//------------------------------// // Night Life / Game Changer // Story: MLDC Next Generation: Love Conquers All! Avarice Takes It All! // by Michael_Ravencroft //------------------------------// Nidra was starting to get closer to Turquoise than she could’ve ever hoped. The dracony stallion was becoming less anxious about Annie’s safety, and that was the general idea, getting T’s mind off of worrying about his fillyfriend and all. But Nidra was enjoying how much time the two of them were spending together. Whether it was just talking while walking about the castle, eating a private meal together, or simply just going out of the palace and heading down the shopping district. She found that T definitely had an eye for fashion, Nidra attributed that to his mother’s influence, and he knew exactly what worked and what didn’t. Nidra had at one point decided to be a little tease and slipped on something that hugged the elegant curves of her body. She almost melted from seeing his embarrassed reaction. Of course, during their outings, Nidra couldn’t help but notice the looks they were getting from the citizenry. They had more than once seen Nidra walking about the streets of the city, but it was usually with a guard accompaniment. But since Turquoise was strong enough and fearsome looking enough to ward off any would be stalkers, robbers, or any other kind of neerdowell. But still, the other ponies still looked skittish and somewhat fearful of seeing a dragon-like pony walking about. Still can’t get over the fact that he’s half-dragon! What’s wrong with these ponies?! “Sorry T,” said Nidra. “Sorry for what?” “Sorry that practically EVERYPONY,” Nidra said loudly, “seems to think you’re dangerous or something.” Turquoise shrugged. “It’s no big deal, I’m kinda used to it. Less in Ponyville since I’ve lived there most my life, but it really doesn’t bother me.” Nidra sighed. “You’re a lot kinder than I am. I’d be infuriated that they couldn’t see beyond what I looked like on the outside! Honestly, I think my title as Princess is the only reason they don’t give me the same looks. But Illusion, oh Faust, there’s no end.” “Really, Illusion gets weird looks too?” T asked. “Well, yeah. I mean, he usually goes out in disguise so nopony knows it’s really him. But the times he does come out in his normal form, you can almost see the contempt behind their eyes. Even being a crowned Prince, they’re afraid because he’s half-draconequus that he’ll end up being like his father, and take over Equestria, plunging it into eternal chaos or some BS like that.” Turquoise had no idea that Illusion was getting that kind of flak from others. He remembered Illusion telling him about why he went out in disguise, and how he pretended to be somepony else in order to find out who his true friends were, but he didn’t know the other side to the story. Now that he did, it was a little sad, and at the same time, he saw how Claire and Illusion got along so well. “Guess we’re lucky, we’ve got friends who don’t care what we look like, and still want to be our friend,” said Turquoise. “Yeah…” Nidra spotted something as they walked, making her ears perk up. “Say T, have you ever been to a club?” “Umm, no not really. Ponyville doesn’t have much of a night life, well, beyond private parties that some folks have going on, but nothing like late night clubs. Why do you ask?” Nidra motioned towards the building on the other side of the street. The two of them stood before the entrance, seeing a sign that read “Grand Opening Tonight, Midnight Bright Club”. “What do you say we both come out tonight and see what the place’s is like?” Nidra asked. Turquoise chuckled nervously. “Well…Nidra, I’m not what you would call the most graceful of dancers. Even when Annie dances I just tend to watch.” Nidra blinked. “Anthea dances?” “Yep, she’s a pretty good dancer too.” Little miss perfect. Wonder if she’s perfect in the sack too?! Okay, really did not need that mental image right now! “C’mon T, just come with me and let’s try it out! For me, please?!” Nidra gave Turquoise her most pouty, puppy dog face she could muster. She knew T was a big softy, and he couldn’t really say no to that face. With a heavy sigh, Turquoise smiled and nodded to Nidra. The thestral began hopping in a circle around Turquoise, continuously repeating “yes, yes, yes,” over and over again as she did so. Wonder if Aunt Twilight’s rubbed off on her? Saddle Arabian Gate, night time A couple of days had passed since the attack on the Avalon, and everypony onboard was feeling tense from the lack of assault. Not they complained, it afforded them time to repair the downed airship, but the fear of being attacked at any minute, any moment, made it hard to relax. For the minotaurs it kept them on edge, they enjoyed this feeling, the tension while their enemy planned and readied for another battle. Annie was still receiving instruction in the art of spear fighting, apparently getting better at it from what Prince Steel told her. Amber, Hot Head, and Lucky would still train with her, helping the formerly blind mare to hone her abilities and control over the violet ring of Love. She had to admit, the ring was becoming more in tuned with her as the days went by, needing little more than a couple of seconds before the constructs formed. Annie had to admit, she was missing T a lot, and from time to time she’d create a construct of the dracony stallion, using a spell to wrap around the construct to make it look exactly like him. It helped ease her heartache of being separated from her lover for so long, trapped in canyon, surrounded by enemies, and with the high walls, made communication impossible. Even now, under the serene night sky, Annie’s mind was still thinking about him. She had asked the Princess about the constellation Draco, and wondered if it was visible in this region. As luck would have it, they were in the right spot for it. Annie memorized the pattern and went to the top of the Avalon to view this constellation. It didn’t take her long to find the winding form of the star dragon, Draco. Annie was told by T a long time ago, a story apparently passed down from elder to hatchling amongst the dragon race, about the constellation. According to the dragon philosophy, ponies and dragons used to live side by side with each other many years ago, before the founding of Equestria. “The oldest of the dragons took pity on the ponies and sought to help them in the building of their nation. So he gathered them together and made them vow that they’d watch over the pony race, always. And upon the eldest’s death, the night became alive, and the constellation “Draco” was formed, the ‘Dragon’s Heaven’”. But not all were permitted to this wonderful place, for to gain entry, they must prove they are indeed worthy, and earn their place in the lofty heavens. And what was sad, was that if one wasn’t, their soul would vanish, and lost as if never existing at all. In so doing, although it has long been out of practice and lost to the ravages of time. The dragons sought to merge their hearts with those of ponies, connecting their races on a deeper level than ever was possible. Unfortunately, over the centuries, the dragon race grew arrogant and gave up any intentions about helping them or befriending them ever again. Some dragons still look to the heavens and see Draco, believing in the old stories and pondering on how best to earn their place till this very day…”   It made Annie wonder about Turquoise. He was certainly a kind and caring stallion, but did that mean anything to the Draco? Did it grant access to that place? And what of Claire and Mr. Spike? Certainly, being raised by ponies, and falling in love with one has to mean something, Claire and Turquoise were the first of their kind in over, Celestia knows how long! It pretty much bridged the gap between dragon and pony. Then again, Turquoise didn’t tend to do too much. It was always a fear of Annie’s, if she died or that T would be like the Princesses and continue to live on. Dragons had very long life spans, and Annie didn’t doubt that T would outlive her, Claire was lucky, she fell in love with Prince Illusion, being born of an immortal sun goddess and spirit of chaos, there was no way that wouldn’t outlive many ponies. But T…T would be all alone when she died, and what’s more, he didn’t seem to have much of an ambition in life. Annie didn’t want to say anything, but with the war and everything that’s happened, it’s made her rethink her priorities when it came to her coltfriend’s well-being. Turquoise had always been a helper, helped his parents, Claire, their friends, herself, practically being a jack of all trades. But she wanted more for him than to be a helper all his life, Annie wanted him to find something that he was good at, a special talent all his own. “Thinking about T?” Annie was snapped out of her reverie, turning her head to see Lucky Star approaching her. “Oh hey Lucky…is it that obvious?” “Kind of, yeah, but it’s only natural to miss somepony you care about. Especially when you have as strong bond of love like you two do,” said Lucky. “Thanks Lucky.” Purple stallion laid next to Annie, both looking up into the night sky, to the crescent moon that hung overhead as well as the billions of stars. Annie glanced to Lucky, she frowned slightly, something that the unicorn stallion didn’t miss. “Annie what’s wrong?” “Lucky…does…does it bother you, seeing me and Turquoise together?” Lucky looked confused at hearing that. “Well, that’s out of the blue. But I guess…at first it did, since well, he’s half-dragon and it really worried us when you first introduced us to him. But after getting to know him better, I’m alright with it. Hot Head’s still getting used to it, guy still thinks T’s going to turn rabid or something down the line and hurt you.” Annie sighed. “I’ll remember to talk to him about that, but that’s not what I meant. I’m sorry Lucky but…my ring, it senses love, all kinds. Even unrequited love.” Lucky was still confused, but only for a brief moment before his cheeks went red and he turned his gaze out towards the sea of star sapphire crystals. “I didn’t mean to, Lucky, I’m really sorry! It just happens, the ring senses it, and it kind of lets me know what kind of love another pony’s feeling! But, during the times I’ve been around you, I’ve felt that sensation, and it grew stronger whenever you were around me. Lucky, how long?” The unicorn stallion was slow to answer, but with a reluctant sigh, he spoke. “Honestly? For a while now, like, back when we were in the orphanage and since then.” Annie’s eyes grew wide. “Lucky, why didn’t you tell me?!” “Because I…” Lucky cut himself off, trying to collect his thoughts before speaking. “Because I didn’t think it was the right time.” “‘Right time’?” “When all four of us were in the orphanage, we weren’t just random kids huddling together, we were each other’s family. A brother, a little sister, a big sister. I didn’t want to mess that up by suddenly spilling that I had a crush on you! And when you got adopted, I knew that I couldn’t, because I didn’t want you to say that you couldn’t go leaving me behind.” To some, that may sound selfish and corny. But Annie knew that she would have. As faithful as she was to T, she would’ve no doubt been the same way to Lucky, not wanting to leave her love’s side while he stayed behind. “You have a good life with Miss Fluttershy, and I always hoped that maybe one day I’d get to tell you. But…when you said you were going to introduce us to your coltfriend, it kind of shattered all that.” Annie’s head lowered, her gaze downcast. “I’m sorry…” “Don’t be. You’re happy with Turquoise, right?” “Yes, but…I feel like I cheated you out of a chance or something, or that you cheated yourself! I must really be blind if I couldn’t pick up on your feelings…” Annie lamented. Lucky reached out with his right hoof, placing the tip under Annie’s chin and lifting it up gently as she turned to look at him. “In truth, I would’ve been surprised if you had. Because I was doing my best so that you didn’t notice. But that’s a moot point. You’re with the pony you love, and me, well, I’ll find somepony else. Just know that…that there’s somepony out there that does care about you a lot.” Annie felt a pang in her heart. “Well…I know it may not be much, but…do you want to come closer to me? At least you can say you spent the night gazing at the stars, with the pony you care about most.” Lucky blushed but smiled nonetheless. Annie shuffled closer to Lucky, resting her side against his armor plated side. Annie frowned at the feel of the cold metal. She then used her magic to levitate the metal up off him and set it to the vacant left side. Annie scooted closer, pressing her left side to his right, making their coats mingle together. “That’s better,” said Annie. “Y-Yeah, a-a lot better!” Lucky stammered. Annie giggled at the flustered look on his face. She may not be able to return his feelings, but this night, this moment, she could at least give him that much. For one of her closest friends, for somepony she saw as a cool older brother, this much she could do. Late night, back in Canterlot… “Nidra are you sure about this? We could get in a lot of trouble if we get caught,” whispered Turquoise. “Relax T, I’ve snuck out of the palace hundreds of times,” said Nidra. “Yeah, you alone is easy, but you didn’t have a green scaled, behemoth of a dracony following you those times!” “We won’t get caught T, I promise.” Nidra and Turquoise were currently trying to get off the castle grounds. Nidra decided that flying would be the best option for them, luckily the moon was in its waning crescent stage, and the light that emanated from it was lessened. The alicorn thestral mare concluded that a departure from the right side of the castle would be best; far enough away from the lights so as to not be seen, and just within the castle’s shadow to provide them cover. Nidra was aware that T, while a strong flyer, was not very agile in the air unlike herself. So she figured this was the best way for both of them to get out. Turquoise was antsy about leaving the castle without permission from Nidra’s mother or any of the other royals. The fact that Nidra did this all the time kind of worried him, Nidra was a Princess of Equestria, even though Canterlot was a safe city, it wasn’t unknown to the criminal element. What was to stop some random mugger or assassin from trying to kill or foalnap her?! But that could wait for later, right now, Turquoise had to focus on the task at hoof, which was making it to the exit and taking off from there. Nidra held the lead, while T’s draconic eyes were great at seeing in the dark, the Princess of Slumber’s eyes were even better, being the daughter of Luna and a thestral. Everything was a bright to her as if it were daylight, even the most minute of details was made known before he gaze. Her ears twitched here and there, listening for the clanking clatter of Royal Guard armor, or the soft thudding of their hoofsteps. Nidra had to stop them several times when she heard them, only moving when they receded a safe distance. After about thirty minutes of sneaking around the palace, Nidra and Turquoise made it to the exit. They spread their wings and took off post haste, taking to the night sky. The two bat winged ponies flew carefully, no sudden movements or change in direction, they wanted to appear as nothing more than a couple of bats flying in the sky to anypony who looked up. Thankfully they weren’t spotted, having gotten near one of the taller buildings in the main part of Canterlot. Nidra guided Turquoise to a spot in an alleyway, landing softly inside while Turquoise landed with a great thud of his clawed hooves. “Told you we’d make it out,” said Nidra with pride. “Yeah…but still, it’s dangerous for you to be out like this.” “T, please, as much as I love the nightlife, I’m far more cautious than you think. Observe…” Nidra sparked her horn, letting it flare up for a moment and then flash. Turquoise averted his eyes from the brief change in lighting. When it was over, instead of an alicorn thestral standing before him, a gray pegasus mare was there, with a cobalt blue mane and intimidating eyes. Turquoise immediately recognized this form as Jet Stream, Nidra’s disguised form whenever she wanted to go somewhere and not be heckled by the citizens wanting to meet a Princess. “Illusion taught me how to use his glamour spell, now I don’t have to go to him whenever I want to go out as Jet Stream! It’s a variation of his spell that uses less magic so I don’t have to worry about using up my own to maintain it!” “Oh, well now that makes more sense. Still, Canterlot can’t be that safe at night, despite the presence of the Royal Guard.” “In that case…” Jet Stream strode up right beside Turquoise, pressing her side close to his. “Guess you’d better act as my coltfriend while we’re out!” Turquoise blushed. “C-C-Coltfriend?!” “C’mon, it’s just pretend. Nopony will want to try and make a pass at me or hurt me when they see I’m with a big, strong, fearsome, and handsome, dracony like yourself, T.” That smoldering look in Jet Stream’s eyes didn’t help to make this any less awkward. She had a point though, whenever T was with Annie, guys tended to keep away from her like the plague. Afraid of angering her half-dragon coltfriend and getting themselves burned alive. In Ponyville it wasn’t that bad, and they hardly went out at night there, but there wasn’t much to worry about at night around there. But in Canterlot, who knew what was lurking in the shadows, muggers, con-ponies, and some of the more unsavory lot that would take a mare and…Turquoise shook his head, not wanting to imagine stuff like that happening to Nidra. “Alright, just…stay close.” Jet Stream pressed closer to T. “No problem. From here, I think the club is down that way.” “O-Okay!” Turquoise and Jet Stream exited the alley and headed up the sidewalk. She couldn’t help but find the nervousness in his voice cute, this was the first time he no doubt had another mare this close to him other than Annie. But after the first couple of blocks Jet Stream noticed him visibly loosening up and growing more comfortable with her by his side. “Hey Ni – uh – Jet Stream?” “Yes?” “Do you mind if I…put my wing over you? It’s just that I’m kind of used to doing that with Annie and all, so it just feels weird that I’m not…it’s okay if you don’t want me too.” Jet Stream vehemently shook her head. “N-No, not at all! Go ahead, I don’t mind…” The gray pegasus mare moved back a bit, allowing Turquoise to stretch out his right wing. She came closer to T and allowed him to drape his large dragon wing over her back, bringing her left wing pressed up against the side of his barrel. Jet Stream was practically glowing red right now, never did she ever think she’d be like this with Turquoise. For a long while now she had wondered what it would be like to be embraced and covered by his wing like she had seen Annie, and now it finally happened.   The two pretend lovers walked for about another block before the night club came into view. There was a bouncer out at the front, watching the different ponies exit and enter the establishment. At Jet Stream’s behest the two of them walked over to the club entrance. The bouncer eyed the two of them, T especially. Turquoise just grinned nonchalantly and Jet Stream did the same, trying to give off the aura of a happy couple. If the bouncer suspecting anything he didn’t show it, he merely nodded his head towards the door, silently telling them to go on in. Once inside the real fun began. The music was loud, thumping and reverberating within their eardrums and in their chests. Young mares and stallions were out on the dance floor, which was made up of light up tiles that went off in random sequence and colors. Strobe lights swiveled around, flashing and beaming their different array of colors. Some of the ponies were sitting at booths and tables, just talking or enjoying a drink from the bar. At one point T and Jet Stream saw a booth with a couple making out, they turned away, their faces blushing hard. But they were now treated to the sight of a mare couple doing the same on the nearby wall, one of them pinned up against said wall. They settled for just staring at the floor, unless of course the floor was see-through and there was another couple making out under them. Thankfully there wasn’t. The DJ up on the center stage was busy bobbing in his head to the beat of the music, using his hooves and magic to work the turntables and various knobs and switches to get the best sound from the music. Turquoise had to admit, he’d never been to a place like this, heard about them, but never been to one. It was cool. Jet Stream absentmindedly moved a lock of her mane from her face and looked up at Turquoise.       “So…T, do you want to dance?”  Jet Stream asked. “Oh, uh, probably not the best of things for me to do. Like I said I’d prefer to watch.” Jet Stream had a pensive expression, she really wanted to dance with Turquoise, but the beat of the music was too swaying, too addicting not to want and join in. “Jet Stream, if you want to go and dance go on ahead,” said Turquoise. “But T…” Turquoise nudged the mare forward with his wing. “Go on.” Jet Stream looked between the dance floor and Turquoise, with a reluctant grunt she conceded to him. “Fine, but before this night’s over T you’re dancing with me!” Turquoise shook his head, accepting her ultimatum. Jet Stream, not walked, but sauntered over to the dance floor. Her hips swayed back and forth tantalizingly, giving Turquoise a show as she went to the dance floor. You know you lost your shot at dancing with him, right? No I haven’t, I’m going to give T a show. Ooooh, a little teasing, showing off your dance moves and getting his attention. I like it! Not that I care about your opinion, but I’m glad you approve. The DJ ended the song and started up a new one. Jet Stream made her way to the center of the floor, the other dancers parting to make way for her. She tapped her hoof to the beat, finding the rhythm of the music and her timing. Once she had both, Jet Stream began her dance. T found a vacant table and sat on the cushion. When he looked out into the dancefloor his jaw dropped. Jet Stream – or rather Nidra – was on fire! The other dancers made a circle around her, captivated by her wild, and yet, graceful movements. Her mane jerked back and forth, going the opposite way of wherever her head was going. Her wings flared out, aiding her balance as she moved to her hind legs, using the avian appendages as fans to cover her all but her eyes, giving Jet Stream a seductive intensity that was enough to turn the heads of the stallions and mares in the room. Her tail twirled around whenever she did a spin, becoming a blue streak from the speed of her movements. Turquoise had to admit, this was a lot different from the times he had seen Annie dance. Her blindness hindered her in learning the more modern dances, but that didn’t stop her from “twerking” as it was called. But the way Nidra moved, it was sensual, almost awe inspiring, for a moment he mentally stripped away the facade of the glamour and saw only the alicorn thestral, his mind matching the movements to her bat wings and intense yellow eyes. If she were in her real form, Nidra would no doubt truly be a graceful creature of the night. After a few minutes more of dancing, the music stopped and so did Jet Stream. She had a few beads of sweat but nothing that bothered her, she didn’t like to sweat much, making her distaste for hard labor known to Starburst a while back, but working up a sweat by dancing was a different thing, if anything it made her shimmer and captivate all the better. Why couldn’t Starburst just pursue her dancing more? This is a work out truly worth enjoying, and with our moves we could be the envy of every mare and stallion in Canterlot!  Eyes on the prize, what did T think?! Jet Stream looked towards where T was sitting, noticing that he had his eyes glued to her the whole time. The faux pegasus mare felt a shiver of excitement run up her spine, knowing that Turquoise, the stallion she was in love with, had been watching her dance this whole time was beyond great! Jet Stream played it cool though, she didn’t want to let Turquoise onto just how excited she was, not yet at least. She sauntered towards Turquoise, the crowd parting as she did, all eyes still on her. “You were great out there!” Turquoise exclaimed. “Thank you,” said Jet Stream in a humble tone. “Believe it or not, Star and I used to be in the same dance classes a while back.” “Seriously?” T asked. Jet Stream nodded. “I learned the more classical stuff like she did, ballet, the waltz, and others. But I found my personal style to edge towards more modern types of dances. Star got what she wanted out of the classes, better balance, coordination, and whatnot, and I did as well. But instead I furthered my knowledge whereas Star dabbled back and forth. We actually used to dance with each other from time to time, since I was her partner during the classes.” “Wow,” was all that T could say. “Okay, now it’s your turn!” “Wait what?” “You. Me. Dance. Now!” Jet Stream tugged at Turquoise’s left foreleg, but the futility in her actions was quickly becoming apparent. The hulking mass that was Turquoise refused to budge, she may be half alicorn, but that still didn’t make it any easier trying to move Turquoise, like trying to move a chunk of metal bolted to the floor. “Jet Stream I told you I don’t dance, I’m not very good at it, and after all that, I’ll just embarrass you,” said T. Jet Stream ceased her pulls and got close to T’s face. “Turquoise Blitz, know now that you can never, ever, embarrass me. I don’t care if you don’t know, I’ll show you how to move, all I want is to dance with you and see you have some fun. Forget what they think, so long as you’re having a good time, that’s all that matters, right?” Turquoise never thought Nidra of all ponies as being the mature spirit lifter, but the way she spoke with such confidence and…affection? No he had to be imagining that. With a heavy sigh and a broad smile, Turquoise sat up and allowed Jet Stream to guide him to the dancefloor. He had to admit, he was nervous. The eyes of the other ponies on him as he walked towards the center with Jet Stream, Turquoise was starting to get more and more worried about embarrassing the mare. After showing off all those cool dance moves, she was about to dance with a lumbering, uncoordinated oaf like him?! He was a large stallion, he couldn’t perform the kind of aerial tricks that Prism, Whirlwind, or even Starburst could do. He was always limited by his size and bulk. Before Turquoise realized it they had stopped walking and were in the middle of the dancefloor. The DJ began playing the music and everypony started into their own dance routines. Jet Stream remained still, looking up at the crystal blue eyes of Turquoise, seeing the nervousness and worry present within them. Jet Stream tapped her hoof against the floor, she nodded towards that same hoof, drawing Turquoise’s attention to it. He was starting to get it. T listened to the music, tapping his own hoof against the floor in rhythm to the music. Soon he was bobbing his head to it, Jet Stream was doing the same, smiling at seeing the stallion find the rhythm of the music. She started to do a couple of simple moves, easily enough mimicked. Turquoise did the moves as best he could, both were going slow, Jet Stream not moving as fast as she was earlier. Most likely it was for his benefit, he guessed. Despite not being able to dance, Turquoise had good rhythm, letting the music define his moves. Jet Stream and Turquoise continued their slightly quickened dance, while all eyes weren’t drawn on her like last time, Jet Stream only cared about one pair of eyes, and they were staring right back at her. The alicorn thestral and dracony had stayed at the club, mingling, having a drink – non-alcoholic – and kept on into the midnight hour, and maybe an hour or two after it. Nidra could go all night partying around at different clubs, but her energy levels were higher at night than during the day, so it was expected. Turquoise however was starting to get visibly exhausted, not used to being up at late hours like this. Nidra took pity on the stallion she longed for and decided that it was time to head back. The two of them easily slipped back into the castle undetected by anypony, all the while, Nidra could see the elation in Turquoise, as if all his worry about Annie and the war was gone tonight, leaving only her and him. Turquoise and Nidra had made it to the hallway where their respective rooms were at. Nidra didn’t want to lose this feeling, these past few days and now this night, she had felt herself get closer to Turquoise, and had fallen in love with him more and more. She still wanted to be by him, so she dared ask. “Turquoise?” “Hmmm?” “Do you mind if…I sleep in your bed tonight? I’m kind of tired and my legs are sore, and I kind of feel like just collapsing right now.” “Oh sure, I’ll just sleep on the couch inside,” said Turquoise. “Well…not like that. I mean you and me both in the bed…together.” Smooth~ I’m totally not even thinking about that right now!   Turquoise was hesitant at first, sleeping in the same bed with Annie was one thing, they were a couple, and the two of them were too “goody-goody” to actually do anything while in the same bed. But Nidra…she was one of his best friends, Annie’s too. It wasn’t so weird to do the same thing, they were friends. The dracony stallion nodded his head and could see the corners of Nidra’s mouth raise into a smile. Turquoise unlocked his door and let Nidra in first, the faint moonlight of the waning crescent seeped into the room, giving it a milky-blue coloring. Nidra dove into the bed like an excited filly, Turquoise rolled his eyes at the playful side of his friend and, with a bit of caution, entered the bed. Nidra kept her back to Turquoise, and Turquoise did the same, neither one able to sleep due to the other’s presence. For Nidra it was pure adrenaline, she couldn’t believe she was in the same bed with the stallion she had a crush on for years. For Turquoise it was the odd thumping in his heart, he didn’t understand why he felt so nervous about this, it was only Nidra. Yeah, Nidra! The mare who’s a great dancer, gentle when she wants to be, caring, hot – wait what?! Did I just think Nidra was hot?! In all honesty Turquoise couldn’t deny that. Okay so she’s hot, and cute…and…UGH! Get a grip T, she’s your friend and you’re with Annie! Remember Annie?! The mare who’s out there fighting for her life and everypony else’s too?!    “Turquoise…?” “Y-Yeah?” “I wanted to tell you that,” Nidra turned around and faced T’s back, she then placed a hoof gently on the center of his back, “I really had fun out there tonight, and that…it was probably the best time I had sneaking out.” Turquoise grinned upon hearing that. “I’m glad that you did, and honestly, I had a pretty good time too! Annie’s going to be surprised to hear you got me out dancing.” Nidra’s smile faltered a bit. “………Hey, T, can I ask you something?” “Sure.” “If…If you never met Anthea…and met me first instead…do you think we could’ve been coltfriend and fillyfriend?” Nidra asked. Turquoise arched his neck in Nidra’s direction. “Honestly?” “Yes, honestly!” The dracony stallion let out a long sigh. “I guess…We could’ve been. I mean, you’re fun to be around, a little rough around the edges, but you’re really kind and caring underneath.” I’m not…I’m selfish… “And if I’m not being totally weird by saying this, I think you’re cute too.” Nidra’s eyes went wide upon hearing that. “Turquoise…look at me.” T turned his body, just in time for Nidra’s hooves to shoot out and hold onto his muzzle on either side. She stared into his eyes, glistening with a tears and a happiness that T never saw in her before. Before he could utter a word, Nidra closed the distance between them, pressing her lips against Turquoise’s. It was a soft kiss, but one that caught the dracony stallion completely off guard. Nidra put more pressure on the kiss, pushing back as she was about to turn it into a more passionate kiss. But Turquoise was able regain his senses, he quickly tore his muzzle away from Nidra’s, jumping out the bed and landing on all fours on the floor. “Turquoise!” “No! Nidra, what was that about?!” “I…I…” “Nidra you really need to explain yourself right now! Why did you kiss me?! You know Annie’s my fillyfriend, and you’re her best friend dammit!” “Because I’m in love with you Turquoise Blitz!” Nidra shouted. Silence befell the room, with Turquoise staring dumbfounded at Nidra, and the alicorn thestral now starting to cry actual tears. Turquoise wanted to go and comfort her, but he couldn’t, not after what she said. This was unbelievable, Nidra was in love him, has been, and she just kissed him! “H-How long?” T asked. “Since the day I first saw you, at first it was just because we were alike y’know? Somepony who was as different as me, but the more time I got to spend around you, the more I realized that it wasn’t just because of how we looked! You’re…You’re the kind of stallion I’ve always dreamed of being with, somepony who could understand me and love me back, despite the way I scare some ponies, act like a spoiled brat, you’re willing to look past all that and see me for me! T…I love you…I really and truly do!” Turquoise sat on his haunches, trying to absorb all that Nidra had said. He wasn’t going to lie, a part of him did find Nidra attractive, but he never let it bother him or grow into something. T had remained faithful to Annie, on the day she said yes to being a couple, Turquoise swore he’d never be unfaithful to Annie, and be by her side whenever she needed him. But now…now he felt something, something that he wasn’t even sure was right. That kiss from Nidra, although completely out of the blue, was nice…it was even as nice as kissing Annie. Nidra looked upon the stallion, wondering what he was thinking, and at the same time fearing it. She had kissed him, in a moment she gave into her emotions and kissed the stallion she had pinned over for so long, and yet, at the same time she had just broken the trust of a mare who had called her friend. But maybe this was for the best, if T was thinking this hard, maybe he was contemplating even leaving Annie. “Turquoise…It’s not too late for us to have something, the two of us,” said Nidra. “What are you saying Nidra?!” “If-If you want, we could be a couple! Starting now, we could give it a try!” T shook his head at the idea. “You’re asking me to cheat on Annie while she’s away fighting?!” “Anthea is more than capable of taking care of herself with that ring of hers! She’ll come back alright! But T, this is a chance, a chance for us to explore our feelings about each other, to pursue something that we never knew was even an option!” “STOP!!!” T shouted. “Just…Just stop…” Nidra crawled off the bed and slowly made her way towards T. “T…I…I only meant…” She reached out to try and touch his cheek, but Turquoise quickly jerked his head away. That one action was more damaging than any word or blow from a blade. “I think you need to go back to your room now…” Nidra wanted to protest, to keep fighting! But the look in T’s eyes, the tension in his body, this wasn’t a request, no, he was telling her to leave him alone as nicely as possible. The kind and caring nature in his voice and eyes had left, now all was left was the sounds of a pony who had been betrayed. Nidra hung her head low, passing by Turquoise who continued to stare at the window to the night sky. “I’m…I’m sorry…” Those were her last words as Nidra exited the room and closed the door behind her.                   Gates of Volkan… Anubis paced back and forth, the losses he had suffered at the hands of the minotaurs and the Star Sapphire ring wielder were great. They had attacked one other time since then, and the results were the same. The cannon fire halted the airships, and the crystal glaves that stuck out of the ground kept them from attacking with their ground forces. Oh they tried an aerial attack with the griffons, but the results were the same if not worse! The Star Sapphire would use her power to push the soldiers away, it was insulting! As if saying it they weren’t even worth the energy to kill!  And when they tried another cannon barrage, nothing. The Star Sapphire would just summon forth a giant barrier and protect the downed ship and the crew. The only thing that didn’t make this worse was that the ponies couldn’t get any reinforcements from Saddle Arabia due to the interference from the mountains, but that also put them in a similar position. If they ran out of ships and troops then they’d have to retreat back to the Empire in disgrace! Anubis drew his sword and slashed at the air, striking rock from time to time in a fit of rage. “They sent my pack and the rest of us running after having our snouts bloodied up! The Empress is not going to be pleased, and neither will the rest of the Jackal Chiefs!” “Yes, quite the debacle you had indeed.” Anubis took hold of his sword again, holding steady and entering a defensive stance. The voice echoed in the darkness, his sensitive ears swiveled to and fro as Anubis tried to pick up on the voice’s origin, but it sounded like it had come out from all directions. “Who are you?! Show yourself!” Anubis demanded. “If you insist…” The shadows seemed to come alive, undulating and crawling like a living creature roused from slumber. Anubis took a few cautionary steps back, watching as the shadows gathered and shot up about five feet into the air. The coalesced into a sphere and then burst open, changing into a portal of darkness. What emerged from the portal was a griffon, clothed in black armor. A white symbol of an upside down triangle with five vertical bars was emblazoned onto his chest armor, his large and intimidating wings were black as night, it was as if they were made of shadows. Upon his right middle talon was a ring, it glowed with an otherworldly, ominous black light as the white symbol at its center pulsated. The plumage around his head was stark white, but his eyes were like pools of darkness, irises an icy blue that pierced the soul. The portal behind the griffon closed, Anubis held his sword pointed at the mysterious griffon, though they were on the same side, he had no knowledge as to this one’s allegiance. “Who are you?!” Anubis asked. “My name isn’t terribly important, just know that I am here in secret on behalf of the Empress.” Anubis lowered his sword a little, but not enough that he couldn’t quickly snap it back to cut the griffon’s throat. “State your business then.” “I hear you’re having a little trouble getting through the Equestrian’s defense? Got your rears kicked and sent running with your tail between your legs,” said the dark messenger. The black jackal growled angrily. “That was a fluke! Next time I’ll –!” “You’ll be in the same position you are now. So long as they have a pony with power similar to the Fear Lantern’s your forces will be halted each time. But there are ways to neutralize it. And ways to get around them.” Anubis was skeptical that this griffon knew of such ways, but as it stood he really didn’t have many other options and strategies to go on right now. “Continue…” “I can give you a little edge, one that will allow you to get around their defenses. They are shipwrecked at the Saddle Arabian Gate, correct? Then all you need to do is hit them from one side and then the other. A pincer strike if you will.” Anubis scoffed. “And how do you purpose we do that?! The gateway is blocked by their ship, which still has working armaments! There isn’t a way to get to the passage that leads to Saddle Arabia, unless one of our ships breaks the line on the other end and makes its way from there!” “Hold out your sword.” Anubis blinked. “Do it!” Reluctantly Anubis did as he commanded, holding out his khopesh sword straight out in front of him. The black griffon walked up to the weapon and gripped it with his left talon. That same talon began to glow with dark energy, it seeped into the sword and ran up the jackal’s arm. He tried to pull away, but the energy had bound his hand to the weapon. The darkness crawled further up his arm and sunk itself into his chest, making Anubis howl into the air! The black griffon released the weapon and let Anubis fall to his knees, panting hard from taking in the power.     “So then, General Anubis, how do you feel?” Anubis began to chuckle as he rose up on his paws. When he looked upon the black griffon, Anubis’ eyes matched that of the griffon’s, but instead of icy blue, they were a bright yellow. “Amazing, such power!” Anubis exclaimed. “Yes, but keep your blade close. I couldn’t funnel all of it into your body directly so I used your sword as a conduit. With it you can form portals, with no limit to size, and wield a fair degree of dark destructive power. The Fear Lantern’s creations seemed to have adverse reactions to magic and dark magic especially, if you want to win, you must take out the one with the ring. Understand?” Anubis swung his sword around, the black and purple aura flowing in the wake of each stroke of the blade. Anubis slashed once with the sword, and before him space was severed, creating a black gash that opened up into a portal. The black jackal willed the portal to close. He then pointed the sword at boulder jutting up from the ground, concentrating, he fired a blast of dark energy at the rock! Obliterating it in a single blast. “You seem like you like it,” said the black griffon. “Very! And I have the perfect way to use this power…Their day of reckoning comes at dawn!”