more than most ponies would.

After he got done, he gargled and spat into the sink and they could even see the glow from water he spat out.

Fury took notice of their bewilderment. “Hey, a Speed Shifter's teeth need special treatment. We Shifters not only want clean teeth but strong teeth too. Our paste gets all the food particles, even in hard to reach places and also reinforces our teeth with a bit of strengthening powder to use them for warfare so they don't get softened up.” He said before getting some more mouthwash and gargling it up, spitting it out once he deemed it sufficient.

“Very interesting. You Shifters sure are unique. Even more interesting than my bat pony guards at times. But now that your teeth are cleaned, it is time to deal with your… horrendous matted fur.” Luna said, a bit disgusted.

“More than happy to do so!” Fury agreed.

When they went into the bathing areas, Fury was taken by how large the bath was. It was basically an indoor pool. And of course it was complete with decorative tiles and sculptures of dolphins.

“Are you ready to go in?” Celestia asked.

“Oh I was born ready. But not in any normal way.” Fury said in a pouncing position. 

“You're not actually going to-”

“Yep and you’re going with me. Divebomb!” Fury said, before grabbing Luna and Celestia and proceeded to lunge into the large bath. It produced such force that the whole room got covered in water.

“Ha ha, I'm liking this place already!” Fury said.

Luna rolled her eyes. “You know you could have just walked in through the stairs right?”

“Sorry, but like as a cub. I had a rule. If I see a big body of water, I just have to dive bomb into it like a catapult!” Fury said, still excited.

“Well, now that you got that out of your system, it's time to relax.” Celestia said with a chuckle. “Do you feel the warmth of these waters and how they soothe you?”

Fury finally took notice of the waters and how nice they felt. He felt he could just melt into the water. 

“Yeah I do. I don't think I've been in something that ever felt this good.”

Luna smiled. “There are special minerals in here that give properties that relax the body and rejuvenate your body. These minerals are a mix of the crystals found below Canterlot and from the Crystal Empire. All the stress of a day, all the dirt, all the swearing vanishes in these waters.”

Fury had to admit he felt truly at ease in this environment. He started to feel like he was almost a liquid at this rate. He was especially surprised at how big the bath was. He could even do some swimming in the warm waters.

Just then, a yellow rubber duckie floated over to him.

“Heh, look at this little guy.” Fury said as he grabbed it. 

Quack! Quack!

“Heh, I wouldn't expect rubber ducks of all things to be in some royal bathroom like this.”

“It's a good form of entertainment.” Celestia said. “And they can even make good friends to talk with when you feel lonely. Just ask my sister. She even gives them names”

Luna blushed with embarrassment. “Sister! You promised you would keep that a secret.”

Fury laughed. “Don't worry, Moonpie. It's all cool. After all, I wouldn't mind my own rubber duckie collection. I could even play war games with them. Think about it. One side vs another side. General Duckenhower vs General Duckstein.” Fury said as he got two rubber duckies and crashed them against each other.

The other two laughed at this. Fury was able to make a fun situation even out of rubber duckies.

Luna then looked over to Fury and got a look at him. Even without the mane and tail of a pony, he was one hot piece of pie in the bath. Something about his slick fur, dripping with water and his muscular form just made her… weak. It was such a captivating sight. She could have sworn she saw a huff of steam hiss from his nose like a primed steam engine, ready to burn and haul.

No living creature has ever made her feel so… aroused. Sure, she gave the occasional blush and sheepish smile when one of the nobles would compliment her, but Night Fury was different. He seemed to push all the right buttons to get her to cave and release all of her inner self. The self she hid away for many a year to keep her regal and strong exterior intact. 

The only other creatures in her life that could get her to relax that much were Celestia, her mother, and even Cadence to some degree. But him? He had something special residing under all that mischief, battle rage and past trauma.

And at first she couldn't understand what that was. But after a long time being with him, she figured it was his passion. His sheer passion. Whether it was battle or fun, he showed an amount of it that surpassed anyone she ever saw. Even if he could be reckless at times, she admired how much he wished to make his own way even if others didn't understand. How he wished to be his own free self. She herself could relate to that last part especially.

“Yeesh, with all the muck my fur picks up, you'd think I'd look more brown than black.” Fury joked.

“I would think so too.” Celestia said, amused. “I guess your fur just is good at collecting all that mess and keeps it hidden away except for those close to you.”

“Well, this winter coat is harder to clean. That's one of its flaws. Good for warmth in the colder months, terrible to get clean. What's even worse is that anything above the sides is a pain to deal with.” Fury said with a sigh. 

Fury then got out a scrubber with a sponge. “I need something really special to get that really dirty stuff. This sponge is made from special plants found under the lake. It absorbs a lot. It's a pain to use but I gotta do it. Better me than my mom for sure.” 

Luna then raised her arm. “How about I help you in this painful endeavor, Lightning Bug? You deserve to simply relax after all. I promise I will be friendly.”

Fury didn't know what to think. He usually preferred he did it himself and didn't trust others to scrub his back. But then again he knew it was Luna who he trusted. And besides it was his girlfriend so maybe it wouldn't be so bad.

“You know what, Moonpie, I'll take it. Just… try not to go too hard. That scrubber can feel like a weapon.”

Luna grabbed the scrubber. She breathed in. She remembered what her mother taught her about wielding a weapon. How to use precision and to use grace. She scrubbed her coltfried's back lightly.

She was very careful. 

“Uh sweetie? I know I said be careful but this is a little too soft. I'm not a cub, you can go harder with me. Come on, Princess of the Night, show me your true power. Unless you want Sunbutt to beat you in that.” 

Luna would not have that. “My power is not to be underestimated! I will show you my true scrubs!”

She then scrubbed harder. She over time scrubbed harder and harder.

“Oh boy, that's really something. Yeah I think you're doing good.” Fury said now satisfied. But Luna did not respond and kept going. 

“Yeah. Ok Maybe a little too good.” Fury said now feeling a bit of pressure from her scrubbing. “Seriously, Luna, you can be done now. Luna? Luna, I- Ow! Luna!”

“Huh, what?”

“You can be done now.” Fury said. “You went the complete opposite there. You scrubbed like no tomorrow. Even Big Macintosh couldn’t match what you had.”

Luna felt regret. “I'm sorry, Fury. I disregarded your warnings and went too harshly. I know you might be angry now-”

“Pffft! I'm not angry, babe. I find it fun. You have that passionate side. I kinda made a mistake honestly comparing you to Tia. I was just being playful. But you take play to a whole new level. You have that fire in you. And I find that pretty hot.” Fury said amused.

Luna blushed at that. It was nice to have someone appreciate her not just for her outward regal appearance but even her other side. The side that has deep passion. 

No wonder why I'm so drawn to him. Luna said to herself.

“Um, Luna?” Fury spoke, snapping her out of her inner thoughts

“Oh right, the scrubbing! I'll do it more softly this time.” 

“Nah, I think you got it all off. In your passion, you got rid of all that gunk.” Fury said.

“I agree. You look all new, Fury.” Celestia complimented.

“Well, I can't say everything is okay. I still have these to worry about.” Fury said, sticking his claws above the water.

“Your claws?”

“Yeah, if you look closely, they're all dull. I haven't done my mandatory sharpening. And recently, those hoof files that Rarity has been giving me, snap on contact. My claws are hard as steel now, which while natural for Speed Shifters and even more so for an All Powerful, it makes it an absolute pain to find something to sharpen them now.”

“I guess those are the consequences of being too powerful.” Celestia said. “I should know.”

“But what can we do to sharpen your claws if our tools will just break?” Luna asked.

Fury racked his brain for every possible solution to his dilemma. Soon enough, he thought of one.

“A sharpening stone! That's it! All I need is one of those revolving stones that sharpen swords and I should be home free.” Fury said in a eureka moment.

“Like they do in a smithy?” Celestia asked. “That sounds quite… rough. Are you sure your claws can handle that pressure?”

Fury nodded. “Yep! Our claws don't break so easily. As long as you know what you're doing you can sharpen even my claws.” 

“Is there some blacksmith in Canterlot that I can go see?” Fury asked.

“We’ll do you one better. We have our own private blacksmith in the deeper sections of the castle. Shining Armor used his services quite a lot back when he was still Canterlot’s chief of the royal guard. They should have what you need.”

“Awesome! I don't have any more junk on my body. So I'm ready to dry off and get my claws dealt with.” Fury said getting out of the bath to dry off.

“We'll take you to him.” Celestia said doing likewise. “Get all dried up and be ready for a true genius.”

“Oh you won't have to wait for me. It's the other way around.” Fury said confidently. He charged his aura and within a second, he zapped all the moisture off of his fur with a single burst of mana.

“He must surprise you every day you see him.” Celestia said to her sister.

“That would be putting it lightly.” Luna said with a smile. “Now, you two go handle the sharpening situation. I will take the liberty of having the chefs prepared breakfast for your return.”

“Thank babe. To think I would have been running after another Shifter when you were right here, waiting to be loved.” Fury said, jumping up to meet her height, kissing her and leaving with Celestia to meet the blacksmith.

“I could say the same for myself.” She chuckled softly as she went to inform the royal chefs of their duties.

-

As the two went deeper into the palace, they encountered some stalwart guards. Apparently the smithy’s secret techniques of making weapons was considered important enough to be guarded by the highest of security.

They had finally reached the doors of the blacksmith. 

“So any safety protocols I need to know before going in?” Fury asked.

“Well, for normal ponies who accompany me or Luna down here, they would be given protective goggles and a smither’s apron to protect against sparks. But you and I are free to walk in thanks to our discipline, cunning and practically indestructible hides.”

With that reassurance, the two went into the smithing room. Just a few steps in, they could already feel the wave of heat in the room and hear the pounding of hammer to metal from all the blacksmiths.

“Hoowee, talk about a temperature difference! Not even a couple steps in and I already feel like my thick fur is gonna cook me like a stuffed turkey. This is even hotter than my dad’s smithy!” Fury huffed.

“Lately we've been working with new metals from the mines that will be able to make stronger blades. And they take a lot more effort to heat up.” Celestia said.

“Right, and I'll save you the time of explaining that they're much harder to smelt and mold. Y'know, if you switched from coal fires to a lava boiling system, you'd save on constantly having to refuel and completely cut out the coal fumes. Lava burns hotter and can basically last forever if you can get a good supply. All you have to do is run some obsidian coated pipes along the sides to minimize burning holes in them, set some grates on top of lava cauldrons to separate the hot stuff while letting the heat through and the rest is history. Saved my kind from desperate times when the coal mines out west collapsed.” Fury explained.

“If you told me you could use molten lava itself to create blades, I would have thought it a tall tale. But I have seen your father and his friends and now I'm even more impressed.” Celestia said. “If we set up some trade deals with your tribe, and find some way to transport lava, maybe we could see if these techniques work for us.”

“Oh I'm sure Jade could find ways to get the Chief and his council to consider. Mom and Dad are thinking of making a return trip to check in and see the progress. We can only hope forward progress is what it is.” Fury said.

“But I suppose that's for another time.” Fury admitted. “Right now, I have to attend to my claws.”

Fury looked around to find any blacksmith that was not working his job. He then saw a grizzled earth pony stallion eating a sandwich, probably taking a break from work.

“Looks like I found just my guy.” Fury said, walking to him.

“Hey, there. I'm Fury and I got a favor to ask of you.” 

“Yeah, yeah, yeah, I'm trying to eat here. Go find someone else to bother.” The stallion said not even looking up from his food.

Fury grumbled. “Well, since he's such a nice guy, I guess I'll find someone else-”

Celestia stopped him. “Don't be discouraged. That smith, Iron Hooves, is one of the greatest in Equestria. He is a bit grumpy. But as warriors like Shining Armor can attest, if you get him to work on a project, he will do it with pride. Let me handle this.”

Celestia walked up to him. “A bit busy with your food at hoof, isn't that right?”

The blacksmith instantly changed expression and looked up to see the princess.

“Your Highness!” He said bowing to her. “I apologize, I didn't know you were here! If you have anything for me to do, just let old Iron Hooves know.”

“Well I do. But not for me. But for our ambassador, Night Fury.” 

The blacksmith looked at the young feline. Fury could detect less respect from him compared to how he treated Celestia.

“I can see what you're about to say, smart flank. Shut it. I haven't even had something to eat yet and I wouldn't mind some pony flesh if you get on my nerves, so stay in line.” Fury snarled. The smith went almost completely silent at his deadly comment, ponies all over stopped moving and only the whirring sound of burning flames filled the air.

“Fine. I'll help you out. No questions asked.” Iron Hooves said. “So what do you need? A spear? A helmet?”

“A claw sharpening.” Fury said simply, showing off his dull claws. “Your puny pony hoof files don't do anything to these babies anymore. I'm looking for something that can hold its own against them. A sharpening stone perhaps?”

Iron Hooves was now bewildered “Are you insane? You want me to use a stone to trim claws? Any rookie knows putting your arm there will destroy it. If I had a cat and put its claws through it, I'd be in prison.”

“Yeah, well, I'm not like those cats. My claws are more like miniature swords if anything. It would take a lot more to destroy them than a rock. I'm tougher than I look.”

“Prove it.” And that he did. Fury took a steel bar and lodged it between his teeth. With one swift flex of his jaw…

Crack!

The bar split in two, sparks flying out of either side of the feline’s jaw as metal shavings flew away and splintered. Meanwhile, the cat still had a full smile with clean teeth and none missing.

The blacksmith remained silent but his eyes exposed how surprised he was at this feat. He seemed a bit impressed now.

“Well, it looks like you were true to your word. I suppose Shining Armor was not exaggerating your exploits after all.” The blacksmith got up from his chair and went to prepare the stone. “Alright kid, put your claw onto this stone. Whatever you do, though, don't put your flesh on this, unless you want to look ready for Nightmare Night.”

“Fine by me.” Fury said, placing his paw on the stone. Iron Hooves pushed the foot pedal and the rock began to spin. Sparks immediately started flying as his claws were sharpened, the edges becoming much more deadly by the second.

Soon enough, they moved on to his front left, then rear left and finally, his rear right. After a few minutes on the stone, Fury's claws were so sharp, he could practically cut the air.

“Wow. This is great. I feel like I'm ready for battle now.” He said before looking at the metal beam he chomped on. “But let's do a little test.”

SWOOSH

Fury swiped the beam as if he were cutting a cucumber. And the beam was literally in pieces.

“Well, I guess that answers that.” Fury said. He looked to the blacksmith. “Well, Iron Hooves, we might have had a rough start but these claws don't lie. So thanks for the favor.”

“Heh, I guess I underestimated you. Shining really was right in how tough you were. Those claws might be strong enough to pierce some of our best armor. Looks like I'm gonna have to work on making some improvements.” 

“Yeah, you do that. Oh and you might want to research about lava and its uses for blacksmiths.”

“Huh?”

“You'll see what I mean someday.” Fury said before leaving.

“Okay, Tia, now I'm ready to go. Even I can’t be around a bunch of fire and smoke forever. And besides, I'm starving.” He said while a growl could be heard.

“That I can hear, my dear. Let’s waste no time and give you a nice breakfast suited for you.” Celestia said with a chuckle that made Fury blush.

“Heh, you got that right. Lead the way! I can't wait to see what Luna’s got waiting for us.” Fury said in excitement. 

So far it had been a busier morning than he had expected, but he was satisfied especially now that he was going to have breakfast.

–

In the castle dining room…

Luna supervised with keen eyes as she watched butlers and maids go to and fro, bringing in food from scrambled eggs to jelly toast.

“Watch yourself, Silverquill, My sister is very keen on her orange juice being with pulp.” Luna ordered.

“As you wish, your majesty.” She responded, placing the cup down.

“That toast looks a little burnt around the edges, Fizz. Are you certain that is suitable?”

“Yes, your highness. Your mother came in with her own request just after you. This toast is for her.” Fizz clarified.

“Well, my mother does have her own unknowable ways.” Luna said, not understanding how her mother could find that pleasing. “Carry on.”

“Sure thing, Your Highness.”

Just then, Celestia and Night Fury stepped in.

“Hey sweetheart, we're back!” Fury said, stepping up and giving Luna a loving nuzzle.

Luna was quite ecstatic though a little worried to be sure that the food was to his liking.

“Oh my dear, Night Fury, you will truly delight in this array of foods. Me and my servants have prepared for you something truly grand and exquisite. Behold!”

She said, moving aside to reveal an array of various well made dishes.

“Holy cow, you sure picked well! Cheese! Scrambled eggs! Jelly toast! Ooh, if I stand here any longer, I think I just might die.”

Luna giggled at her lover’s excitement. “It seems I have hit the nail on the head.” 

“Well then, I better stop staring and spend more time digging in! Come on!” Fury said, racing to his chair.

“So it looks like my first treat will be, hmmm, the scrambled eggs!” Fury said, putting the plate close to him. “Now all I need is some salt from the crystal empire and maybe some sauce.”

“You can use our specialized ketchup, Ambassador.” said Silverquill. “It is quite a work of art to make something so complex.” 

“I'll take it!” He lost his mind to the cheesy omelet with spices and now crystal salt. 

“Mmmm, the mix of egg and cheese was a tasty treat! But I need something sweet… Like that orange juice with… is that the pulp?! Wow, this place is awesome.”

Fury sipped it without a second's hesitation.

Then he ate the toast on his side. He scrutinized its texture and tasted carefully. It truly surprised him. It was a flavor he would never forget.

“Wow, these chefs must be on fire!” Fury said. “Well, of course not literally. Then we'd have some real issues.” He chuckled.

“Is there anything else we can get you, your excellency? As you are technically part of the Royal Family, we are at your service too.” Silverquill said.

Fury tapped his chin for a moment before coming to a verdict. “I'd like a refill on the scrambled eggs and today's morning paper, if you please?” 

“As you wish.”

He could literally taste the scrambled eggs from a distance even picking up the subtle flavor of the spices. 

Silverquill finally delivered what he had requested. He thanked her as she departed. Nibbling at his new plate of eggs, he flipped through the paper. Celestia and Luna had already begun eating when he came across a few points of interest.

“Huh, looks like Peppino’s is making national headlines. Check this: Peppino's Pizza takes the world by storm, new stores popping up in Manhattan, Tall Tell Tale, Fillydelphia, The Crystal Empire and Ponyville.”

“It must be quite a delight to have the pony you helped plant a seed for it turn into a large free industry. He must be elated with his sales and notoriety. He even had an interview with the magazine Canterlot Times.” Luna said.

“I sure hope so, he's gotten thousands of bits in the past week and says here, he may have to open a headquarters soon.” Fury said, going to the next piece of news.

“New sources say that The Crystal Empire has now developed a working prototype of my sonar and is planning on running tests this week.” He read. “Oooh sweet.”

Celestia nodded. “Shining Armor was simply ecstatic about this project going forward. He said he was only able to envision this in some of his science fiction comic books but now he is able to turn fiction into reality. And it will surely help the Crystal Empire and its allies to detect threats much earlier.”

“Heh, too bad he can't do what I do. He'd be going nuts for weeks.” Fury chuckled. “Hey, there's something about me here. Ambassador Lightning up? Reports say that Ambassador Night Fury is now taking steps to become more intertwined with his title and less avoidant of recognition. Fancy Pants, Head of The Canterlot Nobility Committee says, ‘He seems to have less of a problem with those who address him by his title now, almost as if he's growing into his new life.’ That's nice of him to say.”

“I guess giving you some breathing space was enough to get even Fancy Pants to notice improvements.” Celestia said.

“Yeah, I've been taking some time to think about how I've been approaching my ambassadorship. Cadence was right, being too humble does feel a little odd. I've been asking around the Canterlot Nobility to get their two bits and they say the same thing. That I should open up a bit, spend some money and embrace the attention. That's what I intended to do from now on!” He said confidently, taking a sip of orange juice. That sip would however, exit his mouth in a fine spray as he got a look at something amazing.

“Holy cow!” He exclaimed.

“What has you so shocked!?” Luna asked, her mind going to possible threats.

“Nothing bad, but listen to this! New faces in Manehattan: With a new wave of creatures moving into the grand city to find a new start, nothing special came to ponies minds. But once one of them was revealed to be a Speed Shifter by the name of Queen Bee, the talk of new migrants into Equestria began to spike!”

“Really?” Celestia asked, quite surprised. “I have to admit I was not expecting another Shifter so soon considering negotiations are still underway, much less your old babysitter.”

“What is she doing here I wonder? I doubt she is on official government business.” Luna pondered.

“Well, when I was still back home, she was always talking of leaving and going to start anew elsewhere. She always told me that her beekeeping business needed to expand from Thunder Hollow when she would look after me, but I never expected her to move to Equestria. She must have gotten a passport and made some moves.” Fury said.

“I see. Well, considering you have trust and confidence in her, she will be more welcome in our fair land.” Celestia said. “And I also wonder what her wonderful honey can show thanks to her.”

“Only time will tell, Tia. Only time will tell.” Fury spoke. Just then, Lauren walked in looking sluggish and groggy.

“Oh hey, Lauren, good morning. Wake up on the wrong side of the bed?” Fury asked, crunching on some jelly toast.

Lauren yawned. “Good morning, as observant as usual I see, even in the morning. And I don't think I had quite enough feet today.”

Luna and Night Fury looked at the cream colored alicorn with confusion.

“Oh my. Either our mother is drunk or she really hasn't gotten any sleep. She's speaking gibberish.” Celestia giggled slightly.

“Very funny, Tia. But I've just had a bad rest. I assure you, Luna's alcohol cabinet is untouched by me.” Lauren said. 

“Mother! Must you make that known in front of my lover!?” Luna screeched.

“Oh come on, Luna! Relax! I understand why you'd need one. After floating through a realm of dreams of all kinds, whether fantastical, reality, or even sexual, I know I'd need a hit of hard liquor after that nonsense.” Fury huffed.

“Besides, I have one too. Rarity has one, Cadence has one, Shining Armor has one. Heck, even Twilight has her set of light bourbon and whiskey when she feels stressed. Though she only trusted me and you three with that bit of knowledge as she wants to spare Spike his innocence, or what he has left of it with all the scary movies and graphic comics he and Rainbow Dash get into every so often. Either way, you'll get no shame from me.” Fury said.

“Well, even after someone let out my secrets, I suppose it's nice to know my dear will not judge me for it but rather enjoy it.” Luna sighed with relief.

“Atta girl, that's the spirit.” Fury chuckled. He then turned to Lauren. “So, I suppose you've been made aware of the deal me and your daughters struck at my village?”

She nodded. 

“Well, it seems that this has also struck a new wave of visitors. One in particular that I've known for a while.” Fury skillfully tossed the paper to Lauren. Catching it in her rosy magic hue, she scanned the inked parchment and was quite surprised to see Speed Shifters already making their way into Equestrian jurisdiction.

“I knew the meetup of our two races would happen someday, but just not this quickly. But I can tell your babysitter will make a second guest for our lands. She seems to be a nice lady.”

Fury nodded in agreement. “Oh trust me, with the way she took care of me, she might as well have been a second mother to me. Although I hope that kindness isn't squished by the residual drama from when I was playing hero in Manehattan.”

Fury got stern and made a decision. “If that is the case, then I'll have to prevent it! Or at least mitigate any hostile intent.” He then turned to the door and raised his voice. “Raven?” 

The royal advisor immediately burst into the room. It was almost as if she was listening in on them for when she was needed.

“You called me, ambassador?” Raven spoke in a huffy voice, catching her breath.

“Yes I did. It has come to my attention that one of my acquaintances from Thunder Hollow has arrived in Manhattan to start a new life. Although, as I would assume you've been made aware of, the Chosen One's actions and words may still be present within the minds of the locals. And as her closest ally, I can't have anyone harm her.”

“I'd like you to send a confidential letter to the mayor's office, detailing all there is to know about Queen Bee and what is to be done for her as she settles in. Be sure that they use my name. She'll recognize me.” Fury then began to list things to go in the letter, Raven scribbling down what he said at record pace. 

What Fury hadn't realized until now was that Raven was actually a unicorn, her horn nearly tucked away beneath her mane. While it caught him off guard, he still appreciated her work nonetheless.

She soon finished the letter and addressed the ambassador. “Very good, your excellency. I will have this on its way to Manehattan post haste!”

“Perhaps it would also help if we put our own seals of approval on this letter.” Faust said. “Nothing like a princess's approval.”

“I have a secret mark I used to use when Queen Bee and I were just pen pals. I'll use that too as a defining mark so the mayor knows who originally sent for this and who to send it to once received.” Fury said.

Raven nodded, delaying sending it.

“Oh and maybe you can…”

“How about we go over the letter together. It's hard to edit in real time.” Raven suggested, a bit exhausted from rewriting.

“Good call. I may not have to do ambassador duties for the rest of the year, but that doesn't mean I can't make calls for important things.” 

After some time of revising the letter, with the consultation of the princesses, Raven finally finished the letter and had Philomena deliver the letter.

“Do you look forward to seeing her?” Luna asked.

“You bet I am! I can't wait for me to show her around and teach her the tricks around the street.” Fury said.  

Luna was silent for a moment. “I just hope for you two to be careful. I did hear some reports of some ponies, even if a vocal minority, are still loyal to the Chosen One and his ideals even after his brief rule. Some are even rumored to be armed.” 

“If push comes to shove, I'll let you know. But for now, let's just get on with our day and keep moving forward.” Fury said. “Speaking of which, I assume you have the morning report, Raven?”

Raven nodded. “I never go a day without one.” She said, bringing out her scroll from her bag.

She cleared her throat and began to list off that day's events and any planned business. News of new shipments of fish and other products were arriving in Ponyville, the length of that day's court, a new development from Canterlot University's engineering division. Everything that was happening, had happened and was going to happen was listed off with trained poise and posture.

“Nice! We finally got those tasks done early enough. Now I have the whole day ahead of me.” Fury said. 

Celestia smiled. “I must say, Fury, you seemed to have a smile when doing those tasks. I see you're enjoying your task as an ambassador after all.”

“Well, if it's for someone I care about and not some out of touch politician, that makes it easier. And besides, maybe this vacation made me miss my job, even the mundane things.” Fury said.  “But, I wasn't given the entire rest of the year just to cut it short. I'm gonna enjoy this. Plus, I'm gonna go on a little spending spree today.”

“I think you deserve it," Faust said. “Go out and have fun. Just make sure you don't spend too much time there and be sure not to overspend. I've made that mistake a few times.”

“Yeah, don't worry, I'm not my mom. I'll just get the best stuff for myself.” Fury said. “You ladies coming?” Fury asked the princesses.

“I'm afraid not. Unlike you, we can't just take a break from being princesses.” Celestia said, her sister giving an agreeing nod.

“Now hold on, girls. I'm not a princess anymore. Nothing says I can't enjoy the day's activities.” Lauren reminded them. “I'd be happy to tag along, Night Fury.”

“Awesome! I've been meaning to spend some quality time with you. I mean we are technically family now.”

“I would like to know more about my future son-in-law after all.” 

“Mother!” Luna said blushing.

“Hey, let's not go that quickly.” Fury said doing the same.

“Heh heh, I kid of course. Maybe. But that's another time. Let's go shopping now.” Fause said walking to the entrance.

Luna sighed. “I can see where Celestia got some of her sense of humor.”

“Eh, I like it. It makes her sweeter than a ripe peach.” Fury cooed.

“Dawww, you little charmer! Go on, get!”

Fury finally went off with Faust to go out of the palace and to Canterlot's legendary shopping district.

–

For Fury, Canterlot's shopping district was the opposite of the more quiet and laid back mood of the palace. Ponies of elegance and different wealth brackets went to and fro, going about their daily business. Luckily, his ambassadorship gave himself a bit of an edge within the refined chaos as many respected his position, greeted him with dignity and gave him and Lauren their space to walk.

“Okay, shopping in the Capital of Equestria. Let's see… clothing, horseshoe polish, furniture...” 

“It's a bonanza huh? Anyone can get overwhelmed in this place. Legends even tell of ponies who died because they starved trying to see what to buy here.” Faust said.

“Yeesh, no kidding. It's a good thing Fancy Pants invited me to a Nobility Meeting once I was officially sworn in to give me a lay of the land. Otherwise, I'd be more clueless than a Proboscis Monkey in the arctic.” Fury said. He continued to look around at the many shops that passed his vision, questioning if he would even find something that interests him.

Luckily, what looked like a parts shop made its way into his sightlines. “Hmmm, that parts store looks like it's made for go karts. I've been meaning to get some upgrades for the one I got for my birthday… Eh, why not? Let's see if they've got something in stock for me.” 

Fury and Lauren redirected to the parts store and they got a good look at the name. Skidmark's Parts O’ Plenty. 

They went inside and were greeted with many different types of parts. Wheels, tires, replacement exhaust pipes, and what looked like a full shelf of different body kits that were called ‘Conversion Kits’.

“Have I died and gone into Paradise? This place is so… amazing.” He said, barely paying attention to what was in front of him.

“No, I think you're still alive-”

“Look at these wheels! They've got swirls instead of spokes. And this dual side mount exhaust, what a steal! A little heavy on the weight, but worth it for the style points.”

Faust was glad he found this place so alluring. This place attracted the best of pony racers. From years before to current day, shops like these would be the pinnacle of racing culture.

“Well, I see we do have ourselves an interested customer,” said an old earth pony stallion with a monocle, old fashioned suit, beret and long mustache. 

“Sure am! Boy, this place must have every newbie rider swarming here for new parts. Though, with how rugged and wild such an interest is, I wouldn't have expected somepony in such a distinguished look to be selling them.” Fury said. 

“I must say that I agree. Such a sport has lots of violent outcomes, adrenaline, broken bones and scrapes involved. A much more grizzled pony would be at least expected to be behind the counter.” Lauren chimed in.

“Well, you see I'm a bit of an inventor. I've seen karts since the day they first came out. I might be more civilized now, but I used to be a savage in the battlefield we call the racing track. To see how someone can use science and street smarts to outwit their opponent is so pleasing. And I wish to see the next generations do the same! Of course, with more safety and less fatalities than in my day.” He said with a chuckle.

“As expected. But for now, let's get down to business. So, what can you tell me about those conversion kits behind you?” 

Skidmark was quite pleased at his curiosity. “These can make even a mediocre kart into a speedster!  Every part in each of these boxes plays a part in turning your kart into something else. You have trail kits with softened suspension and different tires to aid with bumps and grip, street kits with spoilers and high flow exhaust to help with power output, and even snow kits with miniature plows and tire spikes to keep you from slipping. Any terrain you want to conquer can be achieved with one of these.”

Fury was immediately caught by the many options that could kick his game up. Every single kit was its own unique flavor of adventure, the thought of putting them together just made him feel tingly. And with that, he made his offer.

“I'll take one of each please.” He said nonchalantly. 

Skidmark spluttered at the sound of his voice. “One of each!? Ambassador, these kits cost hundreds of bits each! Are you sure you don't just want one?”

“Well, that's actually why I'm here.” Fury held up his golden card. “I've got bits to burn, my good chap. And I intend to spend it where I suspect I'll get the most value. So, I'll pay in full and cover any delivery fees to my address in Ponyville.”

Skidmark then had a smile that showed through his mustache and wrinkles. “Well that's lucky for me! I don't see too many fellows coming here to spend that much on karts! We have a deal! Now, let's work out delivery and see what else I can get you.”

For the next couple of minutes, Fury, the old stallion and Lauren went back and forth, speaking in facts and other things about what the parts did and how they worked. But by the end of it all, the bill had been paid for delivery and the first purchases of the day were made. Fury even got a complimentary toolbox and beginners brochure for free.

“Wow! Who knew there was so much to find out about go-karts! Heh, I might just be in this for the long haul.” 

Faust smiled. “I'm glad you found a place that clicked with your hyper energy. I guess that means you have nothing else you want to buy whatsoever and are completely satisfied.” Faust said, knowing full well it was not over.

“No way, ma'am. I might not be back in Canterlot for a while so I'm gonna milk this place like Applejack with her cows. And I've got just the thing in mind for my next move.” Fury said, pointing over to an antique store close by.

Going inside, many little trinkets and oddities immediately met his gaze. Grandfather clocks, wooden rooster hang-ups, toy soldiers, ragdolls, live laugh love posters. It all screamed, or rather, humbly displayed antique and unique.

“Huh, this place is an interesting one. We had antiques back home, but nothing like this.” Fury said, his voice noticeably lower to match the atmosphere.

“We have many novelties that we keep as antiques. Some say they hold not only financial value, but sentimental value as well.”

“Well, any type of value I can get out of these, I'll take it.” Fury looked around at the shelves of many trinkets and found an old looking wooden contraption he had never seen before. It was a small box with two knobs and many buttons on it, decimalized numbers lined the bottom of the white background inside the glass while AM and FM sat at the top.

“AM and FM? Is this some sort of clock? If so, it's a weird one if it's got decimals.”

Fury then heard some snickering at his comments. 

“Oh, no, silly. Way more amazing than that stuff.” Fury saw a mare come from the shadows. “This baby can give excitement, drama or just news while you're sitting down!”

Fury wondered who it was. He recognized that silhouette as being like Twilight's.

“Wait a minute, I recognize your look. Twilight, is that you? You sound like you drank one of those voice potions.”

A small giggle came from the silhouette. “Well, I am called Twilight. But the one you think I am is someone much different.”

The silhouette finally emerged from the shadows. And revealed a pony that was not purple but gray. She had similarities with Twilight, almost too many, but she was different, she seemed a bit older after all. And the most obvious difference was plain as day. She had no wings.

“Hmmm, you look like her. So you're probably related… Cousin? Aunt? Great Granny?”

“Nope, nope and for your information, I am not that old!” She said a bit offended. “I'm certainly younger than that clock you're seeing. Thank you very much.”

Lauren giggled behind Fury as he blushed pink.

“Okay, okay. Just a joke. But who are you?!”

Velvet smiled again. “Why none other than the mother of Twilight and Shining Armor. Twilight Velvet, a pleasure to meet you.”

“Wait! I was just joking about the aunt and grand aunt stuff but her actual mother?! You look like you're only a few years older than Twi!”

“Maybe it's that youthful vigor people talk about. I make sure to never let myself age. Even if it means going in a barrel flowing toward the waterfall, I'll go for it!”

Fury was surprised at that. Not even his own mother would go as far as stepping into a plain old barrel and taking a death dive over a waterfall. 

“Wow, I wouldn't have expected to have seen a mother be that adventurous. Speaking from experience, mine is as interesting as a boulder in swamp sludge. What with all her magazines and her live laugh love knick knacks.”

Velvet chuckled at that. “Well at least she doesn't have all those bingo cards my dear husband claims is an artform.”

Fury laughed at that. He was amazed how this daredevil mare was the mother of Twilight and Shiny of all ponies. 

“I like you.  I guess we have to stay strong in the face of boredom from our loved ones.” But Fury got back to business. “But back to my original question. What is this thing?” 

“This is what we call a radio. With no cables, it sends and receives messages all over Equestria.”

“Huh, we don't have these where I come from. And I can't even joke about having to use carrier pigeons. Both because we don't get pigeons and if we did… we'd… eat them.” Fury said with an awkward smile.

“I understand they'd probably be hard to take care of and make a lot of noise.” Velvet said with an unusual dark sense of humor.

“I have a feeling you and Black Ice would get along rather nicely.” Lauren spoke, amused.

“Maybe I will! I always like exotic company. Makes the world feel new.” Velvet said.

“Oh yeah, you would love my mom. She's a very calm, loving feline. She's one who can hold her own, but can be a little overzealous at times.”

“I guess I can be a bit too sometimes.” Velvet admitted. “Maybe it's another thing we mothers can bond over.”

Fury had a chuckle at that idea. But he was ready to get back to it. “So back to this radio. So can you really communicate from far away with this?”

“Well, military radios can do that. These civilian configurations only really play music and tune into radio stations which are powered by magic signals spread out across Equestria. Like the type of camera system they used at the Equestria Games.” 

“Awww, I see. Guess it's still too expensive for the average creature to use them,” Fury said, a little disappointed. Then his expression became positive. “But then again I would like to listen to some music while still laying on my couch and eating my fish. Or hear what's up with the games.” 

He picked up the radio delicately and placed it in his saddlebags.

“Now this is something I'll be keeping. Thanks for the advice, Ms. Velvet.” Fury said with a smile.

“Please, just call me Velvet. You're friends with my daughter, so you're friends with me. It was nice meeting you… I'm sorry, your name was…?” 

“Night Fury, it's a pleasure.” Fury said, shaking her hoof.

“Night Fury. I can already tell what kind of fellow you are just by that name alone. All I can say is, never lose that adventurous spirit even when you get to my age.”

“I’m sure I won't.” Fury chuckled. “C'mon Lauren, let's see what else we can snag.”

The two left the pawn shop and were already quite pleased at their acquisitions. 

“So I have a delivery for my kart and a radio for big events. Wonder how this can get any better?” Fury said eagerly.

“Yeah, I know.” Faust said.

“No really. I'm asking for some advice on where to go next. Two places just feels empty after all.

Lauren let out a chuckle. “You really would be lost without me, wouldn't you?” 

“Maaaaybeee…” Fury dragged on, getting close to his shopping buddy. He got so close that his fur made contact with hers. And what he felt, almost made him think he was already in the great beyond.

“Wow. That's something new.”

“Huh?” Faust said, looking back.

“I knew you ponies had a large amount of fur to the extent you can feel like pillows, but your fur? Your fur, or should I say fluff is more like a cloud.”

“Huh, I never thought of it like that.” Faust admitted. “Well, we alicorns are built for harsh climates after all.” Faust said with pride.

“Pfft, please. With this type of fuzz, the only real thing you alicorns are built for is cuddles.”

“I should have known you were going to tie it to something like that. Though I'm pretty sure you don't have any plans for that do you?”

Fury shook her head. “Not really, all I hear is more planning for shopping opportunities. Speaking of which, do you have any places you want to go? I'd feel guilty if it was just me dragging you along while I do all the shopping.”

“Hmmmm,” Faust wondered. She would often just let her children decide where to go. She had no ideas. “Well I guess I'll let it sprout up in my mind. Let's just see what else there is.”

Fury nodded. “Sounds good to me.” 

They took the time to search through the metaphorical mountain of shops and stores to go to, weighing their options carefully based on their interests.

“Wow, they have everything here. Glasses, fireworks, couches, self defense, self defense against ninjas?” Fury said a bit overwhelmed by the choices.

“This shopping district wouldn't be what it is without all the hustle and bustle. Better than when this place used to be all quiet with nothing to do.” Faust said casually, though inside she was looking for an interesting place that Fury and herself could both enjoy.

They walked alone for a while. Fury decided to break up the tension with some questions.

“So, um, besides Manehattan, any other suspicious signs? Any news of shadow shifters or anything?”

Faust shook her head. “Nothing we can confirm. There have been a few rumors of unknown shifters lurking around in the border areas but nothing too can be confirmed. And of course Blueblood is still missing with a few unconfirmed sightings of him. But luckily the armies of Equestria are getting ready in case they try something very troublesome.”

“Good. And I'll be ready if they show their ugly faces here again.” Fury said with his claws exposed. “Especially with all my new powers.”

“Good. Just don't worry about them too much. Not until the time comes.” Faust said.

“Good plan. But there is something else that's been bugging me…” Fury continued.

“Please, do tell.”

“How do you ponies deal with the Female/Male ratio in your society? I mean, your entire culture is dominated by mostly females. So how in the world do relationships work? Do you just try and make it work or… is there something else?”

Faust was a bit silent at first but she spoke up. “Heh, you really are curious, aren't you? Well, in the past, pony culture was mostly matriarchal. Stallions would work the tough jobs like lower military jobs or mining, while mares would lead the upper jobs. Of course, as time went on, these strict traditions weren't as rigidly enforced. So, females started to take on the rough jobs as well as the males to even things out. As for relationships… well, stallions are known to have… multiple mates.”

Fury went silent, his facial expression blank. His brain was churning the new information like butter and out came a very unexpected answer.

“Huh, so Speed Shifters aren't far off then.” Fury said. Lauren was surprised, she fully expected Fury to have a mental breakdown with that sort of knowledge having been bestowed upon him.

“Really? How so?” She asked.

“Unlike nowadays, where the ratio is about 60/40 male to female, we used to have multiple mates as well. Back in the olden days, the males would have something resembling a lion's pride. We called them ‘Packs’. What happened was our leaders had agreed that with the unstable ratio and dominance of females, things would get complicated with bringing in a stable extension into the next generation. So, they brought down the suggestion of males bringing in multiple mates. And so for about the next 500 years, our relationships were consistent of 5-7 females with 1-3 males. Though mostly a singular male would suffice.”

Then Fury looked up at Lauren. “So let me guess. The exact same thing is happening now in modern day with ponies?”

“That would be right. We ponies realized we needed greater stability. It might have been exciting with all the different mates, but it just wouldn't work out in the long run. Everything is a bit more even now. Though we still have a majority of females for ponies, though each race and region varies. Males are still fewer than us. It makes it sometimes hard for mares to find the right stallion but easier for the stallion to find the right mare.”

“Huh. Well I guess that eases things up. I guess you gotta find the flowers where they groooooooo…” Fury trailed off as he started staring at something across from them.

“Hmmm, what have we got here?” Lauren said, looking over to where Fury was staring.

On the other side of the road was a rather good looking mare with a white coat, swirling white and light blue mane and tail, and a strong set of wings. And to top it all off, she was a bit husky. Nothing bad, but her belly was bigger than the average mare and her hips carried a bit more curve to them.

“Do you… happen to know this mare? You seem to have some interest in her.” She said.

“You kidding? That's Vaportrail, one of the Wonderbolts recruits. I saw her hanging around Ponyville and to say she's a cute girl is an understatement. Luna's beautiful and sleek, but what I would give to cuddle with a mare who's a bit squishier…”

“I see.” Faust said, nodding. “I bet Rainbow Dash has hung around her. Have you talked to her personally and is she nice?”

“I'd like to, but the girl's a little shy. Not on Fluttershy's level, but just enough that she gets a little sheepish around new creatures. We've shared glances and all but… to be honest, just looking at her makes my tummy get all fuzzy.”

“I see. Are you thinking of approaching her? Are you thinking of creating a herd?” Faust asked.

“Good grief, I haven't even thought of that. It could work…” Fury wondered aloud. “I must consult the lover's expert!”

Fury stood tall and raised his voice, speaking like a narrator for a comic movie. “When there's a lover in trouble and a master is needed…”

“...one must consult the lady of love, the one who obsesses over finding one's true love. The one and only Mi Amore Cadenza!” A familiar voice answered. Just then, a pink bullet flew in and landed in front of Fury.

“Ask and you shall receive.” Fury said. “Glad to see you Cadence! I think you're well aware I have a lover's struggle in my head.”

“As was made obvious with your cry for help. So, what's the damage? Hit your first rough patch? Is she getting bored? Need help to spice things up~?” Cadence asked.

“As much as a bit of bedroom time would be nice, we're not there yet.” Fury chuckled, unknowingly making the elder alicorn blush at the very sexual thought. “This time is about a new culture I was made aware of…”

“Herds.” He said simply.

“Herds? Why would you be thinking about…” Cadence then realized what he was saying. His face confirmed that. “Ohhhh. You… are trying to make your own… herd?”

“And I've gotten some more than blatant messages with that one making me feel some type of way.” Fury pointed back to an idle Vaportrail who was sipping some pink lemonade on the street corner.

“Oh I see. You got some interest in her. Well I can see why. She does have that elegant but quiet look one usually doesn't associate pegasi with. But underneath I can see an energetic heart.” Cadence said.

“Not to mention those hypnotizing curves. Her plump exterior, soft looking barrel, plush face, that… secret touch that'll just make you… Raurg!” Fury let out an almost predatory snarl as he described Vaportrail’s form, bearing his fangs as if he were to literally take a bite out of that prime ‘Rump Roast’ he was eyeballing.

“Whoa settle down, Romeo, you have to take it slow. We girls don't like it when you rush them.” Cadence said. “So, you really want her? Then you have to be subtle and show courtesy. Try to ask her how she's doing and what her interests are. The things I taught you with Luna.”

“Oh she'll be interested in something soon.” Fury said in a sultry way. Then he corrected himself. “Ahh, get it together, Taranis!”

Cadence was confused. “Wait, who's Taranis?”

Fury blushed and gave an explanation. “Oh! I forgot, you didn't know. Uh… Taranis is my middle name. Night Taranis Fury.”

“Well I guess we learn something new everyday. How'd you get it?”

“When I was just a kitten, my mom was a bit on the ropes about a middle name for me. But when she found out my powers had a little more… shock value, she named me after the Coltic god of Thunder and Lightning.”

“Coltic? Is that a shifter civilization?” Cadence asked.

“No, it's actually one of yours. It's what we call one of your people's greatest achievements. Maybe you have your own name for them. Anyways, their history is a vast one, running back to the times of Vikings and Conqueror barges. You know the tale of Rockhoof?”

“Yep. Every foal in Equestria knows about him and the Pillar Six, they're legends around here. Said to have saved many from natural disasters and sacrificed himself along with his comrades to seal a great evil.” Cadence said. “But what about Taranis for you shifters?”

“Well, back then, it was believed that Taranis was a warrior god who brought storms to defy the will of Zeus and protect those he deemed his disciples.” Fury explained. “Some say that it's his powers that the mark of the Raging Storm would be given to take on the next generation.”

“Is that so? And who would have gotten it?” Cadence asked obliviously.

“Wow Cady, you've known me for that long and you forgot about this?” Fury said, flashing his birthmark with a quick glow.

“Oh that one! It's been so long since I saw that.” Cadence said recounting their rescue of his parents. “So this Taranis really chose you for this assignment?”

“C'mon Cady, it's not real. It's just a theory. Though we're getting sidetracked. I've still got to figure out how to talk to Vapor and not get that tummy buzz. Makes me feel all tickly down there.”

“Just walk past her. Maybe talk about something unrelated like the Wonderbolts and say how you're a fan of them whether you are or not. And then from there ask her name and about her life and voila!”

“Dohhh, that's the problem. Every time I even move I get that tickly feeling. It's paralyzed my ability to make any advances.” Fury whined, his ears drooping to the sides of his head.

“Ooooh, I get it now. You've got a bad case of butterflies in your belly.”

“Yeah. I'm not sure if I can overcome that feeling. Even fighting villains isn't nearly as hard as this.” He said.

“Look, I can go on and on about how to ask her out. But the truth is you just need to go there and talk. Just remember even if it starts awkward it's all about the ending. Just work on that.” 

Fury took a deep breath and without saying another word, he went over to talk. Cadence and Lauren watched from afar as he approached Vaportrail, his toes practically twitching with nerves.

“He is inconceivably nervous. Look at him, he looks like his stomach is doing flips. You must know a cure for this.” Lauren wondered.

“Oh I do, and it's specifically curated just for him. If he feels all tickly when talking to her, then maybe I can get him used to the feeling. Maybe a bit of a good belly laugh will bounce those butterflies out.” Cadence said confidently. 

As Fury got up to Vaportrail, he made a slight pass and waved. She gave a returning gesture. He then started talking, but it was clear from afar that he was stuttering and mixing himself up. Vapor seemed to giggle at his goofiness and caused him to flip his ears over his eyes to hide his embarrassment.

But then, she stopped laughing and removed one of the blocking ears. She smiled sweetly and began to start her own conversation, Fury chiming in every once in a while to back up her thoughts. 

“They're getting to know each other! It's working!”

Fury was still a little nervous but now he at least felt like she was not some frightening creature anymore. He had to admit she was very pleasant to talk with. Her voice might have been even more beautiful than her mane.

“So uh Vapor Trail, how's your time as a Wonderbolt reserve?”

“Oh, it's a bit hard. You always have to get up early. You have to keep extra control of yourself. And to know about the Wonderbolts, you need to know your stuff about flying which even a pro can't fully know. But it's not all bad, the rest of the reserves have the exact same feelings and often give each other advice for next time.” 

“Woof, I couldn't do that if I was forced to. I've had a… bad experience dealing with aggressive authority. I am a no nonsense type of guy. Anything or anyone that gets on my nerves will most likely see what a few years of suppressed primal urges and trauma-bound rage looks like.” Fury said.

“I… see.” She said a bit nervous. “Well I probably won't be that… daring. But I can say sometimes the higher ups do things that just don't make sense. Sometimes I wish I could teach them a lesson.” She admitted.

“Well, as I always say, keep your chin high and don't give in. You gotta prove you're the best around.” Fury said. “I know what it feels like to think you're not that good, that you'll never be better. It doesn’t help if others like to remind you of that. Some say it's just me being dramatic. But really, it's just me stopping myself from pretending I'm content with myself.”

“I've dealt with things that would make even Celestia herself weep for me. And trust me, she has and continues to do so. Although she hides it behind a mask in public. But, I made a change to that. I gave myself a new lease of life and turned my trauma into something productive. I've heard that you're a little shy, not used to getting so much attention with that legacy Supersonic carries. First pegasus to break the sound barrier. Heh, your grandpa must have been one heck of a flier.”

She nodded. And looked into the skies. “Yep. He really was. He has taught so many of our family and normal ponies how to fly and fly fast. I’m proud of my family, but sometimes I feel like I could never reach their heights.”

Fury put his paw on her shoulder. “I'm sure you're gonna be one of the best in the Wonderbolts. The world will see how great you are and Cloudsdale. It just takes time. I'm carrying a legacy myself, being a god amongst my kind and all. And it took time for me to realize I had the power to shape my destiny anyway I wanted.”

“I always thought that all I was meant to do was bring only our fellow felines together and rekindle the flame that burned bright so long ago. But now I see that all races can be brought together if given the right motivation. That's why I'm an ambassador, to do just that. Maybe we can catch up sometime, talk about our lives some more?” Fury proposed.

She smiled softly but with a cheerful heart. “I would love to do that. Thank you for giving me a good time. I felt like I was going to do nothing for awhile.”

“Don't worry, you won't be bored around me. Not a bit.” Fury said as he waved a final goodbye and watched her walk off.

And just like that…

He collapsed on the ground after having to hold back that tickly feeling for so long while talking to her.

“I can handle training even from Amethyst, but I don't think I was quite ready for a talk with girls. Let alone a high class pretty one. I felt like I was going to explode!”

Cadence and Lauren came over to him. “Well that's clear as day, you look like you just lost yourself.”

“To say that I've lost myself is an understatement. I feel so funny in there, everything in my tummy is losing its mind, whatever's making me feel like this in the first place. Somepony’s gotta cure me.” Fury said. “And I think found one of my doctors…” He said looking off at the distance with a smile.

“You'll find that love can get you places.” Cadence said. “And it can make it worth it to endure a major challenge in your life. I know it would have been different did I not have my sweet Shining Armor. And the same for you. But we've got to fix whatever’s going on in there.” 

“Follow me, I'll help you beat that fuzzy feeling of yours.” Cadence said confidently, getting him up and leading him to a secluded area to help him overcome his problem.

–

They walked a fairly long way, into a large park. It was quite the contrast from the hustle and bustle of Canterlot's streets. Families and romantic couples happily gazed at the natural surroundings around them.

“What do you think, Fury? It's a nice park, huh? I used to come here with Shining when we started dating.” Cadence said dreamy eyes.

“It's a nice place, I'll give you that. But how is this supposed to help me with that fuzzy feeling?” Fury said, a little impatient.

“It's all about the atmosphere, Fury. The atmosphere.”

“You mean like the air quality? I guess…”

“No!!!” Cadence yelled, to which Fury moved back. “I mean the feeling, the theme, the emotions! How something looks, not just you but the place you're at can be the difference between a happily ever after and a murder scene. Sometimes literally.” Cadence said as if remembering some bad memory.

“Okay first of all, if I was ever caught in a situation like that, I'd be the one in shackles for what I'd do to them. And second, I have no intentions on a so-called ‘Happily Ever After’, I still have a life to live.”

Faust whispered to Cadence. “I don't think Fury's into over dramatic flair right now. Just tell him what to do.”

“Fine.” She said with a pout. Then she cleared her throat.

“Okay, let's get to the chase. Vapor seems to be someone who likes quaint wholesome things. Like this park. So one way to get her to like you is to have her walk in this park. Down the bridge, perhaps seeing the ducks. Smelling the roses. That stuff.” Cadence explained.

Fury shook his head, still skeptical. “Yeah, that's not happening. She's a pegasus, she spends most of her time off the ground. Second, she's not just quaint, she's reserved. She likes secluded areas, quiet places. And whoopsie number threesie, she hates generic romance. Or should I say your idea of romance.” He said bluntly.

Cadence pouted again. “You're really letting me have it now, aren't you? But maybe you have a point. I guess there is a trail through the forest you can walk down with no interruptions. It has singing birds and large trees.”

“Now you're thinking with tree sap! But this isn't about her, it's me that's the target. I've got to get all of those butterflies out of me if I want to even have a chance of getting her to like me. Not to mention I have to explain to Luna about how I feel.”

Cadence nodded. “Ah, I was hoping to put off Luna for later. Well, maybe we can think about that later. But what makes you feel uncomfortable? What prevents you from pouring your heart out?” 

“Ugh, where can I even begin? There's the fact that in modern Speed Shifter culture, a secondary partner is basically heresy, My fear of belting out my inner trauma and life issues like she's supposed to be my therapist, The unnerving sense that this might get media on my back, Mom and dad having their opinions. I'm just generally a goofball.” Fury said with a sigh.

Cadence was silent at first. Even if his worries were expected, it was still overwhelming how much was in his head. She knew she had to help him.

“Don't worry. If you keep it secret for now then things will be alright. Except for Luna, you should be honest with her. She does have some familiarity with this old custom considering her age. And she never seemed horrified when she talked of it, so it might just work out. I'll help you through it. And for your parents, that's up to you. If they disagree, I'm sure you can work out a compromise.”

“But right now, I think the only thing you need is a bit of cheering up. That somber face is a hard sight to see.”

“I know. It's just… this stuff gets a bit… let’s say… hard to think about. I can dash and fight. But when it comes to personal drama, that's my Kryponite or whatever that weakness for that hero was.” Fury said.

Cadence looked at him with tender eyes. “Well, that's what friends are for. To help us with these burdensome tasks. Just follow my lead and you'll be happy with Vapor for sure.”

“Promise?”

“Pinkie Promise.” She said, pretending to shove a cupcake in her eye.

Fury chuckled at that and felt a bit better now. But he still wasn't smiling.

“Come on, show me that smile of yours.” Cadence encouraged. Fury smiled a bit, but it wasn't his usual toothy grin.

“Oh come on, you can do better than that.” She said.

“I'm smiling, what else is there?” Fury asked.

“That's not your smile. Now, are you going to smile or do I have to get it out of you myself?” She said with a bit of mischief in her expression.

Fury, not wanting to find out what she meant by that, tried to smile as much his facial muscles could muster.

But the princess of love didn't buy it. “That's so forced you might as well have tape strapped to your cheeks. Okay, looks like things have to go my way.”

Oh no. Fury thought to himself. “By your way, you mean you're gonna tickle torture me, aren't you?”

“Oh no no no, not this time. I've got a little trick that Auntie Celestia taught me to get others in a good mood, not to mention it'll get those butterflies out of you.”

“I'm so excited.” Fury said sarcastically. 

“Oh you will, my friend. You will be right about NOW!!!”

She said contorting her face to look like an angry lion that appeared in the hall of mirrors. 

“Or how about instead of looking angry? I look sad!”

She showed a pitiful face like a beggar or how a filly would look having been rejected from cookies.

“Or how about just plain silly?” 

She switched to a puffy face and rolled her eyes around, sticking her tongue out and flapping her ears.

“Pffft, pffft…” Fury said clearly trying to resist falling for her gimmicks.

“Oh a shy fellow huh? Then how about I show you my pearly whites!” She said, exposing her equine teeth while touching her nose with her tongue and eyes turned like Derpy would.

“Pfft, ba ha ha ha ha!!! I can't take it! You look like such a silly pony! Ha ha ha ha! You look ridiculous!” Fury said, ceasing to restrain himself any further.

“Jackpot. I knew you couldn't resist. Celestia knew I couldn’t do so no matter how hard I tried. Sometimes it’s more effective than tickling when trying to get me to tell if I ate cookies in the jar.” Cadence explained, satisfied with her efforts.

“Oh really? Well, I think the effectiveness of a trick is nonsense. If it still works, it's a viable option. Speaking of which…” Fury got into a pouncing stance and wiggled his toes.

“Um, you're just gonna make silly faces like me, right?”

“The only one making silly faces will be you after I tickle you!” Fury said, pouncing on her.

She had no time to escape his strike, and was pinned down where Fury proceeded to tickle her. 

“Ha ha ha I cheer you up! And this is my payment?!” She said, wondering how he was so crazy.

“Yeah, I wasn't willing to pay with bits or card.” Fury joked. Just then, he got shoved back and was met with a vengeful alicorn staring at him.

“Oh now you've got the bull steaming! Come here, you little scamp!” Cadence charged full force towards Fury, the black feline taking no delay and reciprocating the challenge. But before they could get close to each other, they were both caught in the rosy hue of the eldest alicorn.

“Oh no you two don't! I won't have you charging at each other when I'm around.” Lauren declared. “Now, to teach you two tricksters a lesson.”

The cream colored alicorn approached slowly, now having dropped them to the ground and left them to their own devices.

“So, now we're gonna have to fight for our lives. What do you say, whiskers? All for one and one for al-” Before she could even finish, a sonic boom went off in the distance. Looking to get left, a silhouette of the black cat made of smoke lingered before dissipating and a trail of red light was seen headed towards the castle.

“That little speed freak…” She muttered angrily.

“Oh Cadence… your grand aunt has a present for you.” Lauren said darkly. And for all to hear, only one name broke through the semi tranquility of the city.

“FUUURRRYYYYY!”

–

“Yeeeah, she's gonna be huffy for a while.” Fury said as he made a stop below Celestia's tower. Having gotten away from what he could only imagine was a fate worse than death, he took the time to rest and think about his next move. He hadn't thought of any other places to shop, so he decided to check in on his favorite two regal sisters.

I wonder what they're up to? She can't be too far off my scent. Maybe I can sniff her out.

For a shifter, a scent works best when it's someone you know well and have a bond with, even if enraged with them. For Fury, he could pick their scents up even if they were fairly far away, especially with his enhanced powers thanks to the legacy he now carries. And so he pressed onward.

He was hyper fixated on finding these two, especially Luna.

After a little while, he could see Celestia and Luna walking into the Canterlot’s renowned gardens.

“Bingo, two sisters at twelve o'clock! Let's see if I can get in closer.” Fury recalled one of his other forms that was graciously given to him by Fluttershy. A small bird called a Hummingbird. He never saw one before until recently, their sporadic movements and incredible figure eight flapping pattern caught his eye. So, with a single thought, the black feline turned into the small and agile bird and hummed his way through the air towards the gardens.

Celestia and Luna were walking through the gardens calmly, the only sounds being that of the birds chirping, the rhythmic sound of their hooves on stone paths and the cool autumn breeze blowing the now fully orange and yellow leaves around them.

“I like the colors of these leaves sister. Faded out but still having a hint of color in them.” Luna said.

“Well…it’s alright but I prefer a nice green spring. It just seems more bright and colorful.”

“Colorful is not always better.” Luna grumbled.

“You could say that about me too, couldn't you?” An unknown entity spoke. The princesses stopped and looked around, but nopony was around to be identified.

“And just who might you be? A spy, a ghost, or someone else…?” Luna pondered.

“Let’s just say you both know good and well that messing with me too much will most likely end in nothing less than a bashed in skull and broken legs.” The entity spoke fairly casually. With this information, it was clear to the royal sisters who they were speaking to.

“Well with such a subtle and delicate way of speaking who else could it be then the one, the only Night Fury. Isn't that right?” Luna retorted.

“Heh heh heh. I can tell by your mood, you're being sarcastic. But that's okay. I take pride in telling it like it is and not lying.” Just then, the small black hummingbird made his appearance, landing softly on Celestia's nose.

“I wouldn't have expected any less.” Celestia said with amusement. “Although I thought you were going to be here later. You're a bit early. What brings you here?” Celestia asked with a raised eyebrow.

Fury took a deep breath. “Okay, this one is especially for Luna. I wanted to talk to you, Moonpie.”

“I'm all ears, Fury.” Luna said. “You didn't get in trouble with Cadence again did you?”

“Partially yes, partially no. But that's not the point. Babe… I've been talking to your mom about Equestrian relationships and… she brought up the fact that you ponies form herds to balance out the ratio of male to female.”

Luna nodded. “Yes, we used to have harems. That was true. Quite a long time ago. Even the oldest of ponies besides alicorns would never have known what those were like.”

“Actually Lulu, those technically still exist. Though on a less… blunt extent.” Celestia corrected. “What Fury is talking about is how we've recently come to the conclusion that with our society being dominated by females, we form herds of multiple mates to help reduce the lonesome singles population.”

Luna nodded. “I see. I haven't been very up to date within the relationship department it seems these days. Though I'm curious, did you just come here so you can ask random trivia about past norms?”

“No… it's that…” Fury pushed his chest feathers out and breathed a heavy sigh. “I was thinking of forming one with you.” 

Luna then became silent. “You were?” 

“Yeah. I've been noticing that other mares have been… catching my eyes as of recently. Turns out when you don't know the different types of mares that exist around you after you get hooked up, you begin to second guess yourself. And there's one that I had my eye on…” Fury jumped back and transformed back into his regular self with his saddlebags. Pulling out his Memory Sealer, he double tapped the activation button to put it in Still Image mode.

The device came to live and out came a picture of the mare he had just talked to.

It showed the white young mare in question walking by. Luna could see how beautiful she was. 

“Meet Vaportrail, one of the Wonderbolts recruits and… the girl that's been giving me butterflies. I've heard a few things about her from Rainbow and she seems like one of the nicest ladies I've ever heard besides Fluttershy.”

Luna nodded. “I can see why you would want her. Have you talked to her yet though?”

“Yep, it took all my strength not to just collapse from the fuzzy feeling in my belly. It was practically torture.”

Fury then got himself out of his trance with Vapor and was ready to ask her. “I know it might seem like an unusual arrangement, but I was wondering if you would be alright to just… experiment? This isn't instant, I still do love you of course-”

“Don't worry. I know you do. In fact it's good you're asking an alicorn who was used to seeing this relationship than a modern pony who would not even consider this.” Luna said.

Fury gave a sigh of relief.

“As a matter of fact, I'm not the one you should be wondering about. It's this Vapor mare. You have to be sure she would be willing to be in your experiment and she would be compatible with you.” The lunar deity commented.

“Right, I still have to sell the idea to her. Well, this will take a while. I plan to take her places and see how she reacts, expose her to a few of my interests, get close and maybe at the end of it all, I'll ask. But like Cadence told me when I was still crushing on you, it's a process.”

Luna nodded. “Just make sure you don't rush things. Take it from me when I first reintroduced myself on Nightmare Night when I pushed others away. Be subtle and gradual.”

“Nice to see you finally get some social knowledge, Luna, instead of trying to be so imposing with your voice.” Celestia said with a smirk. 

“I learned my lessons, big sister, thank you very much.” Luna then turned to Fury. “And I intend to help others too like you. Just keep what I say in mind, Lightning Bug.” Luna said with a warm smile. 

“Thanks. It's been a journey from the time my parents set foot in Equestria, and I still have a long recovery ahead of me. But I'll have you take it with me.” Fury said, kissing her. Just as he pulled away, a shrieking wail cracked the veil of relative silence.

“FURY! WHERE ARE YOU, YOU FISH SUCKLING WIMP!?”

Everyone shook a bit, especially Fury at the loud booming voice.

“That was as loud as our Canterlot Royal Voice. Who's shouting out?” Celestia asked.

“Yeeeah, remember when Luna asked me if I got into trouble with Cadence earlier and I said it was 50/50? Well, let's just say that trouble was me ditching her in a tight situation to save my rump.”

“You always find a way to mess with Cadence don't you?” Celestia asked sarcastically.

“Hey, she started it this time. I just made my daring retreat from the battlefield. She can try as she likes but I'm not submitting to her wishes.” Fury defended.

“OH FURY! COME OUT WHEREVER YOU ARE! I JUST WANT TO TALK.”

“I'm over here, lovebutt! I don't care about the threatening voice. Just get it over with and stop looking like an idiot, you're starting to be annoying.” Fury huffed, her angry voice tapdancing on his nerves.

“As you wish.”

A gust of wind burst out as Cadence flew up to where Fury and the Royal Sisters were. 

“So, Fury, I see you've been hanging out here and talking to my aunts.”

“Yep, and had a pretty relaxing and non ticklish time. Then you have to show up.” Fury sniffed.

“Well excuse me, when did you get so huffy?”

“Ever since I had this herd issue come out. I'm racking my head to find a way to make this work but me and my shaky emotions are dragging me under. And your sassy attitude is not making it any easier. So excuse me if I'm a little quick with the attitude, puffball. Keep the sass to yourself and shove it where the sun doesn't dare shine. And that's saying something considering Stilts over here radiates it like a bad rash.” 

“Well, I'm trying to help you get these emotions of yours settled. I'm trying to help you, not hurt you. Too bad you can't see that.” Cadence said with a grumble. Fury returned a snarl.

“I can see that! But it's not so appreciated when your help actually makes me more stressed and anxious! I'd rather you keep your mouth zipped!” Fury said.

Celestia went between them. “Alright let's calm down both of you. There's no need to fight.”

Fury's claws passively unsheathed slowly, his eyes already searching for paths to land a swing. He couldn't help himself, his emotions were in more of a back and forth than a seesaw, and the word ‘Fight’ just made it worse. A worrying twitch infected his claws, his fangs flashing the light from between his lips.

Fury simply breathed heavily.

“Cadence, I think you need to apologize and bring it down.” Celestia whispered to her.

Cadence nodded. “Fury, um… look, I'm sorry for getting you all uppity. How about we just move on to helping you with your romantic issues?”

Fury was still looking at her a bit hostile.

“Uh, Fury?” 

“Shut up.”

“Come on, Fury, I'm trying to help you! What more do you want?”

Fury didn't listen to a word she said, bashing her backwards. “Shut your mouth and know your place.” He snarled, walking away in silence.

“Fury! You apologize this instance-” Luna cried out.

Celestia covered her snout. “It's not worth it.” She whispered. “Fury seems to be going through one of his phases. Let's just let him be and see if Cadence is alright.”

They both looked to Cadence who was still collapsed.

“Are you alright?” Celestia asked.

“I'm fine. It wasn't very damaging. Though it did sting.” Cadence said. “Definitely not one of his stronger hits but still….”

The two both saw he seemed to be walking away from them, quite far away now, not paying attention to them.

“What do we do now?” Cadence asked, getting back up.

Luna walked a little closer and heard a few grumbles from Fury. He seemed to be talking to himself.

“She should be lucky I didn't rip that horn off her head, then we'll see who's got the magic of love then.” That complaint stuck out like a gold sword in a rust pile. He was definitely having one of his moments. She couldn't blame him though, his emotions have been toyed with many times and through multiple doctors visits that had been appointed to her to be kept abreast of, his mental state was fragile.

“Oh Fury. And to think I thought it would just be as simple as preparing him for another date.” Cadence said.

“Be patient. He’ll come through when the time is right.” Celestia said. 

“Do you think I should talk to him? Maybe I can help him as his marefriend.” Luna suggested.

“I think we've been going at this all wrong.” Cadence said, standing up. “We've been attacking this like he's just been going through a few rough patches. Just a few bad days. But what we haven't considered is the fact that this isn't a result of waking up on the wrong side of the bed, but the residual anger of what happened to him in his teen years.”

“We've been going at this like he's only been hitting a few bad spots when it should be us helping him through his trauma. Like therapy, what he needs is long term care. Not just a few switch ups of happiness to temporarily turn his mood around.”

Luna was astounded by this revelation from her niece. She herself knew how hard it was to solve your problems you had since foalhood. It required a lot of help from Celestia and even the Mane Six to help her.

“I see.” Luna said. “Poor Fury struggles so much with these feelings. I hope the best for him and hope we can help him. I hope I can help.”

“I suppose you're correct. The many times we've prevented him from going into one of his bad moods have only been temporary. We should be treating this the way it should be.” Celestia said.

“Are you saying we should put him in therapy?” Luna asked.

Her elder sister shook her head. “No. With what he's gone through, no Equestrian therapist would be able to help him. They would most likely think he is mentally ill with some of the answers he may give to their questions. Besides, it paints a bad picture on us as well as himself. He'd see us putting him in therapy as us saying that he has mental issues and we just can't handle trying to help him anymore.”

“Then what can we do? Do we just accept his agony then?” Luna asked.

“No, we must be patient. Fury just needs time. If we give it to him then I'm sure he'll be in a better state of mind. Only then can we really help him.” Celestia said. 

“I just hope he finds it in time. With his past, it may be a while before he recovers from whatever he's suffering through.”

They all nodded. They decided in the meantime to have some food for their troubles. As for Fury, he was in deep thought.

-

Fury was walking through streets with a scowl on the outside and sadness on the inside. 

He remembered all the stress he had traveled over the years. Nothing in Canterlot was new to him anymore, everything just blended together.

“She thinks she can just waltz up and spit in my face like I don't know what I'm doing? I don't think so. I'm the one who decides what I do, not some wannabe Cupid.” He huffed, still walking the streets without a care.

“What does it take to get a bit of sympathy for my worst instead of some snarky remark about my ‘attitude’? All I'm doing is maintaining my mental acuity so I can progress in life, what's the harm in that?”

Fury hit a wall with his paw in frustration. He was so done with everything that had been going on. “Why do I have to deal with all of this?”

Fury decided to keep walking. He was glad that there was almost no one on this street. He was starting to calm down a bit now. But he was still a bit ticked off.

“Gee, I need something to take my mind off all this. What can I do?” 

Fury then bumped into a sign in his frustration. But he saw it was a library. Perhaps an answer to his desires.

“Who knows. Maybe they'll have something good in there.”

He stepped inside and looked around at the scene. Ponies read silently in designated areas while others searched for their material in the countless aisles of literature. Fury already knew the drill here, so he kept quiet and let his padded paws keep his steps silent as he walked through the store.

Normally Fury would go for an adventure novel or a comic book. But today he felt like he needed something more practical for the situation, plus his rational side told him he needed something to cool off and get his mind back in order.

Walking to a random aisle, he turned down it and found many books focused on manners, ethics and etiquette.

Hmm, no surprise there are books on how to act in this city. Maybe I could do with a refresher of my manners at the dinner table? Who knows if Celestia decides to host a dinner party with all of the nobles and invites me.

Taking his pick, his paws grabbed a dinner etiquette book called “Dinner's Served: How To Mind Your Manners.” and moved on. 

Taking a look around him once more, he saw a few ponies jump at seeing him. He knew they weren't scared or threatened thanks to Celestia's training in detecting micro expressions and changes in mood, they were rather surprised by him. His silent steps most likely kept his presence mostly unknown to the ears and only let the eyes catch his admittedly intimidating sight as he slipped his way by without making a sound.

Moving down the back of the store he stopped at the entrance to an aisle that had books on his most prized item. Food. With a bit of a smile, he turned down the aisle and marveled at the many books on different types of food. But for the time being, he just snatched an all purpose history book named “Equestria’s Greatest Culinary Crafts.” and went to go find a secluded area for him to read.

He opened up the book and in it were a mix of modern photos and old photos or even centuries old drawings of classic cuisine. The book had some familiar recipes like the éclair, cupcake, cheesecake and hay-based foods. But what caught his eye were some of the more modern crafts like the Cal-zone, Stir fry rice, bean chili and even a strange curved bread called a Croissant. 

He was fairly impressed with what ponies were able to create, many of the creators of the foods having to take years to even get the recipe presentable.

But then, his eyes caught something that almost made him break the silence of the store. It was a recipe for the Dumplings he tried at the food festival he went to on vacation, but something was off. It had… a meat product listed as one of its ingredients. He flipped the page back and forth a few times to make sure he wasn't hallucinating and sure enough, the ink stuck. 

He looked over to the information part of the page and got a surprising explanation for the ingredient.

“During the time of making this version of the now more well known Dumpling, a chef by the name of Crafty Creamer decided to see how tolerant early pony society was. And so, he employed the help of allied Griffons to bring small amounts of beef to his restaurant where he incorporated the ingredient into his creation and fed it to the masses. And while most find it heresy to eat meat in any way by modern standards, many ponies actually enjoyed the taste of meat back then. Some ponies still do today, but they've either been run out of normal society by others or have secluded themselves to avoid scrutiny.” He read to himself quietly.

“By the emperor's whiskers, I didn't think any pony could actually stomach meat! Heh, I guess some ponies just have good taste.” He whispered. But then he got curious. He quickly got up and searched for a pony biology book and opened it, quickly flipping to the digestive system section and found something interesting.

“Despite modern beliefs, ethical divides and changes in preferences, Equestrian ponies have and still can eat and digest meat. Though many have switched to eating only herbs and hay for either personal/ethical reasons or preferences, early settlers actually hunted hogs and cattle to survive in harsh conditions, developing cooking techniques to rid the meat of disease and maximize nutrients. Though as the records show, many have cursed the very thought of hunting other animals to Tartarus and back in favor of an arguably healthier and ethically correct alternative.” Fury read.

“Huh. Looks like I'm gonna have some questions for Celestia when I finish. But for now, it's time to relearn my table manners” Fury said, switching to the dinner etiquette book and diving in.

–

Meanwhile, in the streets of Canterlot…

Celestia, Luna, Cadence and now Lauren were walking the streets in search of their feline friend, looking around the places they suspected he'd be. Diners, food stands, local sports areas, but no dice.

“We've been looking everywhere. This is ridiculous. I guess Shifters really are masters of stealth.” Cadence said.

“Everywhere? We've only checked some buildings around here.” Celestia said. 

“Yeah, the places I know he likes.” Cadence said. “There's no way places like a library would be hiding his face.”

“You mean what you know about him.” Luna said, speaking up. “Fury might like all those places you stated, but I've been around him long enough to know he has a literary side to him. At the very least a curious mind.”

“So you're saying he might be in there?” Cadence said.

“He might just be.” Luna said. “Let's go in and figure out if he's here or not.”

The four alicorns stepped inside and were greeted with the usual silence of a place such as a library. Ponies going back and forth with books and reading on their own or rather in groups. While the library was big and many walked in their sightlines, it wasn't hard for them to instantly notice a set of black paws in a sea of hooves.

“I think we found our Shifter.” Celestia said. “But let's be careful. Let's just see what he's doing first.”

They took a few steps over to a table and sat down within a good proximity of his seat. He was none the wiser of their presence as he read his book, a book that the princesses would notice was a dinner etiquette book.

“Are my eyes playing tricks on me or is our favorite speedster reading a book on dinner etiquette?” Cadence asked.

“It would seem so. A very strange sight indeed.” Luna concurred. “I know I said I was not surprised by him being in a library but I was not expecting him to have an interest in that.”

“Well I suppose everyone has a secret side to them that goes against our assumptions.” Celestia said.

“I wouldn't be so quick to assume, Tia.” Lauren chimed in. “I think this is less a secret interest but a personal refresher course. Perhaps he's brushing up on proper dining manners to prepare for a certain eventuality? Maybe in case of a dinner party or a royal dinner with the nobles?”

“I see.” Celestia said, nodding. It all made sense. “I suppose for Fury at this time of contemplation, he might be wanting some practical advice for himself.”

“But the weirdest stands to be discovered. Is that a… a pony biology book and a culinary history book?” Luna wondered aloud. All of the princesses looked between each other with confusion.

“Okay, that's it. I'm poking into his thoughts because this raises too many questions, who's in?” Luna asked in the most modern dialect she had spoken in years. All of the princesses nodded in agreement and allowed Luna to launch an invisible tether onto Fury's head and link their magic to listen in.

“Proper ways to use a salad fork? Good grief, ponies have strange rules.” Fury's mind echoed, his subconscious thoughts ringing out in a lower volume under it. He then looked back at the biology book and grabbed it, opening back to the section he was reading before.

“I can't believe Celestia never told me that ponies could actually eat meat, o-or even Twilight for that matter! I guess it's more of a moral dilemma than a biological one, but she's going to have to talk up some sense for me to understand that one.” His mind echoed. The princesses almost went pale at that thought. Then three of them turned to the solar monarch and glared at her.

“Auntie, did you really not tell Fury about the fact that we used to eat meat and some still do!?” Cadence harshly whispered.

“We could have saved him miles of underlying guilt of eating in public and you didn't say anything about such an important fact!?” Luna added. 

“Sweetie… as your mother and a former ruler of the land, I can possibly see where this was a topic of harsh origin to discuss. But this creature has torn the spine out of one of his own kind and nearly crippled another, you didn't think he could bear knowing that he wasn't alone in his dietary likes and dislikes?”

Celestia's ears flattened against her skull and proceeded to look down as she knew this was heavy stuff. “Well, I guess I didn't think it mattered. No, not just that. I guess I see our pony ways of abstaining from meat as a way to show our progress from the warlike world I was born into. I guess I wanted to show Fury we were an advanced society who progressed past our brutal ways. Of course I wasn't trying to degrade his society, at least on purpose.” She admitted.

“Tia… he has torn cockatrices to shreds and laid with a full belly among their bones with no remorse. I'm fairly certain he has no hard feelings towards the dark ages of our society.” Luna deadpanned. 

“And you'd be correct, I don't.” The princesses nearly screeched as they saw Fury was sitting with them instead of farther away.

“F-Fury! You heard everything we said?!” Celestia said in an unusually loud voice.

“We're in a nearly silent library and I've got ears that can pick up a pin dropping for miles, you'd think I'd be able to pick up on a whisper. Besides, you think I didn't sense the intrusion on my subconscious thoughts, Moonpie? I'm a god of Speed Shifters now, I have to be able to pick up on stuff like that now.” Fury said. 

“But then again, I don't exactly object to you listening in…” he said in a sultry whisper. 

“...Well, I'm glad you're not offended.” Luna said with a blush.

“Good grief, save it for the bedroom.” Cadence moaned. “Now, to address the metaphorical elephant in the room. You didn't know that ponies used to eat meat like you in the early days?” 

“Not a drop of info. And Cady… I'm sorry I got huffy with you. I just wasn't in my right mind at the moment.”

Cadence smiled. “Don't worry about it. I forgive you. I just want to move on to better things.”

Fury returned with his signature smile. “Now, onto the bigger picture. Mind explaining yourself, cushion tush?” Fury asked Celestia, snickering at his own joke.

Celestia rolled her eyes. “Glad to see you're in a better mood.” The other princesses laughed softly at her. “Well, it all comes down to what was available. When a creature is in a calm state it eats normally, but when it's in distress, in the midst of terror, it becomes desperate to eat anything.” Celestia said reminiscing. “Many times in the past ponies were in battle and we chose to eat rats, bugs, rabbits, to the point it became even a source of pride for certain chefs and even some aristocracy.”  

“I guess that's apparent considering the dumpling recipe I found earlier. Turns out, he used beef in it and ponies didn't break a sweat. Good grief Celly, you could have saved me so much second paw embarrassment.” Fury sighed.

Celestia chuckled slightly. “Yes, that probably would have been better, but I guess for many ponies, including myself, it felt like it reminded us of worse times. When we as herbivore ponies went against nature and had to eat anything to survive. When we finally had peace between the three pony races, we swore we would never be reduced to such a state.” Celestia said. “In hindsight, it was probably a bit dramatic and unnecessary to put such a taboo up, but I felt like if we went back to that state we would slowly become our warlike selves again. ”

“Pure gobbledygook. I've seen worse and I lived. Yeesh, I'm surrounded by moral driven weaklings.” The black feline huffed.

“You have morals too, Fury.” Cadence said. “You can at least understand that some have taboos from our history.”

“Yes, I can. But to say I have morals? By what most ponies think they can whisper under their breath without me hearing, apparently I don't have any.” Fury spat with a grumble. 

“Yep, to many I have no code of honor simply because I choose to eat meat. Somepony's dog does it and no one complains, but a sapient creature with actual cognitive thought? That's just way too far apparently. Regardless of if it's vital for their existence.” Fury said sarcastically. “I know it might be just cause I'm an outsider to pony life, but some of your ways, gee, they make as much sense as those Shadow Shifters.” 

“I suppose so.” Celestia admitted.

“I suppose for myself as somepony who had Thestrals as guards and never went with the trend, I had always questioned this line of thinking with our food.” Luna admitted. “But now I really understand how pointless it was, with Fury and how he needs to consume food like that.”

Fury was glad at least Luna was quite open about it. He knew there was a reason he liked her so much.

“Now that makes me think…” Cadence added. “Have any of you ever seen Spike eat anything but gems in his lifetime? I mean, dragons are carnivores too.”

Celestia reminisced back. “Well, Spike would eat gems a lot. As long as we gave him jewelry that gave him what he needed for his nutritional needs. Dragons are a mystery that way. But sometimes I noticed he sometimes tried to bite the limbs of me or Twilight when he was a baby. He probably had some idea of flesh as was usual for semi-carnivorous creatures like him. But we tried to dissuade him from that and told him that those were just weird urges like hiccups. And they should be ignored. Of course Spike eventually did, well mostly, but even then sometimes when he sees some fish Fluttershy feeds bears, he looks at it with fondness.” Celestia explained.

“Well you can't take the predator out of a dragon.” Fury said. “Even if I was in Spike's place and you tried to say meat was just a bunch of weird urges, well my nose would surely disagree with that. Not to mention the common sense to research my origins. As a matter of fact, didn't Spike go to the Dragonlands on his own a few years back to find out who he was?”

“He did actually, but that was many years before your arrival. He supposedly had become fed up with others treating him like an adorable pet and decided to find out he was ‘Supposed to act’. But he eventually came to his senses and returned with all gaining newfound respect for him.” Luna explained.

“Well, good for Spike. I guess it reminds me of when I used to live isolated from the other shifters after adulthood before meeting you guys. Trying to figure out who I was.” Fury reminisced with a brief silence. 

Fury then continued. “But getting back to the food issue, if ponies aren't as biologically restricted from eating meat as many say so, how come none have tried to find an alternative? This may sound like science fiction here, but maybe a genetically modified version of meat could be achieved? Perhaps in the coming months, a couple of esteemed scientists could figure out how to turn plants into a sort of plant based meat substitute.”

“Some scientists have tried it but we never paid too much heed to it. We thought it to be a minor issue not worth government spending on.” Celestia said. 

“Well, think about it. Ponies are gonna have to get used to meat products being more readily available now that it's more than just me, my parents and Pyro in Equestria now. By the time the flood gates really do open up, we'll have full on markets dedicated to meat springing up everywhere. And it may sound ridiculous, but I have a feeling at least one pony out there may get curious as to why we carnivores are so fond of the stuff. It's just a matter of inevitability.” Fury returned, his ambassador side on full display.

The princesses did have to admit Fury may have had a point. After all, even normal ponies had a curiosity of the exotic smell of both cooked and raw meat.

“I will look into this plant based meat. Your diplomatic skills paid off today.” Celestia complimented.

“Good. You should probably get Twilight into this too. Both because she'd be practically chomping at the bit to have the opportunity to discover a new food source and she'd hate me for life if I didn't tell her.” Fury chuckled.

The others chuckled along. It felt nice to be agreeing on things as controversial as meat consumption and being able to work on solutions with diplomacy.

“Okay, how about we get out of here and grab some lunch? I know we were talking about meat, but regardless, my stomach is starting to break the silence.” Cadence said, her cheeks a noticeably darker shade of pink.

“You’re speaking my language, Cady. My stomach needs some nourishment right now. Let's get out of here ladies.” Fury said, getting up and leaving the door with his royal squad in tow.

–

“Ugh, what a ghost town! There's nothing good around here.” Fury huffed. “It's like you Canterlot snot brains have no taste, even in pony food!”

“As blunt as ever I see.” Luna said with a chuckle. “Well, you just have to be patient because I know there are places in this district you'll take a liking to.”

“Yeah, we'll see about that. It better taste like heaven on earth, that's for sure.” Fury said with his stomach grumbling. “Easy boy, we'll find something soon.” 

“Don't worry, I'm sure we're close to something good. It shouldn't be too hard to find some food.” Cadence reassured him.

“I sure hope so.” He said trying to eye in on anything food related.

As they kept walking they kept on yearning for something food related. All they got were clothes, jewels and anything not food. But after wandering around they finally got their wish.

“Wait… My nose has got something. I smell something promising.” Fury said, rushing his way to the target.

“Wait for us!” Luna said, now having to run to catch up to a fast Fury.

After a few minutes, Fury finally got his wish. 

“Finally some restaurant! And wow, this place looks a little unsophisticated.” Fury said.

“I know we can find another one-”

“And that's the way I like it! Nothing pretentious or a bunch of fussy ponies secretly analyzing the way I eat.” Fury said. “I think I can smell… cheese, onions, peppers. This already sounds good.”

He saw the sign showing it was a burger joint called Burger Ray's. 

“Well what are we waiting for ladies?! Let's chow down!” Fury said.

The group walked inside and were greeted by an old fashioned diner. Checkered walls in red and white, metal ceiling with dangling lights, a jukebox, separate booths with bright red leather. It was all reminiscent of Equestria's older times.

“Wow, talk about old fashioned. This place looks almost identical to Goldie's place back home.” Fury said, thinking back to that infamous cheese goo moment. “Ah brings back familiar memories.” 

He even saw foals playing in an area with murals of mascots on the walls. From heroes to villains. It looked like all the foals were having fun.

Fury took a hearty sniff of the air and was pleased with his findings.

“Gooey Parmesan cheese, grilled buns, ketchup, fried onion rings. Hoooo, great goddesses, take me away.” He said, feeling like he could faint.

“Don't pass you out on us, Fury. We have to order the food. As princesses, they'll give us a discount. And we're going in for a special treat.” Celestia said.

“Special treat? Oh good grief, you're gonna make my stomach claw its way out of me.”

Everyone walked to the counter. Fury had to resist his mouth watering from all the delectable choices.

“Hello there, ambassador and princesses, I hope you had a good day. How may I help you?” The cashier asked.

“I'll take a batch of hay fries and a cola.” Lauren said.

“A light salad and some water for me.” Celestia requested.

Luna sighed. “Always the minimalist. I'll take the Hayburger supreme with extra ketchup and hold the pickles.”

“Three double hayburgers with all the stuffings, a batch of hay fries and a cola.” Cadence said.

“And yet you still deny your appetite isn't on par with mine.” Fury chuckled, getting an eye roll from the love goddess.

“Oh hush. Now what about you, brainiac?” Cadence childishly shot back.

Fury was contemplating a bit, and he was curious about a particular choice. It looked like one of those funky croissants, but the bread was lighter. There also appeared to be three holes dotted on top with a yellowish goo on the inside.

“Wow, that's quite a sandwich. Never saw one like that before.”

“Oh that? That is no sandwich. That is a calzone. Cheesy goodness all around. Brought in by the son Burger Ray himself. You can't beat the cheese here in Canterlot.”

“I'll take it!” Fury said. 

“I thought so. Coming right up!”

When the calzone was finally made, Fury was so excited. It was bigger than the usual size and the aroma of it was quite pleasant to Fury.

Fury took the meal to his table and was ready to dig in.

“I take it you're excited about this calzone?” Celestia asked.

“Yep! And also something seems very interesting about its smell. It's not just cheese… Something else tasty is in here. Well, I guess I'll figure it out in due time.” Fury said. 

He took a big bite of the calzone and could just feel the cheese flowing. He hadn't had cheese that good since he was at his village. 

But while it was good, it felt different from other pony cuisines. There was a taste that resembled…

“Wait, is that… meat?” Fury asked. He looked inside the Cal-zone and sure enough, small bits of beef could be seen embedded in the cheese.

“Why, it appears to be so.” Celestia said.

“You think it's a prank?” Cadence pondered.

“No. This was intentional, something meant to get my attention. Somepony working here has a soft spot for my approval, it seems.” Fury theorized, making a glance at the kitchens behind the register with his keen eyes.

“Well, I'll be darned, I think they made me some meat. Looks like they got a whole box of it.” Fury said. “Never thought ponies would even wanna touch meat to begin with.” 

“I think I know why. They want to be on good terms with you.” Lauren said. “News has been getting around about your babysitter arriving recently and I suppose in response, they want to make sure not only you're comfortable, but the rest of your kind are comfortable eating in public.”

Fury had a big smile from that. He was happy to know there were ponies who didn't care about his people's affinity for meat. 

“But wait, they had this meat available in the first place? Did they plan for me to come here?” Fury wondered.

“Not likely, it would have been an obvious change that even I would have seen.” Luna said plainly. “They most likely have adapted over time with the recurring theme of more carnivores such as yourself entering our borders.”

“Well in that case I really need to be here more often. I'll be sure to give the pony behind this establishment a token of my gratitude.” Fury said. “This place for sure is ambassador approved.”

Fury walked up to the counter and put a golden medallion down on top. An old coin that represented trust and loyalty. And a letter he wrote thanking the establishment for their hospitality.

Fury with a pleased smile and a relaxed disposition stretched and was ready to hit the road. He was now quite full.

“You ready to go, ladies?” Fury asked.

“Okay.” Faust said. “Are you ready to take a rest at the towers and be ready for Manehattan?”

“Manehattan? What's going on there?”

“Well, besides where your former babysitter is going, it also has some rumors of secret meetings going on. What with some ponies still believing in the Chosen One coming back. Maybe Blueblood is trying to reestablish himself in Manehattan.”

“Ugh, I've honestly had enough of that dillweed.” Fury said, flexing his young age. “But I'm off duty for the rest of the year. Didn't your daughters tell you?”

“I was. But I mostly say this as a warning just to make sure if you go to Manehattan to be very careful. I honestly wonder if it wouldn't be better for you two to meet in a different city.” Faust said.

“That makes sense. I'll ask Shining Armor for some favors and have her escorted personally to my place just to be safe. I'll have to tell my parents and Pyro too unless they already know.”

“It's a deal. We can make all that work.” Celestia said. “We will be sure to help. Now shall we leave for the palace?”

“You've got me interested. Let's roll, I'm looking forward to just cuddling down- I mean snuggling- No! Settling down for the day.” Fury stammered, trying to cover his butt.

“Sure, settling down.” Cadence said with a chuckle. “Alright, let's not delay then. Let's be on our way.” 

So everypony and Fury went on their way back home fully appreciative of all the fun they had even with a few arguments. And eventually, they will meet a new guest. Though the way they would meet was going to be a rather strange one.