//------------------------------// // Chapter 32, An Unexpected not so Happy Ending // Story: An Unexpected Life // by alejin //------------------------------// As Celestia’s sun rose to welcome a new day, Bright opened his eyes. He immediately noticed he wasn’t in his room. He was under that tree on the hill. Next to him was his fiancé, with that angelical face of hers. Both of them were covered by the picnic blanket. As he remembered how amazing last night had been, he smiled and gave her a quick kiss on the lips. Flying Hope grinned and opened her eyes. In front of her was the human she loved so much, who’s kiss she returned. “Hello my fiancé.” Flying said, blushing a little. “Hello beautiful, I hope you weren’t uncomfortable sleeping here in the open field.” “If I’m with you, I wouldn’t mind sleeping even on spikes.” Flying Hope said while nuzzling her cheek in Bright’s chest. “Thank you dear, I love you so much.” “Not as much as I love you.” - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Once Bright was dressed, the pair proceeded to go back to the castle. The walk through the city wasn’t too bad; most ponies were starting their daily chores and many even greeted them. When they arrived at the castle they were received by Princess Celestia and Luna, both of which were blushing quite hard. Bright and Flying Hope looked to each other confused. “... uhm, hello Mother. Aunt Luna.” Celestia approached her son and gave him a kiss on the forehead. “Hello Sweetie. Normally, I believe you two had an amazing... date last night?” Celestia said whilst blushing a little more. Bright wasn’t an idiot. His mother and aunt were hiding something. Not in the mood to prolong the issue, he said: “Ok! Tell me, what is going on here? And don’t you dare to lie to me.” Luna, a little nervous, was the one who answered. “I’m afraid we cannot answer that question in detail. But, what we can say is that... now I see why you cast a sound-proofing spell when you share intimacy in your room with your marefriend.” Bright and Flying blushed hard as their jaws fell. “Aunt... Aunt Luna… don’t tell me you... ” Nervously smiling, Celestia intervened. “We just wanted to make sure you were alright. We were in the sky watching over your date and well... you two were... by my mother, I didn’t know a mare could scream that high, even in the throes of pleasure!” “MOM!!!” By this moment Flying Hope was sweating bullets. Her face couldn’t be redder, she was so embarrassed. “Bright... I think I will go to my- my room. I need... need a shower. See you later my love!” Flying said and ran to her room as fast as her hooves allowed her. Bright wasn’t faring any better, and gathering all his courage he asked: “Let us never speak of this again, ok?” “Ok Sweetie, and if you want I can... teach Flying Hope a spell to make a better sound proof barrier. One designed for use outdoors... ok?” “I... will keep it in mind.” Bright went to his room, took take a shower, and changed clothes. After that, he and his still cutely embarrassed fiancé joined Celestia in the dining room to have some breakfast, as Luna headed off to sleep for the day. It was so cute to see her profusely apologizing to Princess Celestia for spending the night with the prince without permission. Celestia only laughed and told her everything was fine. After all, even she was young once. She also told her that she expected to have some grandkids eventually, which Bright noticed she said in peculiar tone. Despite that, he smiled at the display. Flying Hope didn’t know it, but it was no secret his mother knew about his nights with her. But... now that he actually thought about it... grandkids? His mother didn’t know, of course, but it was impossible! He remembered very well back in Minus, when after Mr. Jilt ran some tests, he had told Bright he could mate with a variety of different species, but conceiving a child was out of question. His genes simply weren’t compatible with any other known species. Bright wasn’t surprised one bit. It was so obvious, in a way. He knew hiding this from his loved ones was unfair, but if he was to approach them, he feared what his fiancé would think about it. Would she maybe, gulp, change her mind? He hesitated for a moment, but steeled his courage. He decided to tell them, but just as he was about to talk, Flying spoke first. “I’m glad you think that way Princess but... I don’t think that will be possible” She turned towards her fiancé, “Right Bright?” Bright looked at his mare with widened eyes. She knew? “You- you knew, Flying?” Flying nodded her head. “I know we are different species, Bright. And considering that... it’s obvious we will never be able to have a child of our own.” “But, if you knew, then why do you want to stay with me? Don’t you want to have a foal of your own?” “The only thing I want for sure is to be with you. Although a foal would be nice, even though we can’t create our own we can always adopt... if you want.” Bright’s heart almost exploded. This mare... this mare was out of this world! He immediately hugged and kissed her passionately. “Flying, you are so perfect. How did I manage to win your heart? I know I’ve said this too many times but I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!” Flying returned the hug with equal fervor, then the two of them were joined in the hug by none other than Princess Celestia. “Flying Hope... you passed my test.” Both Flying and Bright looked at her, confused. “When Bright was still little, I made sure my royal doctors ran all manner of tests on him, under my supervision of course. I wanted to know everything about his physiology in order to feed and care for him properly. In one of those tests we discovered he couldn’t procreate with a pony. I didn’t mind at first, but later I was afraid of what could happen someday if my son was to find a special somepony who would leave him for being unable to give her a foal. But you didn’t care about that, and for that... thank you, with all my heart!” Celestia nuzzled Flying Hope’s cheek. “Flying Hope, since the day I first saw you when you were just a little foal, I knew you were special. I saw how you were falling in love with my little colt as the years passed. It took some time, a lot of time really, but you finally managed to catch him. Your conviction is strong, your heart is clean and pure and above all else, you sincerely love my son. So let me make it official.” “I, PRINCESS Celestia, CO-RULER OF EQUESTRIA AND MOTHER OF BRIGHT STEEL, OFFICIALLY GIVE YOU MY BLESSING TO GO FORTH AND EVENTUALLY MARRY MY SON!” Flying Hope was speechless. She thought Princess Celestia still had her reservations about her going out with Bright, but now... now she was giving them her blessings! There were no words to express her happiness. “Than- Thank you Princess Celestia! I- I will make him happy, I swear!” Bright kissed her on the cheek and said: “I already am Flying, with my family and you by my side forever, I’m the happiest creature in the world. Now I can say it without a doubt: my life is perfect.” “Not as perfect as mine, Bright.” Flying added and hugged him hard. She couldn’t be happier even if she tried to be. After that tender moment, the three of them shared a delicious breakfast. Some brief farewells later, Celestia proceeded to the courtroom to start her day while Flying and Bright took a walk in the royal gardens. As they sat under a tree, Flying Hope rested her head on Bright chest and stared the sky. “What are you thinking sweetie?” “Not much. Just... how everything changed so much in just a few months. After I lost you, I never was the same. Don’t misunderstand, I had a happy life, my family helped me to overcome the sadness but... I so wanted to see you. I was starting to let you go, but now you are here with me. My very special somepony, no less. Mine in soul and body. I’m still afraid this is just a long dream.” Bright smiled and kissed her deeply. “Did that kiss feel unreal?” “No, but... I wouldn’t mind another test.” Bright kissed her again and again until they were out of breath. It was a wonderful moment until he recalled an unhappy reminder. “You have to leave tomorrow, don’t you?” “Yes, I need to see my mom in Manehattan. I also want to show her this ring and give her the good news!” “Can’t she come here? I don’t want you let you go.” “It will only be a couple of days. Plus, I also need to submit my resignation from the Manehattan Ponydoll magazine.” “Uh… what’s this now?” “Didn’t I tell you? I’m quitting my job and returning to live here in Canterlot! I already have a couple of job offers here, no more long distance relations Bright! I even got a nice place near the castle! Isn’t that-” Bright closed her mouth with his fingers and said: “Oh no! My princess living outside the castle? Working hard while I, her fiancé, does nothing? No Ma’am! You are coming to live here with me and you will start living as the princess you are. No more work for you... well unless you want to for the pleasure of it or if my mother gives us a territory to run... Then, well, then we will have a lot of work. I hope you don’t mind.” Flying kissed him and answered, “Do I look like I mind?” “No... and I love you for that.” - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - After another even more amazing night together, Bright and Flying were saying farewell in the train station. They hugged for several minutes until she was called to get on the train. “Take care Sweetie!” “You too, my love!” They kissed one last time and Flying entered in the train. Bright saw her entering and felt something deep inside. “FLYING!!!” Flying Hope turned about towards him in surprise. “Yes?” “...Please come back to me soon.” “giggle I will, don’t worry. And once I do, we will always be together.” Bright calmed down a little after hearing her say that. Flying Hope retreated inside the train and it started its way towards Manehattan. Bright watched it until it was out of sight. He was starting to miss her already. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - (Bright Steel’s Diary P.O.V.) DAY - - - - It’s been only one day since Flying Hope went to Manehattan. By my dear Mother, I miss her so much. I asked the castle staff to start preparing the special surprise I designed for Flying Hope. I can’t wait for my love to see her new room. A room fit for a real Princess... my Princess. DAY - - - - I asked Pinkie Pie to come by today, and she brought the rest of the Elements save Twilight. That made me sad. I’m not angry with her anymore, and I really wanted to make amends. Someday I will go to visit her in Ponyville. Getting back on track, when I told everypony about my engagement with Flying, they all cheered loudly and congratulated me. Rarity even offered her services to make the wedding dress. Pinkie Pie gladly agreed to plan a party I wanted to arrange for my fiancé to celebrate her moving to the castle, I must say Pinkie’s parties seem a little... childish at times, but hey! Who I am to question the best party planner in all Equestria? Besides, she was highly recommended by Cadence, which was mostly why I thought to call on her in the first place. DAY - - - - Twilight came by today to visit me. I was rather surprised. She congratulated me on my engagement, and we talked for a little while. I apologized for the way I talked to her in the Crystal Empire and she did as well. We hugged for several minutes and I told her she would always be my special friend. She told me the same but I knew she still has feelings for me. I really hope she finds a good stallion to make her happy. DAY - - - - Today was a great day, my fiancé’s room is ready! I can’t deny I’d like to have her sharing my room, but I know I must give her her space. Besides, nopony ever said I couldn’t visit her some nights, as can she. The room is exactly as I imagined. I thanked the royal architects enthusiastically. They were surprised seeing me being nice and genuinely grateful to them. I was confused at first, but then I remembered the only royal they really had to deal with daily. I assured them that I’m nothing like Blueblood, and that calmed them down and some even smiled. I must say... ponies are indeed amazingly trusting. DAY - - - - Today I received a letter from Mrs. Margaret, Jilt, and Zahari. They are so happy with the news. I told them I wanted them and my pals from the Minus market to come to the wedding. All of them accepted. They will be my royal guests. I have a good feeling this could help to make amends between Equestria and Minus. I can’t wait for my pony family to meet them. DAY - - - - I’ve been exchanging letters with Sweet Rose. It was cute reading how she literally started to dance on the roof when Flying told her about our engagement. I told her it will be an honor being her son in law, and she returned the feeling, in one letter even calling me “son”. I laughed so hard, but in a good way. I still remember all the years she took care of me, my sweet special foal sitter. I can even say she is like a third mother to me, alongside Mrs. Margaret and Celestia. I proposed that she come to live in the castle too, but she declined saying she wanted to be in Manehattan so she could keep visiting her husband’s tombstone. I respect her decision, but told her the offer was always open. Too bad I couldn’t meet him, I’m sure he was a great pony. DAY - - - - Dear diary... you know almost nothing scares me but right now, I’m more afraid than ever. I just had a dream. I saw a pony, saying goodbye to me and walking to a shining light. It looked like ... like Flying Hope, but I can’t be sure since the shine was so blinding. I woke up immediately and wrote her a letter, silently thanking my Mother that she took the special everlasting green fire lantern with her. I asked how she was and mentioned my fears about my dream. Thankfully, her reply came a few minutes later, and she assured me that she was fine and to not worry. But I can’t. I’m afraid... no! I’M TERRIFIED! DAY - - - - Aunt Luna helped with my dreams tonight. She is amazing, and thanks to her I managed to have a good night of sleep finally. Still, I hope to have my fiancé back by my side very soon. DAY - - - - FINALLY!!! Flying Hope is coming back today alongside her Mom. I can’t wait to see Sweet Rose, we have so much to talk about! I’m so excited but, I still can’t shake this feeling. Flying... please come back soon. (END POV) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - (TRAIN STATION) Bright, along with dozen of guards, was waiting for the Friendship Express. Nearly everything was set. Her new room, the welcome party, and now only Princess Flying Hope was missing. They all waited past the scheduled time, but the train never arrived. They couldn’t even see the train’s smoke in the distance. At first they didn’t suspect anything, it wasn’t strange for a train to be delayed, but Bright had a terrible feeling that something was not right. After twenty minutes, Bright was growing increasingly impatient and worried. He motioned to a couple of his pegasi royal guards. “You two! Please, fly high and see if the train is near.” “Yes, Prince Bright!” both ponies replied firmly, and did as they were commanded. When they were at a considerably high distance, the two of them noticed something odd. They flew towards the same direction, much to Bright and everypony else’s confusion. After a few minutes they returned, but they were not alone. They were carrying a couple additional pegasi ponies. Bright and the other Guards were surprised and shocked at the newcomers’ state: both were injured and parts of their bodies and fur were burnt. Aa worried sweat broke out on Brights brow, and his body became very cold. He quickly approached the two injured ponies. One was unconscious and the other was about to pass out as well. “What... what happened to you two?” “Prince... Bright Steel... it- it happened so fast. Everything was quiet and then... he attacked. He tackled the train... got us out of the way.. We managed to escape some distance before our wings gave out but... but the rest... they need help... please, no... time to lose...” As the pegasus fainted, Bright immediately summoned his axe and started to run very fast using his thunder acceleration. While running, he shouted back. “Guards! Follow me as quickly as you can! And be prepared to fight!” The second later, he was out of sight. The pegasi guards followed him while the Earth ponies and unicorns took the injured to the hospital and also sent a messenger to inform Princess Celestia of the news and rally support. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - “Please Flying Hope, please be ok! This can’t be happening, NOT AGAIN!” Steel kept running, though the wind hurt eyes, Running at that speed for longer period of times without using googles was really a bad idea, but he didn’t care. He had to get there fast, no matter what the cost. After some minutes running on the rails, he finally saw something at the distance. It was smoke! And not only that, there was something flying around that area. Something huge! It was... a dragon! A big, red, and menacing dragon; the only creature Mr. Onyx and Zahari told him to never face besides alicorns. He felt intimidated by its sheer size, but the feeling vanished when he finally saw the origin of the smoke was not the dragon itself. It was the Friendship Express! It was completely wrecked and off the rails. A few pegasi and unicorns were using water clouds to try to extinguish the fire with little success while others were trying to distract the dragon. But the majority were lying on the ground. They were... NO! FLYING!!!! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - The dragon was roaring, trying to take down the pegasi around him. He managed to bat some down to the ground or at least away from his face. After some minutes, only one pegasus was left. The dragon caught her in his claws and started to laugh darkly. The pony, knowing it may be her end, could only ask: “Why? Why are you doing this? We didn’t do anything to provoke you!” “YOU DIDN’T DO ANYTHING?” he boomed. “I FINALLY FIND A NICE PLACE TO SLEEP IN THESE MOUNTAINS, AND THE FIRST THING I HEARD IS THIS DAMN TRAIN! HOW DARE YOU PUNNY PONIES DISTURB MY REST!” “Listen… cough... we are sorry... we didn’t know.” “SILENCE! LET THIS BE A LESSON FOR ALL OF YOU! DON’T MESS WITH DRAGONS!!” The dragon started to crush the pegasus, who began screaming. He was so busy having his “fun”, that he didn’t notice the strange creature jumping right at him. Steel, with his fist fully charged with electricity, punched the dragon’s jaw. He threw everything he had behind it. The dragon recoiled from the huge hit and the masses of electricity coursing through his body. His grip on the pegasus loosened enough for her to fall, as the force from the impact sent him sailing into a nearby mountain. With any luck, he was dead! Steel caught the pegasus in his arms and used his powers to lower them both safely to the ground. When he saw who this pegasus was, he was shocked as he realized he recognized her. The yellow coat and flaming mane should have been a give-away even at a distance, and the cutie mark only confirmed it. It was Spitfire, leader of the wonderbolts! No wonder she managed to face off against the beast for so long. He took her to where everypony else was, and was relieved to see they managed to extinguish the fire. He left Spitfire with a passenger medic and started to look inside the train and the wreckage. The dead outnumbered the living; a sight that would haunt him for the rest of his life, but he didn’t have time to think about that, his mind focused on a singular goal. He kept searching for his future family, and it wasn’t long until he found Sweet Rose. She was buried under burned wood and badly scorched herself. “Sweet!” Bright immediately tossed aside the debris covering her and started to nuzzle her cheek. “Hang in there, I’m taking you out of here.” At that moment, Sweet Rose opened her eyes and coughed up some blood. When she saw who was next to her, she smiled and managed to say: “Bright... is it you?” “Yes! But please don’t talk, you need to save your strength.” “No... I’m not gonna make it... look at the floor...” Bright did as she said and was horrified! How had he not seen it before? Under Sweet Rose there was a still growing pool of blood. She had a deep cut under her ribs and was hemorrhaging badly! How was she still alive?! “Sweet... you need a transfusion, don’t worry I’ll...” A hoof gently covered his mouth. Sweet, with some tears in her eyes but still smiling said: “Take care of Flying... my sweet little colt. I know she is still alive and can still make it. Call it Mother’s intuition.” Bright chuckled a little, it was the nickname she used to call him when he was 6 years old. Already crying he said: “Yes... and don’t worry, I’ll find her.” “Good... and goodbye. My husband is ready here to take me. See you in Elysium... in many many years.” With that, and a gentle smile, Sweet Rose closed her eyes forever. Bright looked at her. Her face was peaceful. He was so sad, but there was no time to mourn his Mother-in-law. With the fire completely out now, he continued his search. “Flying! Where are you? Please... say something!” There was no reply. “Please! Just say something and I will be there in a second!” “...here...” “What? Is it you? Where are you?” “I’m... here.” Steel heard her, the voice was weak but he heard her! The voice of his princess, just as Sweet Rose said she was alive! He sprinted to the source of the voice. Arriving in mere seconds, he used his thunder strength to throw away all the train wreckage in his way to find his fiancé. After a few seconds, he found her! She was nearly unconscious. Her state was horrible. She too was covered in train pieces which he immediately cast aside. When he could see her whole body, he could barely hold back the urge to retch. His fiancé badly needed medical attention. “Flying Hope! Hang in there, I’ll take you to somewhere safe!“ “Aghhhhhh!” Flying screamed as Steel carried her. Her whole body was a mess. Her hind legs broken, as were her ribs, and her tears coming endlessly implied more damage he couldn’t immediately see.” “It ... it hurts so much Bright. Please... make it stop!” “Shuuuuu…” He hushed, “Just a little more, we are almost there.” “Ok... Thank you... I knew you were coming for me... my Prince in shining armor.” Bright smiled and gave her a careful kiss. She was alive... thank his Mom she was ALIVE!” “Sorry for not coming sooner but don’t worry. I’m here now and nothing will ever hurt you again.” “Thank you, my prince... But... I must know, did you find my mother?” Steel felt his heart crushing even more. He just... closed his eyes. He didn’t have the heart to tell her her mother was dead. “Bright?” “No... I haven’t found her, but don’t worry. You need to rest.” “... are you hiding something from me?” “Please Flying... just please trust me. We’ll talk later after we get you to a medic.” Flying Hope started crying. Her fiancé hadn’t said it, but she saw through him clearly. Bright knew she had figured out. He hugged her tighter and said: “I’m sorry, she was a good pony.” Flying Hope fainted from crying and the loss of blood. Bright looked at her in his arms. She looked so fragile and broken. He began to think about his mother in law... his foalsitter... the mother of the love of his life... “DAAAAAAAAAAAAMN!” he screamed like he never before. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Bright was immensely unstable. There were so many emotions in his head clamoring for attention but the strongest one was... BLOODLUST! He knew he had to calm himself, but before he could even begin both he and everypony else heard a roar in the distance. The dragon was waking up, and was surprisingly not dead. Steel was speechless. He had hit the dragon with the full intention of killing it! He didn’t hold back at all! How was he still alive? It didn’t matter, he had a justified target for his rage now. With eyes full of hatred, he rushed off leaving his fiancé in the medic’s hooves, and proceeded to jump high and far to where this damn dragon was recovering. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - The dragon was standing back up and nursing his cheek. Noticing it was a missing fang, it opened its eyes and screamed: “WHO DARED DO THIS TO ME!” “I DARE!!” The dragon turned to see who screamed back, and saw a little creature flying his way, surrounded in an aura of cyan static. Steel delivered a powerful punch, leaving the dragon barely any time to block it with his arms, though the impact still forced him a few meters back. It hurt and once again he again felt the electricity passing through his body. Once the immediate pain was gone, the dragon looked intently at the creature. He was strange little thing, like a hairless gorilla or monkey. But what it really caught his attention were two things: the glowing axe he held in his paws, and the fact he seemed to be jumping on the air in a strange mimicry of flight. His feet were surrounding by the miniature thunderheads. He was literally hitting the air to keep floating there. Steel was as surprised as the dragon regarding this new ability. “Wow... I didn’t know I could do this. But now’s not the time. Keep focused Steel, focus!” He thought. “So what are you... Wuahh!” The dragon failed to complete his question before Steel kicked the air harder, propelling himself at high speed as he swung his axe and nearly cut one of the dragon’s arms. Steel growled and kept trying to cut him. The dragon extended his wings defensively to keep away, but Steel gave no quarter. He was flying forward almost as fast as the dragon was backpedalling. “Hey! What are you doing?” “Isn’t it obvious? I’M TRYING TO KILL YOU!” The dragon smirked and breathed fire at him. Steel dodged it easIly and tried to cut him once again, but the dragon was very agile and had more experience in the air. Not used to to his new ability, Steel was getting tired fast and the Dragon noticed this. He tried to blitz the small biped, but was stopped by a hail of dozens of arrows. He looked to who dared shoot him, and spotted a garrison of royal pegasi guards. “My prince! Are you alright? We are here to assist you!” “Roaaaaaaaar!” The dragon shouted and tried to attack the guards, but once again Steel socked him in the jaw when his attention was on the pegasi. He spat another fang. “Your opponent it’s me!” Steel declared, and then, turning to his subjects, “You there! Go and help the survivors and please... secure my fiance and her mother’s body. We’ll give her a proper funeral later. And... take care of Flying Hope... she is your future princess.” he choked out, nearly in tears. “But sir... your mother ordered us to protect you...” “Just go! She and some of the other survivors can still make it if they are treated promptly.” he said, turning back towards the dragon, “This one’s mine.” The guards nodded and with some degree of reluctance, followed his orders. Once they were gone, Steel turned to the dragon who was smirking at the display. “Brave words creature, but you know you are almost at your limit. You will die here and you know that, don’t you?” “I will not die here. My love needs me now more than ever! ENOUGH TALK... PLASMA EDGE!” The dragon was amazed to see a phantom edge form around the axe. He knew he couldn’t let it reach him or he would be done for. He immediately breathed fire balls at Steel, who deflected them with ease and continued flying at the fiend. He backed off as fast he could and dodged every attack. Steel was so tired by this point, all these attacks were really draining him. He once again tried to hit the dragon, but once again it dodged him at the last second, leaving Steel in a vulnerable position. The dragon was also becoming fatigued, but he still had enough strength to hit Steel with his powerful claws. Steel’s plasma barrier was shattered into pieces and he was sent flying to the ground. He was done for. He had no power left to slow his landing or strength left in his body to resist the crash. “No!!! I can’t die here... Flying Hope! Mother... please help me” he muttered before closing his eyes as he braced for the impact. But before he landed like an overripe tomato, he felt a blue aura surrounding his body. It was warm and nice. He opened his eyes and saw his Aunt Luna, who immediately scooped him in her arms and started to nuzzle him protectively. “My dear nephew... fear no more, we are here now.” “Cough… cough... We?” Steel then noticed there was somepony flying in front of the dragon. It was his mother, but something was different about her. Her eyes...they were flaming with vengeful wrath. She was far from angry... she was REALLY pissed. The dragon, unintimidated, smirked and said casually. “Well, well, well, Princess Celestia. It’s an honor to have you in front of me. What can I do for you?” Celestia narrowed her eyes and shot a golden beam of solar energy at the dragon. He tried to deflect it but couldn’t, he was too tired from the fight with the creature and now he was facing an alicorn. He landed on the ground, creating a huge crater where he impacted. He saw the alicorn coming his way, and noticed how immensely her eyes were filled with killing intent. He stood back up making defensive motions with his forelegs, and screamed: “Wait! Wait! What are you doing? You are PRINCESS Celestia... YOU DON’T KILL!” Celestia’s eyes never lost focus the dragon, and with a voice calm but hard as iron, she replied: “You killed many of my innocent little ponies. Killed my son’s fiance’s mother. And not only that, you tried to kill MY SON! TELL ME ONE GOOD REASON TO SPARE YOUR MISERABLE LIFE!” “Well... FOR THIS!” The dragon blew fire at the sun ruler, but she easily blocked it with her barrier. With a glow of her horn, she then trapped the huge dragon with her golden aura. She was impressed. Under normal conditions, even she would have trouble dealing with a full grown dragon, but this one was nearly beaten into submission already. Had her son left him like this? His power was amazing... and dangerous. “Now... what should I do with you?” Luna and Steel landed next to Celestia. As she took in her son’s condition, she immediately embraced him with her wings. Her desire to kill this dragon was still rapidly increasing. “Kill him mother... kill him now!” Steel cried out, thoughts of Sweet Rose rushing to his mind. “My son... don’t let your fury get the best of you. Killing is never the answer.” “He… he killed first! He killed Sweet Rose and many other ponies! They deserve justice!” “Killing is not justice! It’s vengence!” “Mother... if you can’t... it’s ok, let me do it! Aunt Luna, give me some energy like Cadence that one time. I will deliver the fatal blow, right in the head! It’ll be quick and painless, which is more than he deserves.” Luna didn’t know how to respond. She somewhat agreed with her nephew’s logic, but still... “Son... I can’t let you do that. I will not let you go down into that place. Remember, you told me even Mr. Onyx didn’t want you to kill unnecessarily.” “This is not unnecesary! I’m doing a favor for the pony nation! This damn beast will never hurt another pony again! C’mon Aunt Luna, just a little energy will be enough! I’ll handle the rest!” “Luna don’t!” “Please Aunt! You know he deserves it!” “Luna, we may lose him if you let him do it! Please sister, trust in my choices. I don’t want him to become a nightmare beast as we did!” Luna’s eyes widened after hearing that. Her nephew... a nightmare? Knowing she was going to lose him anyway, she made her decision, binding him in her aura. “Aunt Luna? What are you doing?” “I’m sorry my nephew, please forgive me, but I will not allow the darkness to consume you.” “Aunt Luna...Mother... please, don’t do this... DON’T DO THIS! DON’T DENY FLYING HOPE AND ME OUR VENGEANCE!” “I’m so sorry my son.” “Mother, no! Please... don’t! Don’t destroy the bond we have. If you let him live, you can be damn sure I will track him and then kill him myself! And you can forget about me going back to Canterlot!” Celestia’s eyes widened but managed to remain calm. She hesitated for a second. Her heart was hurt. She knew her son was angry and maybe truly didn’t mean anything he was saying, but what if he did? There was a chance she could lose him… again. But losing him to the dark side was even worse. Hoping for the best, she made her decision. She turned to the dragon who had been cowering low through the whole conversation. “For your crimes against my subjects, I sentence you to spend to five thousand years in Tartarus!” “What? No!” “Yes! You will never hurt anypony or anycreature again!” Celestia’s horn shined and a second later, a portal was opened, revealing a dark place containing a huge stone cage. Celestia placed the dragon there and bound him with magic chains. He screamed blasphemies and curses the likes of which hadn’t been spoken in generations, but they fell on deaf ears. She closed the portal and motioned Luna to release Steel and give him some of her energy. After he was slightly recovered, she trotted next to her sister and looked at him, to see how he would respond. He was silent, his sight focused on the ground. He looked at both alicorns, his eyes showing a mixed feeling of sadness and anger. He felt so betrayed, his mom tried to approach him but he took a step back in response. “Just... don’t get near me. How could you? I trusted you...” Celestia felt her heart be crushed. “Sweetie... I ... I know you are mad. But you are not thinking clearly right now. Come here... let’s talk about this.” Bright turned his back to the alicorns and started to walk to the wrecked train. Celestia and Luna tried to talk to him, but he didn’t pay any attention, so they followed him in silence. Everypony looked toward the royal family. The air felt so tense... something wasn’t right. Bright approached to his unconscious fiancé. Though most of her was covered in a sheet, he gently crouched and looked at her pretty face. “I’m sorry my love, I wasn’t able to avenge your mother’s death... I’m so sorry.” He then gave her one soft kiss on the lips. “Let’s go home.” - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - After the incident, many medical chariots came to transport the injured including Steel, He adamantly refused to travel in the royal chariot with Princess Celestia and Luna. With his full attention focused on Flying Hope, the return trip was long and quiet. Once in Canterlot, everypony was taken to the hospital. Though Steel watched as they took Flying Hope to the hospital, he was forbidden from entering to the operating room. He didn’t mind, however, as he knew she was in good hooves. He started to walk to the castle, and as before, his mother and aunt followed behind him. “Bright... Sweetie... I know you are mad at me but please, say something. We need to talk through this.” “...” “My nephew please... we did what we did for you. It was the most just choice... and we know you know that.” “...” Steel kept walking until he reached his room, where he closed the door in the alicorns’ faces. Inside his room, he began breaking everything. Furniture, mirrors, walls, he was so angry and needed to let it out! His tears began flowing and he started to scream. He didn’t care, he wanted everypony to know how frustrated he was, how angry he was with his mother and aunt. “Damn it! Damn it! Why?! Why mother?! I know you are a pacifist! I know you want to set a good example to your subjects but still... why couldn’t you execute that murderer!!!” He so wanted to hate her, to despise her for not letting him get payback... but he couldn’t. Deep inside, he knew she was right. It was like when Mr. Onyx stopped him. But still, he was so angry, and he felt so worthless. Then out of nowhere, he started to see shadows of Sweet Rose and himself as a child. Scenes of that lovely mare taking care of him, his smiles, times when she served him and Flying ice cream or read them bedtime stories. He smiled, but the sorrow quickly returned. The mirage of Sweet hugged the little Bright and said: “You are such a sweet colt, Bright” “Thanks Mrs. Rose, you are the best foal sitter ever! I love you!” “Do you love me?” “Yes! I love you, I love my mommy, I love Cadence! I love Flying Hope. . I love everypony!” “I see... well, I love you too and my daughter loves you very much. Please, always continue being her friend.” “Of course Mrs. Rose, I will always be her friend!” Bright, still smiling, tried to reach out and touch Sweet Rose. But as soon as his hand made contact, she vanished like dust. He stayed there, looking at the place where the mirage was seconds ago, when he felt somepony sitting next to him on the bed. At first he thought it may be another mirage, but when he turned around, he saw his mother and aunt looking at him. It was obvious their hearts were broken as well, their eyes showed how hurt they were. He remembered what he said to them... he wasn’t proud of it but he was stubborn. Trying to seem tough, he asked: “Didn’t I tell you I wanted to be alone?” “Yes… Yes you did my son but tell me... do you really want to bear this alone?” Bright looked at his mother eye to eye. He couldn’t keep the act anymore. His facade crumbled as he hugged both alicorns and started to cry like a baby. He didn’t mind if all of Canterlot heard him.” “NO! I DON’T WANT TO BE ALONE... HUG ME, PLEASE HUG ME MOTHER.” Both alicorns were shocked. They had expected a breakdown, but nothing like this. This was their son and nephew. A strong creature with lot of pride, and now he was here... weeping openly like a foal. He seemed so fragile. Seeing him like this broke their hearts even more. They immediately hugged him and shielded him with their wings. “I’m... sorry, I’m sorry I tried to do that... but I will not say I didn’t want to do it. I wanted to kill him so badly.” “We know son, we know... but we couldn’t let you. Your hands don’t deserve being made dirty by revenge. We love you far too much to let you fall in that dark place.” “I know... and thank you. But it hurts... IT HURTS SO MUCH! AND I DON’T WANT TO THINK HOW MUCH IT MUST HURT FLYING! I FAILED HER!” “Let it out my son, let it out. I wish I knew a spell to cease this pain, but none exist. If it did, likely I would have had used it when I lost you and Luna. But please, stop saying you failed her. You saved her. She is here with us. Your princess is still with you; not everything is lost!” Bright, though still hurt, nodded and kept hugging them until he fell asleep. Celestia placed him in bed, kissed his forehead, and then exited the room with Luna. There was so much they needed to do, starting with breaking the terrible news to everypony in Equestria. While walking, Luna couldn’t stay silent anymore: “Tia... today was a close one. You know that don’t you? If we hadn’t gotten there as fast as we did...” “I know Lulu... but what you expected? My little colt lost something very important to him and almost lost his princess. He needs us more than ever now.” “You are right, but just thinking of what could have happened if we weren’t there… it scares me.” “My son will never succumb to dark forces. Let us have faith in him.” “Sigh... Ok Tia, only because I love him so very much as well.” “Thank you Luna. Now, I think we need to write a letter to Twilight and the Elements.” “Don’t forget Shining Armor and Cadence.” “Of course.”