Richard Pound
In:
Reckoning
There was a knock at the door. I tried to ignore it; this was it for me. The knocking persisted. I could hear yelling. It was a female’s voice. I threw the revolver to the ground and ran to the door. I threw it open and acted nonchalant.
“What’s up, ba-” That’s as far as I got when I realized who it was. It was Karen. “Karen, what are you doing here?” She hurried inside.
“Dick, there’s no time. You’ve got to come with me. Pack up your things and let’s go.” I had so many questions to ask her.
“Karen, I don’t understand. What’s going on?” She shoved a few clothes she had picked out of my closet into my hands.
“I don’t think you want to go to jail do you? I’m saving you. Now let’s go.” We headed out the door together.
That was what she told me happened years ago, when I gave up being a detective. I couldn’t believe it, but I had to be true. I was wanted back in California, for that…accident. This life had been easier to live as the years crawled by.
“What do you want for breakfast, honey? I know you have a big day at the firm today.” Karen kissed my forehead; she had done this every day. I snapped out of my thoughts, she was right. I had bigger fish to fry.
“Oh you know, the usual.” She giggled at that.
“You need to eat more. Can’t have grapefruit for breakfast every day.” I kissed her as she brought me my grapefruit. I dug in; this was the most important meal of the day. In a deep part of mind, I thought of bacon. I squashed that thought immediately; after all, bacon was bad for my heart. I glanced at my watch, it was already 7:30, and I was going to be late. I grabbed my hat and ran out the door.
“Don’t forget to pick up Jimmy after work!” Karen called after me. I gave her a nod from behind and got into my car. It was brand new, only bought last month. It had been expensive, but the raise from the firm had made it easier on us.
“Big day today, Richard huh? You ready to meet the stockholders?” Barney was always trying to make it hard on me. He knew I had it in the bag.
“Barney, this sale is going to be so easy we might as well not even hold the meeting.” He laughed at that. A distant thought came about, whiskey this time. I squashed that thought just as before. I hadn’t touched alcohol since California. I knew I couldn’t handle it anymore; it had ruined my life. “Well Barney, I’ve got to do my job now.” He gave me a salute, I smiled at that. Barney really was the best.
I picked up my briefcase and headed towards the meeting room. We were using the main meeting room today; it was a very important meeting. Today we were pitching an idea that would potentially bring in millions.
I addressed the assembled stockholders, “Good morning everyone. I think you may want to know why I had you all show up today. You see, we’ve come up with a brilliant new strategy that you may want to hear…” I began to recite the lists of facts and statistics to the crowd. From the looks on their faces, they were enjoying every minute of it; especially the part about the profit gain. One of them raised his hand. I stopped the speech for a moment, “Yes, you in the back?”
He stood up, “Don’t you think we shouldn’t bet the apple farm on this one?” Applejack…
“Excuse me?” He looked angry; he probably thought I wasn’t listening.
“I said, don’t you think that we need to keep all the books in the library? At least until the ceremonies over.” Some of the stockholders began to nod, others cheered. I was losing them now.
“Gentlemen please. This idea is foolproof.” A few of the remaining stockholders on my side cheered, he did not relent.
“I think you may have gone Ditzy on this.” Why did the words he was saying conjure up such strange memories? What was going on here? I felt a little sick.
“If you’ll excuse me, my associate will take over the demonstration.” I walked off the stage past a bewildered Barney. He took the stage, apologizing for my disappearance.
“What were you doing up there, Dick? You got killed!” Barney was standing next to me. We were in the men’s room. I splashed water onto my face. “That deal will never go through.” I turned to Barney.
“Barney, I don’t know what came over me. I just couldn’t get my head straight.” He let out a big sigh.
“Dick, we might lose millions now. We could be fired.” Those words echoed through me. If I were to be fired, how could my family survive? I grabbed the sink with both hands, leaning on it for support. I knew I had made a mistake in that meeting. I looked Barney in the eye.
“Barney, everything is going to be fine, you did great.” He didn’t share my optimism. I decided it was time to get my head back into the game. I headed for my cubicle.
My cubicle was bare compared to most others, containing only a cup of writing instruments, a few pads of paper and a photo of my family; Karen, Jimmy and I. The photo was from a few years ago. It was at the park near our house, I was holding jimmy up the monkey bars, Karen stood a few feet away laughing. That picture always made me smile, thinking of the simpler times. I could hear a light tapping at the doorway to my cubicle. I turned to see the boss’s secretary in front of me.
“Mr. Pound, The president would like to see you in his office. Now.” She told me in a deadpan voice. She didn’t move from the spot, clearly there to lead me to an unpleasant conversation. I nodded and got up.
“Dick… you are a great man, an important man too. Just tell me one thing. Did you mean to fuck that up? Or was it merely you failing miserably? I’d like to imagine the former.” The boss sat behind a large mahogany desk, cluttered with stacks of paper. An ashtray on the desk held a still smoldering cigar.
“Well, I was doing fine until one of them asked a question. I just lost it.” His controlled face didn’t change.
“You lost your multi-million dollar pitch… To a single question? What the hell, Dick? You should have expected a damn question!” I felt myself tremble to his anger.
“Sir, I’m sorry. I just, uh, couldn’t focus.”
“Get out of here, Dick. I have to decide what to do with you.” I scurried out of his room and went to the elevator. The secretary muttered an apology for bringing me here. It wasn’t her fault and I knew that. I went to pick up Jimmy early from daycare.
“Honey, how was your day?” Karen was massaging my shoulders; she tried to do this every day. She loved the hell out of me, I imagined.
“It was alright, sweetie.” She kissed my head.
“That’s good. Now you sit here; I’m going to get dinner started.” She left the room and I could hear her open the fridge and moving around pots and pans. I picked up the newspaper beside me. It contained all the boring news it always did. As I turned the pages, a few words would catch my eye; The Prancing Pony is shutting down, Horse races, twilight getting longer as winter approaches. What did it all mean? My head flashed with brief memories, none of them too clear but all of them powerful.
I was lying there in bed next to Karen. She was sleeping peacefully; always falling asleep before me. In the silence, I could swear I could hear voices; I strained to hear them but they always stayed just out of clarity. There was a crash downstairs, I leapt out of bed. I grabbed the gun I kept in my nightstand, just in case. I made sure it was loaded and the safety off.
I crept towards the stairs, peeking over the bannister for any intruders. Another crashing noise erupted as I descended the stairs. There was a light in the kitchen, and a shadow cast out of the doorway. I slowly approached the doorway; there was the sound of something eating. I jumped through the door and aimed at the intruder it was a… pony?
Chapter II
“Is he awake?” My eyes showed a blurry world in front of me, gray clashed with bright colors, vague shapes populating it.
“Wh-where…” My mouth was dry and I could hardly talk. I tried to move my hands to my face, but it was different.
“Richard, are you ok? Someone get him water.” A commanding voice barked orders above me. I looked like it came from a big, white, thing. My eyes began to clear; I was in a castle’s bedroom. Besides me appeared a familiar pony… Celestia.
“P-princess, I…” She cut me off.
“Richard, don’t talk.” A guard appeared with a glass of water. She took it from him and passed it to me. “Here, drink this.” She said. I drank the water, it hurt a little but the feeling of refreshment far outdid that.
“Thank you, Celestia.” I finally managed to say. She smiled at me, her grin made me feel happy to be here.
“Dick, I’ve got someone who wants to see you.” I knew what that meant. Twilight burst through the door to the bedroom. I tried to get up but I couldn’t, my muscles were incredibly weak. She rushed over and embraced me in a hug so tight I thought we would fuse together. Tears came from both of us.
“Oh, Dick. I’ve missed you so much!” Twilight said into my shoulder.
“Twilight, I love you more than anything!” I said into hers.
“I’ll leave you two alone.” Celestia said as she walked away. I couldn’t believe that Twilight was back in my life. Then I remember Karen and Jimmy, I would miss them dearly but they were only in my dreams; Twilight was my true wife. After an eternity the embrace ended, a little bit too soon for my taste.
“Twilight, when did you wake up?” I asked her.
“I only woke up this morning. Celestia opted to wake you up later, so you’d be very well rested.” We both laughed at that.
“But honey, well rested for what?” She blushed a little. Surely Celestia didn’t think we were going to make love in here.
“For your ceremony, dear. You’re a hero!” My eyes opened wide, along with my jaw. I’m a hero?
“Oh my god, Twilight. That’s amazing.” She nodded.
“Yeah, it’s in an hour.” I knew what I wanted to do for that hour, and it was to spend it alone with Twilight. Just sitting in the bedroom with her was amazing.
Celestia was standing at the podium on the stage; she was addressing the assembled royalty and ponies from all across Equestria. Twilight and I stood behind the curtains, out of sight for now. I was feeling nervous, not one to talk in front of crowds that much.
“May I have the great pleasure in welcoming the hero who saved Equestria only a few years ago. Richard Pound!” She beckoned me onto the stage, my knees wouldn’t move me. Twilight gave me a push from behind. She had to push me all the way to the podium. The assembled crowd chuckled, probably thinking it comedy. I stood at the podium. The crowd grew silent, waiting to hear what I had to say.
“Hello all. I want to thank you all for coming here. I’m pretty sure you’re here for a speech from me, or the free food. I don’t know,” some of the crowd laughed, the non-royalty, my people. “Well believe it or not, I just woke up from the most glorious nap. I know you all see me as a big hero, the one who saved Equestria. I won’t deny that it was hard, and sometimes I thought I wouldn’t prevail, but there was one thing that made me keep going. It was hope. Hope that I would see my home, my friends, and most importantly my family.” I could feel myself coming to tears over the ordeals from that. The things I had to do.
I continued my speech, “I won’t say that I’m proud of everything I did; it wouldn’t be possible. There were times when I wondered who was worse, them or me. I was held for ten days in the dungeons, a suspect of being a traitor to the throne. I don’t know what happened to the man who caused it, but I pity him. He was used, like a pawn, in a game bigger than he should be in.” I was talking about Bastion, the man who had tortured me for ten days in that hellish prison. “I think that any pony in my position would have done that same thing, but I would rather it happen to me than anyone else. It took a lot of work, but in the end it was all worth it. I want to thank you for coming. Thank you. It would never have been possible if it wasn’t for my wife, Twilight. Thank you all for coming. ” I bowed my head and turned back to Twilight, she was crying. Celestia stood in front of the podium now.
“Richard, I don’t know if it’s possible to give you a big enough reward, but I would like to give you something the throne hasn’t given out for centuries.” There were hushed murmurs among the crowd, wondering what it was. Celestia motioned for me to stand in front of her. Her horn glowed white and upon my flank was inscribed a small shield above the cutie mark. “I hereby declare you Sir Richard Pound, knight of Equestria.” The crowd began to cheer wildly. Twilight put her head against my neck.
Chapter III
The party was at full momentum. No part of the castle was spared from music, laughter, and merriment. Twilight and I were barraged by well-wishers all night, but we finally found a moment for ourselves.
“Dick, I’m so happy for you.” We were in one of the castle’s gardens. The moonlight reflecting on a still pool of water. I could still hear the music from the classical era from one room, and the newer music being played by some DJ in another, I’d wanted to talk with the pony playing the cello, she was really good.
“Twilight, I could never have done it without you. You know that.” She blushed again.
“Dick, I wasn’t even awake for it. You must’ve-” I stopped her there.
“Twilight, if it wasn’t for you and your books I would have never known anything about the revolution.” She looked away shyly. “You’re a hero as much as I am.” I nuzzled her hair.
“Whatever you say, Dick.” We decided to go back into the party, I felt like dancing. The rest of the party passed in a blur; it was a night of drinking, eating, and dancing. It ended with us sitting near Celestia as the party ended, most of the ponies either downed on the floor or heading back to their homes. Twilight was sleeping, her head resting on my back.
“Celestia, what happened while we were asleep?” Celestia pulled a scroll out of midair jokingly.
“Well let’s see. Firstly there were letters asking where the hero was and what happened. Then we had letters of anger after I told them it would be a while until they saw you. Lastly Luna came back and healed Twilight. I let her off the hook for that. Then I woke you up. Is that all, Dick?” I shrugged.
“How is our home in Ponyville? Is it still okay?” She nodded.
“Your home is fine, I think your friends made sure to take care of it while you were gone. I think they also have a party for your arrival tomorrow.” It saddened to think that I hadn’t been able to see my friends for years.
“Celestia, how long were we out?” I asked her.
“You and Twilight were out for a little over three years. I’m sorry it took so long, Richard.” I sighed.
“You did the best you could, Celestia. No one can fault you for that.” I looked at Twilight sleeping next to me. It was getting pretty late; I told the princess that it was time for us to go to bed. She yawned an agreement.
“Would you like me to teleport you to your bed?” I shook my head. I’d rather just let Twilight sleep peacefully. I rested my head on a nearby pillow and drifted off to sleep.
The next morning passed by without much action. Celestia asked us if we’d like to be teleported back home. I told Celestia that I was getting pretty tired of teleportation. Both she and Twilight seemed to understand my point. Celestia told us that there had been a train set up that connected Canterlot and Ponyville; we opted to take it.
Celestia set us off with a royal accompaniment of guards. I recognized one of the guards; he was one who had brought me to Bastion’s torture room. When he saw me, he got on his knees and cried, he tried to kiss my hooves.
“Please, don’t do that. It’s ok.” He looked up at me with great sorrow.
“I’m so sorry; I didn’t know he was bad. We all believed him. I’m so sorry!” He bowed his head once more. I picked him up and set him on his feet.
“Listen, I understand why you did it; it isn’t your fault. I did some pretty terrible things back then too. I don’t blame you.” It was then that he looked at me, a great sense of joy in his face. We made our way to the train station after that. Ponies on the street stopped and cheered as I passed by, I waved to all that I could.
A young pony came to me, rushing away from his mother. He stopped in front of me, looking at me expectedly.
“Can I help you, little man?” I asked him.
“You’re that knight! This is so cool! I want to be like you when I grow up.” He scampered away finally, at his mother’s insistence.
We finally were at the train station. The guards ponies said their goodbyes and left. Twilight and I boarded the train, Celestia had reserved a car all for us. We sat across from each other.
“Richard, they really look up to you now.” Twilight said to me as a grin broke across her face.
“Yeah, I guess they do.” I looked out of the window, the scenery was passing by now, mostly mountains. Twilight’s gaze did not leave me. It turned back to her. “Is something the matter?”
“Richard, being with you has made me the happiest I’ve ever been. That kid that came up to you today he sort of got me thinking of something. Richard, I think it’s time we thought about a kid of our own.” Twilight said with reluctance.
“Twilight, if you think that you’re ready, then so am I.” Relief washed over her face.
“I was hoping you’d be amazing like always, Richard.” Finally she looked away from me and out the window. “The view really is great isn’t it?”
Chapter IV
“Surprise!” The light turned on as soon as we opened the door to the library. All the ponies of Ponyville were inside, prominent were our five greatest friends; Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie. The room was decked in streamers and balloons. Many ponies adorned party hats and noise makers.
Twilight said, “It’s so great to see all of you!” I remained speechless, unable to find suitable words. I’d always been a man of few words, and sleep didn’t help it either. The girls came and circled around us; we fell to the floor in a pile of laughing ponies. Somepony fired Pinkie’s party cannon and confetti covered us on the floor. Pinkie was the first to get up.
“Don’t spend all day on the ground, girls. There’s cake!” We got up and I began to make my way to the punch bowl. I saw Berry Punch enjoying herself there; she was always one to enjoy fine drinks. I poured myself a moderate glass of punch, it was non-alcoholic of course. I sipped it slowly as I watched Twilight acclimate herself with the going-ons of the town; I knew she would tell me all about it later.
Rainbow Dash was the first one to address the crowd, “I’ve heard from sources that somepony in here is a hero! I wonder who that could be?” She eyed me clearly. I knew I wasn’t getting out of this without notice; I took center stage with her.
“Yes, it’s true I was hailed a hero by Celestia. I was named the first knight in recent Equestrian history.” The crowd cheered, probably not knowing what the title meant; I didn’t know for sure either. Twilight told me she’d look it up later. “I know you may think that makes me cool or special, so congratulations on that. You’re right. But that doesn’t mean I’m not your friend. I’m still good old Richard, Twilight’s husband.” They gave a brief laugh.
Rainbow Dash gave me a pat on the back. Everypony went back to their mingling. I felt relief that the attention was off me, I didn’t like being in the center of attention. I’d always been someone who liked being either alone or in a crowd, not the center of attention.
A door of full of broken glass greeted me at the scene; the police left me alone, knowing how I worked. I’d heard it was a burglary of an old crown; something before the sister’s rule. Worth an unknowable sum, whoever took it must be either very brave or very stupid. I don’t think that any fence would accept the crown, but maybe this burglary was for some greater purpose, I couldn’t know for sure, not yet at least. I headed inside of the gallery. The crown display was in the grand display area, just beyond the entrance; not far in for someone to walk.
The crown was normally in the center of the room on a pedestal covered in a glass box. The box had magic runes inscribed into it for protection; they would trigger alarms if broken. Although when I arrived at the pedestal the glass box was gone. The thief or thieves must have gotten rid of it somehow, perhaps magic. I peered inside the groove in which the glass would have been connected to the pedestal; there were no signs of glass at all. The pedestal held on the pillow on which the crown rested. It was of no significance to me. I didn’t know who would steal the old crown, but I had to find out. I went back outside to talk with Celestia; it was she who had called me here.
“Princess, it appears as though the thieves took the charmed glass with them, and no witnesses leaves me little to go on.” She frowned as I told her the bad news.
“Richard, you must solve this! It’s very important to the kingdom. That crown is an incredible artifact of older times. It’s your task as knight to find it once more.” I sighed, Celestia had filled me in on what being a knight for her meant. It was basically like being the official helper of the throne with a cool title.
Relenting, I said, “Fine, Celestia. I will find the crown.” I made my leave of the scene. I was still pretty mad at Celestia for making me come to Canterlot only three days after my return to Ponyville. Twilight decided to stay back in Ponyville, mingling with all of her friends once more. Somewhere inside of me I was slightly relieved not to have Twilight around me. I turned my thoughts to a more important matter; getting back the crown. I would have to check with some art dealers tomorrow. I decided to head back to my room for the night.
Chapter V
I was given a guest room at the castle for the duration of the case. Celestia made sure my every whim was catered to while I was here. I was getting quite annoyed of the servants coming and asking if everything was ok. Celestia was there to greet me for breakfast in the morning. When I sat at the table, a waiter placed a plate of fresh fruits in front of me. Celestia was eyeing me, making sure I was happy with the plate. She looked happier when I began to eat.
Finally I asked her, “What’s so important about the crown?” She dabbed at her mouth with her napkin before speaking.
“It’s very old and a symbol of old rulers. It’s very precious to my sister and I,” She responded.
“Oh, well alright. I was thinking of seeing some art dealers to see if they might know any art fences.” She nodded.
“I can send you off with a guide. He can help you find bigger art dealers.” She said.
“That sounds great. Thank you.” I told her. She sent for a guide as we finished breakfast. He arrived quickly, out of breath from running.
He introduced himself, “Hello there, my name’s Herald and I’m going to be your guide today, sir knight.” He bowed slightly. I looked him up and down. He wore a suit jacket and a monocle, his cutie mark was a compass rose, must be good at geography, I thought to myself.
“Hello, Herald. I’m Richard; it’s a pleasure to meet you.” He smiled, happy that I was happy with him. I stood up from the chair and said, “Why don’t we get going, Herald? We’ve got quite the day ahead of us.”
“Of course, sir.” We left the castle. It wasn’t until we passed the royal gardens that I spoke again.
“Herald, don’t call me ‘sir’, please.” He looked at me funny.
“But sir, uh, Richard, it’s your title. I feel obligated to call you by it.”
“Listen, just please call me Richard, Rich or Dick. It doesn’t matter. Now that that is settled let’s move on to important business. We’ve got to find some art dealers.” He nodded.
“I know just the guy; his name is Water Color. He’s one of the most well-known dealers in Canterlot.” I agreed and we went to Water Color’s studio which was in the center of Canterlot’s bustling merchant district.
“Why do you waste my time? What do you want?” Water Color asked us impatiently. He barked orders at his subordinates who were running around trying to set up for an auction tonight. It had taken an hour for him to even talk to us.
Herald was the one to talk next, “But Water Color, a very important crown was taken from a museum and we thought you might know some art buyers.” Water Color looked down on Herald.
“Listen little pony, I would never reveal my secrets. It’s my business.” Water Color said dramatically. I spoke next.
“Water Color please. We need you to tell us where we could find any underground art dealers or fences. It’s very important.” He scoffed at me.
“Dick, I will tell you nothing! Now be gone!” He turned around to his subordinates, yelling at them to hurry. Herald and I looked at each other, clearly knowing this was getting us nowhere. We headed outside. The roads were filled with ponies coming and going, spending the day shopping.
I needed a plan, if Water Color wasn’t going to talk to us; we needed some ponies that would. I needed to find somepony who knew the underground scene. I turned to Herald.
“Where can I find the slum area?” I asked him. He looked frightened.
“Why would you want to go there? It’s dangerous.” I raised my eyebrow in disbelief.
“What do you mean dangerous? It’s just another part of the city. Come on let’s go.” He gave a meager whimper and started walking deeper into Canterlot.
The slums were a dark and dirty part of Canterlot. Eerie black clouds clung to the tops of the building, shrouding the alley ways and roads in a strange twilight. Windows were boarded up frequently and graffiti adorned the buildings. Nopony looked happy to be here. Herald and I were walking down the street; he looked terrified to be here. I took note of the graffiti on the buildings, looking for familiar sign. Finally I found something that looked right.
“In here, Herald.” He nearly jumped out of his skin.
“We can’t go in there!” He squeaked out.
“Why not?” I asked him.
“Because! That’s why.” I rolled my eyes. Herald was afraid of everything. I opened the door and walked inside. It was a small room with a teller’s window on the back wall; the room was bare otherwise except for a candle or two. I approached the window. A voice came from behind it.
“What are you looking for?” said the voice.
“I’m looking for something stolen, got anything?”
“Who’s asking?” came the voice.
“Richard’s asking. Now do you have anything?”
“Give me a second.” There was the sound of walking and rustling of paper. It took a few minutes until the voice came back. “Anything in particular?” the voice asked.
“I’m looking for a crown. Maybe you’ve heard of it.” Something dropped from behind the wall.
“We don’t know anything about that. At least nothing you need to know.” I grabbed a few bits from my money pouch and passed them through the window; they were picked up quickly. “Maybe we know something. We haven’t heard for sure who did it, but there are rumors…” The voice trailed off. I knew what needed to be done. I grabbed more bits and slid them through; these were grabbed just as quickly. “It may have been Mad Max and his crew, but we haven’t heard anything.”
“Is that all you’ve got for us?” The voice said nothing. I looked at Herald, he was shivering.
“Are w-we done here, Richard?” He said.
“Yeah, Herald. We’re done here. Let’s go back to the castle for now.” A wave of relief came over him.
Chapter VI
The princess was busy meeting somepony when we returned. I decided to have lunch while I waited for her. The servants brought me a fresh salad and more fruit; they also brought a fine wine. I normally didn’t drink wine, but I felt it would be rude to not take it. It tasted sweet and left a strange aftertaste.
I thought about what I found out today. Somepony named Mad Max might be behind the heist. I’d have to learn about him a fair bit. It took nearly ten minutes for the princess to arrive at the dining room I was using. She sat at her spot at the end of the table.
“I’m sorry you had to wait for me, Dick. Royal business takes most of my day, you know.” She said after she sat down.
I nodded, “I know, princess. I appreciate that you take the time with me even now. I came across the name of somepony who might be responsible for the heist; his name is Mad Max. Do you know anything about him?” She looked away for a second, concentrating hard.
“I don’t think I’ve heard of him, sorry Dick.” She told me as she turned back.
“It’s ok, princess. You can’t know everything.” I finished my glass of wine. I thought I saw Celestia watching me drink it, but I couldn’t be sure.
“You look a little tired, Richard. Why don’t you take the rest of the day off and start again tomorrow?” It was hardly two in the afternoon.
“Are you sure, Princess? I could do a lot more today.” She put her hoof on my shoulder.
“Nonsense, Dick. You look exhausted. I insist you take the day off take a nap and meet me down here for dinner. Ok?” I wasn’t going to get her to give up. She probably felt bad for taking me from Twilight so suddenly. I decided to follow her advice and headed back to my room. It was in one of the closer wings of the castle so it took only minutes to get in my room. The bed had been made since the night before and everything was nice and tidy. A fire was going in the fireplace; warming up the cold room. I got inside the bed and slowly drifted off to sleep.
“I must be dreaming.” I said as I looked at my hands. I was human again, but I was in my room in Celestia’s castle. I got out of the bed, there was someone knocking on the door.
“Are you there, sir knight? It’s time for dinner.” Came a voice from behind the door. The knocking continued. I approached the door and grasped the handle and opened the door. The voice had come from a man as well; he was dressed like the servants.
“I’ll be down in a second.” He nodded and walked away; I closed the door. I grabbed my things and headed to the dining hall. The guards and servants were all humans instead of ponies. Finally I got to the dining hall where Celestia should be waiting for me. I slowly opened the door.
It wasn’t the Celestia I knew at the end of the table. It was a woman, tall with long, flowing hair. She wore an elegant, yet simple dress. She smiled when I walked in the room, beckoning me closer. I walked up to her and she motioned to the seat in front of me, I sat. She beamed at me, expectantly.
“I’ll have you know, this is one of the grandest dreams I’ve had.” I said to her finally. She gave a slight giggle.
“Oh, Richard. You do know how to charm a lady.” The servant brought two steaks to the table and a bottle of wine, similar to the one at lunch. I poured for the both of us. It was Celestia who spoke first, “how was your rest, Dick?”
“It was alright.” I spoke through mouthful of steak. It was medium-well, my personal favorite. It tasted so real as well. “Did you find out anything about Mad Max?” I asked her.
“No, I’m afraid not. He isn’t in any of our records.” I looked down; that was some bad news. I considered going back briefly to that building where I first found out about Mad Max, but that pony behind the window would be gone by now. What was I thinking? This is still a dream here. I wasn’t going to be able to do anything.
Celestia spoke and brought me from my thoughts, “Richard, I’ve got a party tonight and I would like to take you as my date. I know you’re a married man but I’m asking you as a friend. Will you come?” I thought about it for a second before responding.
“Of course I will, Celestia. It would be my honor.” She put her hand over her chest, relieved.
“You don’t know what this means to me, Dick. I hope you know how to dance; I love to dance.” I didn’t know how to dance at all.
“I can figure it out I think. Celestia, I don’t have anything to wear.” She looked at me in my brown trench coat and gave an audible hmph.
“I see, well you can get one of your suits from Ponyville. Can’t you? I’ll send you there immediately.” She waved one of her hands around and suddenly I was back in mah crib. Twilight wasn’t there so I went straight to the closet and grabbed a suit. I wondered how Celestia would know I was ready but I didn’t have long to wonder as she teleported me back within seconds. She looked at the suit in my hands.
“Oh, Richard. That’s perfect. Put it on now so we can go.”
“You want me to change right here?” She shrugged.
“Sure, why not? I won’t look, I promise.” She turned around. I took off my coat and began to put on the suit. Celestia was giggling like a schoolgirl the entire time.
“Ok, I’m good.” Celestia looked at me up and down.
“You look good, Richard. The party is in an hour. I know I had you get it together a bit early but whatever. Come on; help me set up the room.” She led me down a few hallways until we were at the grand ballroom; servants were already there setting up chairs and tables. She began to tell the workers were things were going and what to place on certain tables. I stood around, acting cool as usual. It didn’t seem like long however until guests began to show up. Celestia and I greeted them together; I couldn’t tell who they were gladder to meet, her or I.
“Let’s go sit, Richard.” Celestia said to me when the last of the guests had entered. We sat the table closest to the dance floor. Celestia motioned to it as we passed. ‘It’s like prom night’ I thought to myself. As we sat the four others at the table greeted themselves once more to Celestia. They were dignitaries or something, I didn’t pay close attention. Celestia and the guests were chatting about some political thing.
I looked to see if I knew anyone from the tables around us. I could see Luna at a nearby table. Her hair like the midnight sky worked brilliantly with her somber dress. I guessed she and Celestia were over what had happened years ago. I felt someone tugging at my sleeve; it was Celestia.
“What’s going on?” I asked her.
“It’s time to dance.” She told me. I stopped her from getting up quickly.
“Celestia, I’ve got to say something. I can’t dance.” She rolled her eyes.
“Follow my lead, Richard.” She got up and dragged me to the dance floor. A band was playing classical music. Many of the couples who had come to the party were dancing and having a good time. It all looked so complicated. Celestia turned to face me, she placed on of my hands at her hips; the other she held and began to sway with the rhythm. I began to sway with her. Some of the other guests looked at us with a small laugh. I guess it was something to see; Celestia dancing awkwardly with someone like me.
The band began to play a slower song; Celestia pulled me in closer, putting my other hand on her hips. She placed her hands behind me; holding me tightly she laid her head on my shoulder. It seemed like no time had passed when the band stopped playing. People came up to thank Celestia for the party.
One person said, “Great party, Princess, but it was rather short notice don’t you think.” She laughed as she said goodbye. Luna came up to us after the last guest had left.
“I saw you two dancing tonight. You were good.” She said.
“Luna, you are too much. Where was your date?” Celestia asked. Luna looked sad.
“Oh, he couldn’t make it. At least Richard was here for you.”
“Yes, that was a relief indeed.” She kept one of my hands at her side. “We’re going to go to bed now, Luna. Good night.” She led me up to her bedroom, motioning towards her bed.
“Did you forget I’m married?” I asked her.
“No, my dear. I just thought that you could continue being my plus one. Isn’t that ok?” Somewhere inside of me, I was happy to be her plus one. I couldn’t refuse.
“I guess its ok, for tonight.” I began to take off my suit; she watched every second. When I was done she began to slip off her dress slowly. She was beautiful, gorgeous really. We both got into her bed. She turned to me and draped her arms across my middle; her head resting on my chest. I thought to myself that maybe this dream wasn’t so bad after all. Slowly I drifted off to sleep.
Chapter VII
I woke up to a feeling of disgust and still human. How could I have let myself sleep in Celestia’s bed and why won’t this dream end? I got out of the bed, no regard for her sleeping next to me. My brash movements woke her up.
She spoke, “What’s the matter, Richard?”
“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have done this. It’s not right.” I told her. She looked hurt.
“It’s ok, Richard. Twilight wouldn’t care.” That hit me the wrong way.
“She would care. She would always care for me, as I do for her. I need to see her today. In fact, can you send me there now?”
“If that’s what you really want, Richard; I’ll send you there now.” I got dressed and nodded at her. She began to move her hands in a complex motion. With a flash of light, I was back in my home. I looked up to the bedroom for Twilight, she wasn’t there. How could she not be there? I went outside to try and find any of our friends. I checked Rarity’s boutique, it was empty. So was Fluttershy’s house, and Applejack’s farm. I even checked the school for Cheerilee and her class, the schoolhouse was empty. The town was deserted. I went back to the library, trying to find a book that might help me here. I wished I read more of the books she’d suggested now.
None of the books I saw looked like they’d help me here, and if they did I probably wouldn’t understand them anyway. I could feel the pull of Celestia’s magic taking me back to Canterlot, and with a flash of light, I was there again. We weren’t in her bedroom, but at the dining hall for breakfast. A plate of bacon and toast sat before me. A glass of familiar wine accompanying it.
“Don’t you think it’s a bit early for drinking?” I asked Celestia.
“Oh, Richard. Don’t worry about, I won’t tell anyone.” She rested her head on her hands as I ate. Her eyes didn’t leave me once. With great trepidation I drank the wine; it’s sweetness intoxicating all by itself.
“Well, I’d hate to be drunk for detective work. I better go now.” She seemed surprised.
“Oh yes, that stuff. Good luck, Richard.” I made my leave of the castle. I could still remember the way to the informant in the slums. Without Herald I could do what I needed to do to find this Mad Max. I was still thinking about Celestia when I reached the building where the informant was. Everything was in place as it was yesterday. I went to the teller’s window. A different voice came out this time.
“Hello, can I help you?”
“I need to know about Mad Max. Where can I find him?” There was the sound of shuffling paper behind the wall.
“Well, that information is very… special. Are you special enough to hear it?” I handed a few bits through the window. “I’m afraid this is a little more special than that.” More bits. “Yes, it appears Mad Max has been making claims that he and his crew can steal anything, and it appears they can.”
“Where can I find him?” I inquired.
“Ah, I’m afraid I can’t help you there. It seems he’s been off the radar for some time now. No one knows where he is.” I thanked the informant and walked out of the building. How did no one know where he was? It had to mean something.
‘If I stole a one of a kind crown, where would I go?’ I would lie low for a while until I could sell it off. Where could he be lying low? I doubt he would stay in Canterlot with all the guards about on high alert. Perhaps he would go to Manehattan, which was a less controlled area. In the alleyway behind me I could hear a door opening. I turned to see someone exiting the informants building and fast walking down the alley. I started to follow him. He must have heard me because he broke out into a run. I started to run after him. I was faster than he and was soon close enough to tackle him to the ground. He cried out as he hit the ground.
“Don’t hurt me!” He yelled out.
“I’m not going to hurt you if you answer my questions. Who are you?”
“I’m no one. Let me go!” I slammed my elbow into his back. “I’m just the guy who collects information. Let me go!”
“I need to know about Mad Max! Where is he?” He didn’t say anything. I hit him once more.
“I can’t tell you, he’ll kill me!
“I’ll kill you if you don’t tell me.” Guards passing the alley saw us and began to head down the alley. “Tell me now!”
“He’s at the train depot. Please let me go!” I got off him as the guards arrived.
“What’s going on?” one of them asked.
“Nothing.” I told him. I began to walk away. One of the guards grabbed my arms and turned me around.
“You aren’t going anywhere yet. What happened?” The guard asked the informant. He looked at me, his face was bleeding.
“He tackled me and demanded my money. He’s a thief.” The guard tried to put handcuffs on me but I slipped out of his grasp and punched him in the face. He fell down, knocked out. The two other guards lunged to grab me; I ducked under their hands and started to run to the streets. I didn’t get far as the informant tripped me. I fell face first on the cobblestone. I felt handcuffs being placed on me as I slipped into unconsciousness.
Chapter VIII
I woke up in a familiar place, the royal dungeons. I didn’t know exactly where I was, but it probably wasn’t too far in. I hoped the guards would be here soon to let me out. I was about to bang on the bars, but I no longer had hands, it was back to hooves. I must be a pony again, I thought. My hooves banged on the bars. It was then that I realized something terrible. What had been happening to me last night was no dream; it had been reality. I stopped banging on the bars.
How could I have been human in Equestria? Maybe it was just my imagination in overdrive, but that dinner, with actual meat? I didn’t know what to think. A door opened at the end of the hallway. Celestia flanked by two incredibly sorry looking guards came walking down.
“Why is he in here?” Celestia demanded as they reached my cell.
The guard stuttered out, “He was declared a thief…”
“Get him out.” She grumbled. The silent guard fumbled with the key and opened the door. “Follow me, Richard.” I followed Celestia out of the dungeon. She led me into some side room. It contained rows of books.
“Now, Richard. Why were you being called a thief? What have you done?” She and all the ponies we passed were back to… well… ponies.
“I was looking for Mad Max, and I had to tackle some guy. He told the guards that I was after his money. It’s nothing.” She scowled.
“I can’t have you being called a thief!”
“Because I’m a knight? I doubt a little thing like this will smear my reputation.” Her eyes starting shifting.
“Yes, that’s right.” She stopped for a second to pace the room, “What did you learn?”
“I heard that he was in the train depot. I’m going it out tomorrow.” Celestia noted a confused look on my face.
“What’s the matter, Richard?”
“Something strange happened to me recently. Sometimes I have dreams where ponies weren’t ponies at all, but something different, and recently I was seeing things that even you and I weren’t ponies. It was incredibly strange.” She frowned slightly.
“That’s peculiar, Richard. I hope it doesn’t affect you too much. It’s nearly dinner time, come with me to eat.”
“Alright, Celestia.” We walked to the dining hall where our places were already being set. Two glasses of wine and plates of fruit and breads with cheese sat there. Celestia and I sat down. I tasted the wine; the same sweet taste was there with the bitter aftertaste.
“Don’t you have any different wines?” I asked Celestia.
“I’m afraid that this is my favorite wine. Don’t you like it, my dear?” She hadn’t called me ‘my dear’ for a long time. That was kind of weird. I took another sip of wine.
“It’s good, but it leaves a strange taste in my mouth.”
“Yes, I’ve noticed that. I’m asking them vineyard if they have something similar, but we won’t know for a bit.” Dinner passed by uneventfully after that; Celestia and I saying few words.
“I think I might do some reading before I go to bed.” Celestia perked up.
“I’ve got a wonderful selection of books in my room if you care to look.”
“I think I’m good. I’ve got a book that Twilight gave me before I left.” Celestia bit her lip.
“Ok, Richard. Goodnight then.”
I looked at the book Twilight gave me, The Mysteries of Equestria. Twilight knows what I like, mysteries. I wondered if I would be able to solve them from reading alone. I opened the cover, there appeared to be handwriting. On closer inspection it read,
“Dear, Richard,
I don’t know when you’ll receive this note, but I’m sorry. I couldn’t make it work. Please don’t try and find me again. I’m sorry.
With all my heart,
Twilight Sparkle”
Chapter IX
I had to get home, now. I ran out the room and the castle, making my way to the train station. I didn’t stop running at any point. The station was mostly empty now, only a few more trains would be arriving tonight. There was one pony working the ticket booth. I walked over and demanded a ticket for Ponyville. The worker got nervous when he looked up and saw me.
“Oh, sir, it appears we are sold out of tickets for Ponyville. Terribly sorry.” That got me mad.
“It’s empty here. You can’t tell me you’re full on that train. I demand a ticket.”
“I’m sorry, but there are no more tickets.”
“Do you know who I am? I am here on royal business.” He licked his lips, sweating lightly.
“Sir, there are no more tickets. Please go.” He reached for a button to close the window.
“You can’t get rid of me that easily! I want a damn ticket!” The few ponies in the station started looking at me. I must have been quite the show.
“I’m sorry.” He closed the window. I threw my hoof at it in anger. The window did not break or even crack; that made my anger worse. I settled in a seat near the Ponyville track, I was going to get on that train.
It took nearly an hour for the train to arrive. Ponies began to line up for the train, getting tickets punched and entering. I walked the length of it, looking for an unguarded door. I found one at the end, I quickly jumped in and found a seat. Soon enough the train was on its way. I noticed the many seats empty on the train. I would reach Ponyville within the hour. I couldn’t stop looking at the note in the book. It didn’t make any sense, she had seemed to happy when I was there up until I left. Was she happy that I was leaving? I had to ask her, it was the only way to know.
I arrived at the station ready to find some answers. It wouldn’t take me long to get home, but it wouldn’t be soon enough. It was near ten when I arrived at the library. I knocked on the door, hoping Twilight was there this time. I could hear footsteps near the door, the door opened. I saw Twilight’s face; I couldn’t read its emotions.
“Twilight, what happened?” I asked her.
“What do you mean?” She said blankly.
“The note you gave me. You said we were through.” She looked taken aback.
“I don’t remember a note like that. What are you talking about?”
“You said you couldn’t make it work anymore. What happened between us?” She didn’t say anything for what seemed like hours.
“I don’t know what you’re talking about, Richard. Are you ok? Is Celestia getting too much for you?”
“Everything is fine. So you’re not leaving me?” She shook her head.
“Of course not, silly. I love you.” She came up to me and kissed me, smiling as she pulled back her head. “Richard, is that the reason you came here? Do you want to stay the night or do you have to head back?” I sighed heavily.
“I’ve got to head back, Twilight. I can’t stay, I’m so sorry.” She nodded, understanding somepony who liked working.
The train ride back was uneventful; it wasn’t until I got back to the Canterlot station that things heated up. I immediately headed to the ticket booth; the same pony was working it.
“Excuse me; I’d like to know why you didn’t have any tickets.” He let out an audible squeak when he saw me again.
“Sir, the train was full. I couldn’t get any more ponies in.” I put my hoof to my chin.
“Hmm, is that so? Well I was on that train and it was awfully empty. I think you need to look over your books better.”
“H-how did you get on the train?”
“Well, you know me. I just kind of show up to things.” I told him. He was shaking terribly. He must be getting in huge trouble for this. “I’d like to know why I wasn’t allowed on the train.”
“I was told you weren’t to board the trains. Somepony told me that.” Who wouldn’t want me on the trains… there could be only one answer, Mad Max. He was scared I would find him, and now I would. I left that station, taking a long walk back to the castle. It was hard for me to not go after Max even now. It should wait until morning, when I would have all the energy I needed.
One of the servants saw me walking through the halls of the castle to my room.
“Would you like a nightcap before bed, sir? There is wine in your room.” That was just what I needed to get to sleep. The ups and downs I had within the last few hours had shaken me greatly.
The wine appeared to be Celestia’s favorite. It appeared as though this drink was never going away. Nevertheless I poured myself a glass and drank it. The bitter aftertaste was much less defined this time, maybe I was getting used to it. I had a second glass; the taste was nearly gone now. I decided that that should mean it was time for bed. I took off my hat and laid in bed. The day’s events flashed by my head as I slowly drifted into sleep.
Chapter X
I awoke to an uncommon scenario; I was once again human. This was getting stranger and stranger by the day. I got out of bed and headed down towards the dining hall, determined to find Max today. Celestia was waiting for me at the table as always.
“I heard you left in quite the rush last night, Richard. Where were you off to?” She asked me as I sat down. She passed me a glass of wine.
“I found a note in my book from Twilight; it said she was leaving me.” Celestia showed a big frown and hugged me.
“It’s ok, Richard. Something’s aren’t meant to be.” Celestia said sorrowfully.
“You didn’t let me finish. I took a train down to Ponyville and it turns out she didn’t write that note at all.” Celestia’s face turned into confusion. “Can you believe that? Even the ticket master didn’t want to give me a ticket so I had to sneak onto the train. I think Max is trying to keep me away from him.”
“Yes, that must be true.” Celestia said, sorrow wiped from her voice. “Onto much brighter news, Richard, the vineyard sent new wine and it has arrived. We can try it tonight.” I gave her a strange look.
“Actually I think I may have this cased wrapped up before then, I will probably be heading home today.” She dropped her glass on the floor, it shattered.
“Oh, yes. Well good luck to you, Richard.” She stood up and walked out of the room. Servants began to clean up the glass and wipe away the wine. It was then that I took my leave; it was time to deal with Mad Max. It wouldn’t take me long to get to the train depot. I was pretty sure that it was right behind the station.
I arrived at the station a little before noon. It took a longer time to get here because of the days shoppers. As I approached the station’s door a set of guards stopped me.
“You are not allowed to enter.” One said to me. The two guards held spears which they gripped tightly.
“Why not?” I asked him.
“You have shown criminal behavior and may not enter the train station.” His demeanor was always controlled.
“I need to get in there. I don’t even want to board a train.”
He said, unrelenting, “You are not allowed in the station. Do not make us force you away.” The other guard raised his spear and I backed off, not wanting trouble. I would have to talk with Celestia about this.
My hands rapped on her door. The servants told me she would be in her room.
“Just a minute.” I heard from a voice inside. It was Celestia’s, but more like she was singing. I knocked harder, hoping for some haste. Again her voice echoed through the door, asking for just one moment. Her voice helped to calm me, slightly. I could hear the lock sliding back on the door; I readied myself to ask her a question until I saw what waited behind the door. Celestia was completely naked.
I averted my eyes immediately. Seeing that made it hard to think about why I came in the first place. I tried to ask my question.
“I, uh, came here to ask you… something.” She grabbed my hand.
“Here. Come in and sit down.” She led me to and sat me down on her bed. She sat right next to me; she was practically in my lap. “Now what was it you wanted?”
I began to mumble something out, “I, uh, came here, err, for…” The words lost themselves as she placed her hand on my thigh. Her warm touch wiped thoughts from my head. “I needed…” With her other hand she turned my head to face her. She slowly placed herself on me for a passionate kiss. With that all but one thought was rushed from my head. A tiny little sparkle… of Twilight.
The thought of Twilight caused clarity to come to me. I pushed Celestia away, realizing what was going on for the first time. I jumped off the bed and turned to face her.
“I-I can’t do this!” I shouted. Celestia covered herself with her blanket.
“Richard, what’s the matter? Are you ok?” Celestia tried to grab my hand but I pulled it away.
“Celestia, you know I’m married.” She stood up too, her body looking magnificent in the sunlight of her room. I could feel myself getting lost in the thoughts of her body; I snapped myself out of it. I kept my eyes to hers.
“Richard…”
“Celestia, they won’t let me in the train station. I have to get in there.” She walked next to me, embracing me.
“Why, Richard? Why do you have to get in there?” Harder and harder to concentrate; I had to keep thinking of Twilight.
“I’ve got to find Max and the crown.” She held me yet closer.
“I’ll have guards get the crown, Richard. You stay here with me; you’ve done enough. Don’t you think?” With every word the temptation grew stronger.
“Celestia, I-” She pushed my head into her shoulder so I couldn’t speak. She began to sing some sort of lullaby. The dulcet tones and words caused me to lose my head. I fell into an emotional bliss.
Chapter XI
I was in Celestia’s bed when I woke up. She was hanging onto my body. I tried to pick her off me but to no avail, neither did she wake up. On one of her tables sat several different bottles with several wine glasses; we must have had quite the party. Finally she turned and rolled off me so I could get up. I got off the bed gingerly so she wouldn’t wake up. I put on a pair of pants that were lying on floor.
I went to the bottles on the table; all of them were empty. They appeared to be from the same maker, must be that vineyard Celestia raves about. The smell was old; they weren’t recently drank. I carefully crept outside the bedroom door. By looking at the sun I guessed it to be around noon. Walking around the castle I saw servants see me and panic. I must have done something crazy, I thought bemusedly to myself. Finally I was at the castle gates; it was time to get back to Ponyville.
Two guards stopped me at the gates. I recognized one; he was the one who had apologized for bringing me to Bastion’s torture room.
“I know you, but I don’t know your name. What is it?” I asked him. He seemed to recognize me too.
“It’s Steel, sir. Steel Arm. I’m sorry but we have orders not to let you out without Celestia.” That was a strange order.
“What do you mean without Celestia? Is she my mother now?” I started to laugh a little. The guards held stony faces.
“Celestia is your wife, sir. You are the prince of the land.” I put my hands on both of their shoulders; luckily they were standing side by side.
“Gentlemen please.” I slammed their heads together quickly; the force made them dizzy. They were out long enough for me to run out of there really fast. A few of the guards began to give chase, but their heavy armor slowed them down.
There were shouts from behind me, “Stop him!”, “Stop that man!” A few of the citizens made moves to get me, but I dodged them barely. A guard in the crowd lunged at me and threw me to the ground.
“Let me go!” I growled at him. He punched my jaw; I could nearly feel the bone break. I jabbed his abdomen. He threw another fist to my jaw, but I moved my head his fist hit the cobblestone. In pain he let go on me and I slipped out from under him. I wasn’t even able to get up before the other guards caught up with me. They surrounded me while the other guard got up.
“Why are you doing this? Let me go home, please.” They tightened the circle around me. Passers-by were looking at this spectacle.
One of the guards spoke up, “We are taking you home, sir.” Under his breath he muttered, “Senile fool.” One from behind me grabbed my arms; the rest took the cue to grab my legs. They carried the struggling me back to the castle. I saw Steel Arm as we entered the gates. Our eyes met briefly before he quickly jerked his vision away. They brought me to the dining hall where Celestia was sitting, sipping from a tea cup. Something about her appearance was diminished; her normally radiant beauty was less than that. They had me kneel on the ground in front of her.
Glaring at me she said, “Where were you, Richard? You weren’t in bed when I woke up.”
“I wanted to see home.”
“You are home, Richard. You are at home with your wife.” I looked into her eyes.
“You are not my wife… Twilight is.” She threw the teacup at me, it missed by an inch. She stood up and strode towards me. Standing in front of me she grabbed my hair, twisting my head to look at her.
“Richard, I forbade you from saying that name in this castle. Don’t you want to be a good husband?”
“I’m not your husband. I-” She slapped my face hard.
“Richard, stop this little rebellion. Don’t you love your wife?” My face stung from the impact of her hand.
“I don’t love you… I love my wife, Twilight.” Another hard slap to the face.
“When’s the last time you had a drink, darling? Was it last night? Answer me.” I racked my brain, nothing came up.
“We didn’t drink last night. Last I remember you told me not to worry about the crown and… that’s it.” She sighed.
“You and that crown of yours. Someone get him something to drink.” A servant soon appeared with a wine glass. Celestia glared at me. “Drink it, honey.” I picked up the glass; it was full of the same wine she always drank.
“I don’t want it. I never liked this wine!” I threw the glass to the ground and shook my head free from her grasp. I stood tall. “I’m going home.” Before I could turn away she raised her arm and made a small gesture. An invisible force pushed me to the wall; the wind was knocked from my lungs. Celestia flew to me, the guards running after her. She put her hand to my throat, almost choking me.
“You listen well, Richard. You will LOVE me! Take him to the dungeons!” The guards dragged me off to a familiar cell; the same one Bastion put me on all those years ago.
It took two days until Celestia showed up at the cell. They had given me only the wine and bread to eat; I neither ate nor drank. Celestia had a look of intense disapproval when she saw the trays pushed to one corner. The second day marked the end of being a human; it was back to a pony for me; I hoped it stuck this time.
“Richard, darling, why don’t you eat or drink? You’ll get sick.” I was nearly out of energy as it was. I couldn’t last another day of this.
“I… just… want… to… go… home.”
“Richard… you aren’t going home. Not ever.” It was the one thing I hadn’t wanted to hear; I broke down in tears.
“Why? Why can’t I go home?” She shook her head.
“I thought you would see this for what it is, Richard. I love you, and you will love me too.”
“Celestia, I can never love you like you want. I love another… Twilight! I want to see her!” Celestia’s magic blasted me to the end of the cell.
“You cannot love her, you will love me! Guards! Give him the drink.” Two guards emerged and brought with them a pitcher of wine. Celestia’s magic held me down as the guards approached. I couldn’t struggle against those bonds. “Do you know what this is, Richard? This is a love potion. I’ve been giving you small doses since you came to Canterlot.” The guards began pouring the wine mixture into my mouth, it was useless to struggle. “I don’t know how you got out of it today, but don’t be afraid. It won’t happen again.” The guards backed away, having emptied the pitcher.
With every passing second Celestia’s beauty began to increase. I couldn’t tear my eyes away. She smiled one of her radiant smiles.
“Do you love me, Richard?” I couldn’t respond fast enough.
“Yes.”
Chapter XII
The days pass by, if it is only days. I notice only Celestia’s immense beauty. I spend the time following her. Sometimes she asks things of me, such as writing letters, or greeting guests. I do those things gladly; I will do anything to please my love. Sometimes I think I saw Luna. There might have been others that I know. At night Celestia brings me to her bed, we make love to each other. Any chance to please her brings great effort on my part.
One day, I had a free thought. It was of a strange little town. Not in Celestia’s glorious castle. I tried to fight that thought; there was nowhere else but the castle. Even if there were… other places; why would I ever want to see them? They would lead me away from my princess. The thought of that town would not stop pestering me; it got in the way of me telling Celestia I loved her during dinner.
“My lovely Celestia, what is beyond the castle walls?” My princess’ eyes shot wide and she turned to me.
“Oh, Richard. There are no such places. You should know that; I’ve told you that a lot.” She began to fidget slightly. “Where did that idea come from?” I looked down at my plate.
“I don’t know. I had this… memory I think. A small little town.” Celestia nodded.
“I think you must have been day dreaming. Of a place for us to have a summer home of course. Here, let me get you some more wine.” I thanked her graciously. Yes, I must have been day dreaming. The wine tasted amazing as it always did. Celestia had the best taste in wine. Even now I could feel the niggling little thought disappear.
It was nirvana being only in love with Celestia. She was a wonderful pony, with a beautiful mane and tail. I would stay awake long after she had gone to bed just looking at her wonderful body. The feeling was intoxicating. A sudden whispering voice came and went, “I used to be in love with another.” I shot up in bed.
“Who’s there?” I asked. The room was dark and empty except for Celestia and I. She looked at me, awoken from my movements.
“Are you ok, honey? Is something wrong?” I laid back in bed.
“Nothing’s wrong, Celestia. I-I love you.” I nuzzled her and she purred in delight. It was hard to fall asleep after that.
“How’s the poor man doing today?” Luna was talking with Celestia. We were having an uncommon breakfast with Luna. Normally it was just Celestia and I; she told me to stay silent.
“Oh, he’s wonderful I’m sure. Being with me makes him the happiest he’s ever been. Isn’t that right, Richard?” She looked at me, expecting a resounding agreement.
“I love it like I love you. A lot.”
She smiled. She did note the slight tune of sadness in my voice.
“Are you ok, Richard?” Asked Celestia.
“He looks kind of pale. Do you let him out?” Asked Luna. Celestia glared at Luna.
“What do you mean out? To the ramparts?” Celestia tried to cover herself.
“Silly, Richard. Those are too dangerous for you, you might fall.”
“But you let me up the tower to our room.” She did let me on the tower, I should have been able to see over the walls then but it always seemed to be too cloudy.
“Silence, Richard. Drink something.” I picked up my glass and took a sip; there was a hint of bitterness.
In a rare moment of freedom, Celestia let me roam the gardens alone. Not truly alone however, as I had an escort of two guards, but alone without her.
“The gardens are beautiful aren’t they?” The guards looked at each other, not sure if they should respond. I looked at them, “Aren’t they?”
“Yes sir, they are.” Said one of them. His voice was familiar. I looked at him directly.
“Do I know you?” I asked the guard.
“I’m not sure, sir.” I chuckled.
“How can you not know? Do you know me?” He looked at his hooves.
“We aren’t supposed to talk. I’m sorry.” The guards said nothing for the rest of the excursion. I wish somepony would talk to me. It was awfully boring talking with Celestia. She never told me much, just asked me about my day and I never had anything to say.
It was late one night as we walked up to the bedroom. Celestia was telling me about what Luna and her were talking about all day. She had left me to wander the castle, with guards of course. I stopped in the patio in front of the door.
“Richard, what are you doing? It’s time for bed.” I looked over the railing, clouds covered the tower.
“Celestia, why is the tower always covered in clouds? Nowhere else is.” Celestia walked next to me, she rested her hoof on my back.
“Richard, I can’t control the weather and the Wonderbolts are far too busy to deal with this.”
“Don’t you have other pegasi who can deal with this then?” I asked her.
“Richard, it’s late and I’m tired of these questions. Let’s just get into bed.” I put my forelegs onto the railing.
“Celestia, why won’t you ever answer my questions? Why can’t I go on my own?” Her face showed slight tinges of anger.
“Richard, not now. We’re not talking about this now.” I turned my head to her, shaking her hoof off my back.
“Then when will we discuss this?! I’m tired of this secrecy. I want to know what’s outside these walls. Let me go outside the walls!”
“You will never get out of this castle, Richard. Now come to the bedroom with me.” She would never understand me. I had to do something to show her. I hoisted myself onto the railing; it was hard to keep balance in the winds.
“Then I can grow some wings, and fly to freedom.” As Celestia turned to see what I was talking about, I jumped. Wind rushed past my head as the clouds cleared. As the pure sunlight hit my eyes I could hear Celestia yelling after me. I could finally see past the walls. There was a huge world outside these walls, stretching in all directions. A small village caught my eye… Ponyville.
Chapter XIII
“Richard. Richard, wake up!” Something cold hit my face. I tried to shake it off but it stuck to me. Gingerly I opened my eyes. Celestia stood above me.
“Celestia, there’s a world outside these walls…” She nodded, tears in her eyes.
“Yes there is, Richard. I’d like you to do something for me. I’d like you to explore that world. Can you do that for me?” My heart soared. All I had wanted to do was explore that world. A singular thought came to my head.
“Can I go to Ponyville? Is that a real place?” She nodded once more.
“You can visit my apprentice, Twilight Sparkle. She’ll give you somewhere to live for now.” Tears streamed down her face.
“That sounds wonderful, Celestia. You’re the best.”
To Be Continued.