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Act I: Down The Changeling Hole9,332 words
Act I: Steel Rails and Nerves6,505 words
Act I: Crash Landing4,978 words
Act I: Out Of The Frying Pan...9,797 words
Act I: ...Into The Chaos5,523 words
Act I: Hell Fire1,608 words
Act I: Last Strands of Hope2,328 words
Act I: Power of Friendship PT.12,181 words

Act I: Out Of The Frying Pan...

Out Of The Frying Pan...

By: Silbern

It was so very cold. Every part of his body ached or was simply numb from any feeling. He wasn't exactly sure where he was or how he got here but knew it couldn't be anything good. He could only hold himself in a tight ball against the stone floor and hoped this torture would simply go away.

“Hunny, it's time for breakfast.”

The figure laying upon the ground squeezed tightly to the point where he could feel his fingers dig deeply into his skin. The images and voice haunted him as her sweet words echoed in his head. Like scratching against his last, crumbling defense he tried to hold strong but for too long he depended on the sweet relief of the bottle. The man tried to cry but found he had not even enough energy nor water in his body.

“Please look at me dear. What's wrong?”

“Leave me alone!” He shouted but his voice was scratchy and his throat burned. He didn't dare to open his eyes only to see the same blackness that was his cell and not his lost love.

“I'm here to stay this time. I'll never leave you again.”

He could only whimper as the cracks in his mighty defence spread and widened. His eyes slowly opened only to see what he knew was there. Blackness, as if this stone room was a black hole, consuming everything and everyone. There however was a small light amongst the blackness as the figure turned his head. He started to whimper at the sight as he couldn't believe it.

“Take my hand dear.”

“Michelle? How can this be?” The cowering figure tried to speak clearly but his body suffered under each word. He uncurled and crawled to the woman before him as she bent low to meet him with her dark brown eyes. Her soft hands cupping his unshaven cheek and her smile seeping hope deep into the man's broken heart. “I missed you so much.”

“I know hun.” Margret simply replied as she wrapped her warm arms around the suffering man. Her hum filled the small room as the man only smiled brightly.

Discord smiled as he watched the spectacle. For one thousand years he had planned this out and now everything was falling into place except for one final puzzle piece. The smile wiped from his face as he knew that the only problem was now Uriel. Equestria would have been consumed by a veil of chaos by now if it wasn't for that stubborn colt. There was too much fire in Uriel's heart that no doubt came from his father. “I was more of a father to Uriel then he ever was!” Discord shouted at himself as his inner thoughts tugged at already tense nerves.

The act was rewarded with a few awkward glares from a few changeling guards but they were otherwise quiet.

“Who watched over the small foal for over one thousand years? Me!” Discord harshly whispered under his breath to himself as he simply watched the cell door close behind the short haired brunette woman. The two walked away from the cell without a word until they climbed a large spiral staircase that was carved in the stone.

“We cannot stay here any longer Discord.” The woman simply stated as a short green wave covered her form and the tall Queen Chyrsalis emerged. She stretched her wings with a few flaps before looking back to Discord with some concern in her eyes “Celestia has sent multiple special forces after our tail and I already have lost many hives to them. We are running out of places to hide.” She simply stated their tactical position as she lead him to the command and control centre of her latest hive.

“Do not worry so much queenie.” Discord tried to sooth any worry from her constant stare. Ever since they have been working together it has been constant nagging from her but he had for seen it. “We have the conduit and I am ready to begin the assault. Do you think you have a strong enough grip onto him?” Discord asked although he had seen more then enough to answer his question.

“This situation is different Discord.” She spat with distaste as if just tasting upon a bad meal. “The love he is showing is twisted and desperate. If my changelings were not dying, I would never let any of them touch such energy.”

“But isn't it great?” Discord shouted with glee. “With this we can defeat both friendship and Princess Celestia. Chaos will rule and your changelings will never be hungry again.” Discord explained the future ahead of them as he tapped a map below him. The paper began to curl and whither as if it was a beautiful flower finally coming to it's end.

“For my sake, I hope your right.” The queen said as she didn't lose her composure or joined in on the cheering. “I do not think Celestia has it in her heart for another stone coffin. You will be executed.”

Uriel had been staring at the moon for over an hour now as he laid upon a hay stack. Apparently Big Macintosh wasn't too happy to find not only was a stallion staying with his younger sister but that there was now rumour of a relationship of the more intimate kind thanks to Apple Bloom. The punishment? His new room as the eaves inside the barn that had a single window and some amount of hay for bedding. He knew Applejack wasn't happy with the change of residence but he did his best to calm every pony's nerves by simply accepting and even thanking the large red stallion. How could he blame Big Macintosh for getting protective over his little sister? Uriel knew his older brother would do the same in an instant if he smelled any kind of trouble.

A small rumble echoed from the depths of the Alicorn's stomach as he remembered his last meal being breakfast. He could ask for some food from inside the family home but the smallest chance of even offending the already on edge farm stallion seemed like a bad idea. His only option it would seem to be is to start munching on his bed. The whole eating hay thing still struck him as weird but it had a nice taste to it all things considered. After the small snack he simply lowered his head upon the small bed with deep red eyes searching aimlessly into the night sky thinking about life.

“Excuse me?”

Uriel's eyes shot open from their sleepy state as he lifted his head suddenly. For a moment he thought he was just hearing things until he heard a knock on the large barn doors one floor below him. The Alicorn merely scrunched up his nose in confusion before leaning out the window and seeing Big Macintosh holding something in one hoof. “This is your barn you know.” Uriel said as the red stallion jerked his head up to see where the voice was coming from.

“Ah know it is. My Ma and Pa taught me to respect others personal space however so ah knocked. Can ah come in?” The red stallion below explained before asking permission to enter. It was a few moments as Big Mac watched Uriel disappear from view then heard the pony pulling the door from the inside.

“Come on in I suppose.” Uriel welcomed as he took a few steps off to one side to let the earth pony in. He watched as Big Mac had entered the darken interior of the barn and setting the round object he now held in his mouth down onto a nearby barrel.

“It ain't much but it's dinner left overs.” Big Mac said calmly before dropping a single saddle bag from his back and taking a seat.

Uriel tried to understand the sudden reverse in the red pony's attitude but his stomach however wanted the covered up food. The Alicorn simply closed the barn door and sat across from Big Mac as he nudge the towel off of the plated food. Uriel however paused for a moment as he noticed two eyes staring at him through the dark. “Why are you suddenly bringing me food and acting so calm? It seemed like you wanted to kick my hide back to Ponyville less then an hour ago.” Uriel asked as he waited for the impending answer with mixed feelings himself.

“Applejack had told me over dinner that you're in quite a predicament.” Big Mac completely avoided the question posed to him as he leaned over and started rummaging through his saddle bag. “Eat up. It was Applejack and Apple Bloom who saved some of their meal so you could eat.” Big Mac explained with out a hint of emotional attachment or intent of a verbal attack.

Uriel sat back suddenly now feeling a large pain of guilt. The mares saved some of their own food so he could eat tonight just didn't sit right with him. Looking down on the full plate of food he could tell they would have barely anything left for themselves. The Alicorn raised his vision again to see that not only did Big Mac have a wooden pipe in his mouth but had just blown out a large puff of smoke that slowly dissipated.

“What?” Big Mac spoke with smoke blowing out of his nostrils. “Is our food not good enough for you?” the red stallion asked keeping a even tone which Uriel was more shocked at.

“I can't accept your food knowing the girls are going to bed hungry.” Uriel simply said as he mentally punched himself in the stomach and slid the plate towards Big Mac. The Alicorn could only watch the earth pony as he blew smoke out one last time before dumping the ashes onto the wooden floor and stomping on them with his fore hoof. Uriel only watched silently as Big Mac gathered both his saddle bag and the plate of food.

“You'll be working for your food tomorrow.” the large earth stallion said before shutting the barn door behind him and made his way back to the family house leaving a hungry and confused Uriel. Stepping inside and placing his saddle bag down he soon found himself under the glare of AJ but the crimson stallion showed no surprise on his face.

“Where'd ya go with yer dinner Big Mac? Did you go and try to intimidate Uriel into leaving?” Applejack asked with slight more aggression then she realized. She had watched him for the entire dinner as she explained what happened since she left for Canterlot. The red stallion had lost any anger in his expression after Uriel left and simply sat at the table in normal silence. After everyone ate he simply got up and grabbed his still full plate of food. AJ couldn't help but think something was up with her older brother.

“Eenope.” Big Mac simply replied as the pony went to the table and began munching on his dinner.

AJ stood dumbstruck for a moment as the dinning room was quiet between them. She knew her brother better then anyone and being angry or outspoken was never one of his strong suits. Heck, AJ was still slightly surprised at his outburst when she found them back home unexpectedly early from their trip to visit cousin Braeburn. Giving up on trying to understand the red stallion she simply rolled her eyes and went to check on Apple Bloom.

Big Mac simply sat at the table until he heard the hoof steps of his younger sister going upstairs. Knowing he was alone he could finally slouch his body slightly and let out a deep sigh he had been holding in.

“You'd have done yer Daddy proud today Big Mac.” A old voice said from the doorway that lead into the kitchen. Big Mac turned his surprised head to see Granny Smith holding a soft smile on her face. “My husband put the same fear into your Dad when he started showing interest into your Mom. The poor colt was scared witless but never gave up on that mare.”

Big Mac could only return the same smile as he gazed back down at his food. “Ah just wish he was still here to have the honours himself. Ah still remember when Applejack was born that he'd be practising his angry look.” the red stallion gave a small chuckle as he remembered his father fondly. “Do you think AJ actually likes that pony? Ah know she's one of the most honest ponies ah know but she's never really had a coltfriend before.” Big Mac turned his head to the corner of the room where Granny Smith had started to rock in her chair.

Granny let out a soft hum as she thought about the question. “Love is a difficult thing ta understand considering it has too many forms. Ah guess we just wait an' see what happens youngin'.” The old mare simply suggested as she began to rock in her chair with her eyes shut. “Now what about your love life?” She asked with a snicker as she opened one eye to see a shocked Big Mac.

Apple Bloom sat at her window as she gazed at the barn where the eaves drop window was open and a white Alicorn head had been laying close to the edge. Hearing her brother get angry like that scared her slightly as she was used to Big Mac being one of the most soft spoken ponies in Ponyville.

“What are ya doing little miss?” A voice said behind the small filly as she turned to see a grinning Applejack. “Shouldn't you be in bed? Ya got school in the mornin' ya know.” AJ said as she walked over to her younger sister to see what she had been looking at. She instantly spotted the white coat that belonged to none other then Uriel. Applejack couldn't help but let a soft smile escape unknowingly that a small filly was watching her.

“Do you like Uriel?” Apple Bloom asked as she witnessed AJ's cheeks change a few tints of red.

“We're just friends sugar cube.” the hat wearing pony responded as she quickly beat back any embarrassment. “Why do y'all keep asking them silly questions any how?” Applejack shot back her own question as everypony was starting to suggest that since she was now better friends with a stallion that wasn't related with her that it was some sort of romantic involvement.

“Well for starters, your only friends are the girls in town and besides that your working on the farm.” Apple Bloom started to explain her reasoning until AJ hastily jumped in.

“So ah'm busy on the farm and don't have time to chase down colts like Rarity, what of it?” Applejack defended herself as she gazed down at her younger sister who didn't look too impressed with her retort.

“And whenever Uriel is involved you always seem to have a smile on your face. You look happy that's fer sure.” Apple Bloom simply explained her observation as she leaned out the window and shouted at the top of her lungs “Good night Uriel!” Apple Bloom waved . The two Apples watched as Uriel's head raised at the voice and he simply waved back at the two.

After tucking in Apple Bloom and returning to her own bed Applejack knew she had a few things to think about. It wasn't like her mind was going to let her sleep anyways as she remembered Uriel's apology while siting under the apple tree quite clearly.

Uriel rolled in his bed with some hay hanging out of his mouth as he gazed out the window to see the sun still had yet to rise but it was defiantly on it's way. He stretched his forelegs as he flapped his wings and landed outside the barn with a soft landing. Gazing at the Apple family house he noticed it was dark and quiet which he took as the cue that he was the only one up.

This only meant more free time for him as he let loose a large grin and flapped his wings. The gusting winds built up as the Alicorn began to gain altitude. As both the barn and house shrank below him did he lean downward into a dive where he angled his body and wings to use the falling momentum to pull off a clumsy turn. He knew he probably looked more like a fool then an actual aerial god but who was there to watch him? This was his time to release some tension after everything that happened to him recently!

Big Mac had simply just watched the whole thing from his window. From take off to nose dive he had watched without uttering a single word. The white pony simply did a barrel roll in the air as the large wings flapped harder to gain speed and altitude. The red stallion just continued to watch until he heard a creak from behind him. Turning to find his younger sister Applejack there he noticed a weird expression on her face.

“Is that who ah think it is outside?” AJ simply asked with a defeated sigh. Big Mac gave her a weird look but judging on yesterday's tale involving flight he wasn't surprised.

“Eeyup.” Big Mac calmly replied in his usual tone as he turned back to his window to watch another flip.

“Ah thought that darn colt knew to keep his plot on the ground this time!” AJ said with frustration as she walked up beside her brother to witness another dive bomb but to their shock he never deployed his wings. The two earth ponies eyes went wide as the white pony was dangerously close to the ground. “Uriel!” They both shouted in panic only to find that the pony deployed his wings in the last second to gain just mere meters of breathing room that could have been a large splatter on the ground. With a breath of relief shared by the two siblings they watched as the white Alicorn flew up to the window sill and began to hover.

“Good morning you two.” He said with a smile unknowing what was coming his way. A hoof smacked him over the head as AJ leaned out the window with a red stallion trying desperately to stop the mare. “What was that for?” Uriel asked in pain as he retreated from the window and rubbed the side of his face that ached.

“Ya scared the living daylight's outta me!” Applejack replied as Big Macintosh was finally able to pull her back in. “Now come by the barn. We have a long day ahead of us.” She simply ordered the hovering pony who stayed farther away from the window then he was moments ago. AJ then left the two stallions as she made her own way to the barn.

“Is she always like that?” Uriel asked towards the quiet Big Mac who gave a small chuckle.

“Eenope.”

The white Alicorn crumpled to the ground as he panted heavily. The amount of cart's he had been hauling for Applejack was almost insane. He wasn't sure if it was torture or AJ's own way to make him suffer for scaring her earlier. There was a shining light however that had picked him off his weary feet for he had heard words that made him want to do barrel rolls.

“Breakfast time every pony!”

Uriel gathered with the rest of the Apple family as the large breakfast was displayed before his eyes. It may have just been hay and assorted other greens but he could only see gold. Apple Bloom only laughed as she watched Uriel scarf down his fair share quicker then most. Applejack could only shake her head with a small smile before joining in with her younger sister in laughter.

“Apple Bloom!” a shout was heard outside as the young filly that was sitting a moment ago beside Uriel had jumped up with a large smile.

“Ah'm coming girls!” She quickly grabbed her own small saddle bags and made for the door.

“Take Big Mac with you dearie!” Granny Smith said as the young Apple filly stopped in her tracks. She turned her head with a pouting face.

“Ah'm sorry Granny but Ah'm busy in the north field.” Big Mac said as he helped clear the table.

“I'll take her to school.”

Everyone turned their head to see the Alicorn raised a hoof as a volunteer. By the weird looks he received however it seemed like some sort of far fetch idea. Granny gave a look towards Applejack but then smiled as an idea filled her head.

“Sure then sweetie cheeks. Make sure ya come right back though ya hear?” She ordered at the Alicorn who gave her a crisp salute back.

“This is going to be awesome! Everyone will be so jealous that ah have a royal escort to walk me to school!” Apple Bloom hopped out of the front door as she wore a large smile across her face. It was at that moment that he witnessed two more fillies who wore equally large smiles until they saw the large pony before them. “Don't worry girls! Uriel, this is Scootaloo and Sweetie Bell, my best friends.” the Apple filly explained as the two small fillies recovered from their bow to royalty.

The white pony could only smile as he began to walk behind the girls until Applejack was soon walking beside him. “I thought you were doing chores with Big Mac?” Uriel asked raising one eyebrow in curiosity but never lost pace behind the fillies who were eagerly chatting away about some crusade.

“And let ya be alone? Not on your life sugar cube.” AJ said as she nudged sideways to bump into the larger pony beside her. “Besides, Princess Celestia had told me that ah have ta keep two eyes on you at all times. You know you've been a heck of a hoof full since coming here right?” She stated as the three fillies were now more then a few steps away from the two older ponies.

“Yeah about that.” Uriel said as he stretched out a wing and wrapped it around Applejack like the night before.

“Hey now!” She said in shock as she jumped left to escape his wing but not quick enough to escape his chuckle. “Are ya crazy? What if some pony saw that?” She said stamping her foreleg down in protest.

“Aw, is poor Applejack embarrassed to be caught in my embrace?” Uriel mocked her as he continued to walk after the fillies. “Besides, you didn't seem to mind being close to me while under the moonlight.” Uriel mocked her again as he added some laughter this time.

AJ only huffed as she ran to catch up with the stallion. “Last night was nothing but a friendly gesture! It was slightly chilly out!” Applejack protested as she turned her head to look away. She absolutely refused to let Uriel see any shade of red on her face.

“So it was just a friendly gesture?” Uriel asked but any hint of previous mockery or laughter had died away. His voice carried a much more serious tone to it that made Applejack turn to see his eyes had also lost that glint of happiness he had moments ago.

The two ponies walked together for a moment in awkward quiet as Applejack tried to come up with a reply. It was her honest nature that wanted her to say that maybe friendly wouldn't be the best to describe the events from last night. She knew her heart lifted when she watched Uriel but knew better then to reveal anything. He was human and she was a pony. Simple facts were her only defence and that's what she planned to use. “Yes Uriel. Ah also plan to help you get back home as any good friend would.” She tried her best to explain along with her best shot to cheer him up.

Uriel only turned his head and gave her a smile but he knew his heart wasn't in it. It was like a fish hook was trying to tug Uriel in a different direction. He wanted to be human again but he felt as if he was leaving something important behind if he did depart Equestria for good. It was shocking to admit it but he had already made more friends in a few days then he had in years back on earth. Everything about Ponyville and it's inhabitants just seemed so inviting to his conscious.

Applejack was feeling the schism inside as she read Uriel's smile like a book. She turned her head to the fillies who simply waited for the two accompanying pony's that seemed to fall behind a considerable distance. AJ could only thank the young crusaders in her thoughts for the possible distraction of their talk.

“Are you two having a lovers spat?” Scootaloo asked with a turned head of curiosity. The other crusaders simply let a big grin out as they watched both older ponies change a few shades of red in embarrassment.

“Ah told you Apple Bloom. We're just friends!” AJ defended herself as she tried her hardest to fight the back stabbing of her cheeks. Applejack swore to herself that if she heard one more thing about her in love with the pony standing close to her side she would go berserk.

“Actually, we were just discussing our next date location.”

AJ turned her head in shock as she let her jaw drop. Uriel stood strong with a small smile on his face and half closed eyes staring at AJ as if love struck. The orange earth pony could only stand dumb struck and lost for words as Uriel's hoof touched the bottom of her mouth to close it.

Three squeals erupted from the fillies as they jumped in excitement. They made a mad dash towards the school house that was beyond the next ridge. Their cries filled the air as Uriel only chuckled with amusement until he turned his head to see Applejack glaring him down.

“Now what in the blue blazes was that about?” She practically shouted at the Alicorn who kept the dreamy gaze upon the mare. Instead of fear or cowering he simply chuckled again before trotting after the girls who almost reached the school. AJ was far from done however as she quickly caught up “Word's gonna spread all across Ponyville now that Ah'm dating some fancy pants Prince from Canterlot!”

“I'm hurt Applejack!” Uriel put one of his forehoofs to his gut as he let his tongue hang out. “That blow has shattered thy heart in tiny pieces. Oh woo is me for thy girlfriend has broke my spirit and soul!” Uriel finished as he posed a dramatic pose of internal pain, a hoof draped over his eyes.

“Any more fancy word's from ya an' Ah'll give ya a smackin'” Applejack warned as she tipped her head his way with a intense gaze. She couldn't believe how Uriel could just say something like that out into the open. “Now can ya please be explaining yerself?” AJ pleaded as Uriel broke out of his dramatic pose.

Uriel just let out a deep sigh before looking at Applejack with a softer expression “I was thinking about what you said a few moments ago.” Uriel said as he began to walk towards the school with AJ right beside him. “When Princess Celestia finds that spell and I'm sent home I won't be able to see any of you again. I didn't really notice at first but I've made more friends here then I ever thought possible.” Uriel tried to explain his thoughts while an attentive Applejack just listened. “So I decided to have some fun with you ponies while I still have a chance too. That includes maybe getting to know some of you more then others.” He gave her a wink which was responded with a surprised cough as if AJ had something caught in her throat.

“Applejack! Uriel!” a voice shouted out that broke the two from their conversation to look at a smiling Cheerilee and none other then Rarity. “I've heard from some chatty little fillies that a certain cowpony has lassoed herself a bed warmer.” Rarity teased as she hide a chuckle behind one of her hoofs. Cheerilee just smiled before taking a step forward “I think you two make a lovely young couple. It wouldn't hurt to have role models like you in Ponyville.”

“Oh and to think of all of us here in Ponyville, Applejack is to become the Princess!” Rarity said as she only laughed more upon the realization.

Applejack just stood stunned with her hoofs cemented to the ground. Her worst fears have been confirmed as she turned her shocked expression to Uriel who only winked at her for support. Was no pony on her side today?

“Ok Rarity, before Applejack explodes from embarrassment maybe we should get back to the farm.” Uriel put up his hoof with a soft smile trying to defend AJ. “It was nice seeing you again Miss Cheerilee. We will be back later to pick up Apple Bloom.” Uriel turned his attention to the soft spoken teacher as the three fillies came up with a crowd behind them.

Applejack just watched Uriel as he interacted with the class. Snips and Snails sat under the shade of two massive white wings spread out above them. The three Crusaders sat on one wing while more sat on the other. Each small filly and colt had a large smile on their face as they asked what seemed like a rapid fire questionnaire. The orange earth pony only let a soft smile grace her face as she continued to silently watch unbeknownst to her the a certain fashion pony had taken notice.

“So when exactly did you turn on your charm dear?” Rarity asked in a quiet tone so only Applejack could hear.

The farm pony snapped out of her gaze for a moment as she looked to her side. “We are not together Rarity. He's just yankin' yer leg.” AJ explained calmly as the two watched the Alicorn chase some of the children around the playground. “Don't get me wrong Rarity, he's a nice guy and easy on the eyes if ya get mah meaning but he's still.”

“Human?” Rarity finished Applejack's explanation as the Earth pony gave a nod in agreement. Rarity was quiet for a moment as she thought of the situation her friend was in. “It's strange don't you think?” Rarity said with a small smile as she nodded her head towards Uriel. “For a pony who only wants to return to his own home he seems quite happy right here. Now I'm not one to try and convince anypony against their own will to stay here but maybe it's for the best. Perhaps Uriel is actually Princess Celestia's son?” Rarity suggested with her banter that AJ was more then used too.

The farm pony only stood there and nodded her head as she thought deeply on the conversation. Could she actually tare away Uriel from the home he wants to return to just for her selfish reasons? Her head hung slightly lower as she felt deep guilt just thinking about such an option to keep a friend with her. Was Uriel actually getting that close to her without her noticing?

“Well maybe we can find out more tonight at the party!” Rarity said with cheer as the idea popped into her head.

“Wait, what par.” AJ tried to asked with confusion until she had a face full of confetti.

“Yippee!” A loud shout erupted as Applejack suddenly realized that it could only mean one pony. “Your invited to a great party! Today we welcome a very special guest. Uriel is to be our special visitor that we all enjoy! So please come and enjoy the treats as every pony does suggest! All we ask is that you don't bring your corduroys!” Pinkie Pie stood breathing heavily after her song introduction.

“Corduroys?” Uriel asked as he joined the mares conversation, the class finally herded back into the school house by Miss Cheerilee.

“Oh! Applejack here wore thee worst pair of.” Rarity tried to explain until a orange hoof covered her mouth.

“Shush you.” AJ said more as a plea then anything as she turned to Pinkie Pie who hopped in place with excitement. “Now what's this here about a party fer Uriel?” AJ asked as Uriel now stood beside her.

“It's simple you silly filly!” Pinkie said as she finally managed to stand still for an explanation. “Since the last party didn't end with such a great note I decided that a much larger party was needed!” the excited mare explained which received smiles from everypony except AJ.

“Ah'm a terribly sorry Pinkie Pie but ah still have plenty of chores to do. There's no way ah can fit both in even with Uriel's help.” she explained as the mare shared a frown with Uriel.

“We figured you'd say that Applejack!” a new voice shouted as Twilight Sparkle approached followed by smiling Pegasai. “I had a feeling you would be busy today so I gathered the girls together and we all cleared our schedule to help you out.” Twilight explained as she was flanked by the rest of the mares.

AJ could only smile at the generosity of her best friends. Uriel stood tall beside her and nodded his head with a grin. “Well thank ya kindly girls. Ah hope yer ready though, there's a lot of hard work ahead of us!”

Although Rarity would complain now and again due to the minimal amount of dirt that approached her spotless white coat the group managed to finish the chores at record time. Uriel even managed to get some practice in flying control as he helped stack the storage crates behind the farm. He beamed with pride as even Rainbow Dash gave him a nod of approval.

“Thanks for everything. We sure needed it after some ponies lazy day of flying and getting inta trouble.” Big Macintosh thanked the mares until he gave Uriel a stern look which made the Alicorn look off to the side with guilt. The red stallion simply left it at that as he began to walk back to the family house to get cleaned up.

“Thanks again girls. It sure did make mah life easier and to top it all off, we get to go to the party!” AJ said with a smile on her face. The earth pony gazed to her property and gave a whistle at everything they did.

“Well it was our pleasure. It wouldn't make a great welcome party especially if the guest of honour wasn't there!” Twilight chuckled at the idea of it. “It would also make Princess Celestia and Princess Luna happy as well to see you Uriel.” Twilight added with a smile until she watched Uriel's expression change.

“Oh.” Uriel simply said as he gazed to the girls who were now staring at him. “She's coming huh?” The white stallion simply asked as his tone easily conveyed his less then eager mood.

“Ok Uriel. Ah know Princess Celestia and you have not seen eye to eye. Heck! She may even be your mother!” AJ tried to explain and before Uriel could protest the possibility of the older royal mare being his mother AJ continued. “But the Princess is still trying ta help ya! Yer going to have to buck up and start showing her some proper manners or Celestia help me!” Applejack threw on her threatening voice as she took a hoofstep closer to the stallion that had backed away a step.

“Alright, alright.” Uriel gave in with a sigh as he witnessed a triumphant Applejack standing strong before him. “She's no mother to me though. I won't be stupid and deny some of the evidence before me that she may have given birth to me but I'll be damned if she was ever my mother. That boat has sailed long ago.” Uriel said as he reclaimed his own ground slightly. He just watched AJ nod which worked for him.

“Alright you two lovers, we will see you in a couple of hours!” Rarity called to the two ponies as the rest of the mares departed to prepare for the party.

“We're not lovers!”

The music blasted out of the speakers as a unicorn with sunglasses threw on another track for the ponies who danced nearby. It almost seemed like the entire town of Ponyville was invited as Pinkie Pie examined with cheer at all the smiles spread around. Vinyl Scratch had the music going and Sugar Cube Corner bakery had plenty of treats assorted out to nearby tables. When the Mayor had heard that a welcoming party was being thrown for Uriel and that both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna were invited that she let Pinkie have rights to throw the party at the town square. There was something missing however but she couldn't quite place her hoof on it.

“Where's Uriel?” Rainbow Dash asked as she turned her head left and right unable to spot the larger white Alicorn.

“Or Applejack for that matter!” Spike mentioned as the group of friends gathered. “Oh wait I see them now!” The small purple dragon pointed out as they witnessed the two walking together. They watched as the two shared a laugh before joining the group.

“I'm sorry if we're a bit late!” Uriel shouted as Applejack and he joined the circle.

“Oh was something or somepony should I say, keeping you busy?” Rarity asked although her mischievous gaze centred onto AJ.

“Very funny. We just lost track of time after taking Wiona out for a walk.” Applejack explained with ease as she gave Rarity a playful turn of her head. Looking around she failed to notice two of the more special guest “Have the Princesses not arrived yet?” AJ simply asked.

Twilight shook her head but still held onto a smile. “They should be arriving shortly however so maybe we should introduce you to everyone in Ponyville!” Twilight suggested as she pointed to the nearest group of chatting ponies.

“Thanks but I'm not much of a conversationalist. I rather just party a bit with you ponies before heading home for the night.” Uriel refused politely with a hoof waving the idea away. He noticed however that maybe he never had any option as Pinkie Pie had suddenly gathered many ponies to them. “This is Thunderlane, Berry Punch, Ditzy Doo, Lyra, Bon Bon...” Pinkie went on and on as she explained each and every ponies name. Uriel gazed over to the mares for assistance but only got snickers and laughter for support.

“Oh, poor Uriel.” Fluttershy said as she examined the rapid fire introduction of every pony in Ponyville.

“He's doing pretty good for a non-conversationalist!” Twilight said as she let out another snicker of laughter. “Which reminds me, I've been hearing a rumour of a certain young couple in Ponyville.” Twilight turned her head towards Applejack who suddenly went rigid.

How could she have forgotten! All of Ponyville has probably heard of her love rumour for Uriel. “Ah ain't dating that pony!” AJ defended herself knowing that all of her friends were looking at her.

“I thought you two were closer then that. I'm sorry for thinking wrongly.” Fluttershy quickly apologized as she seemed to sink from view before Rainbow denied her from backing up anymore.

“Wait one second Applejack.” Twilight asked calmly trying to defuse the situation. The lavender unicorn could tell that AJ had been previously been poked at for the same thing. “Do you like being around Uriel for company?” Twilight asked as the rest of the mares listened for an answer.

“Why of course ah do!” Applejack replied without hesitation.

“Does your family mind him being around or perhaps dislike him?” Twilight quickly asked her other question.

“Well Big Mac is a little defensive but Granny and Apple Bloom seem to like him enough.” AJ said after a moment of thinking.

“So your brother is getting protective over his little sister? Check.” Rarity said with an affirming nod.

“Ok last question Applejack!” Twilight said as the mares were now crowding more closely then AJ then she remembered. “Do you find Uriel attractive?”

“Well, um. Can ah call a friend?” AJ asked with a sheepish smile but was only replied with silence and eager faces for a real reason. Applejack only huffed through her nostrils before whispering something under the music.

“Speak up darling!” Rarity asked as the ponies took a step closer to hear.

“He's cute alright! There, ah said it! Uriel is darn cute!” Applejack shouted as she watched her friends beam with smiles. Maybe she needed other friends that were more silent like apple trees.

Twilight nodded to Rarity then to the two pegasai before looking back to AJ. “Applejack, we think you found prime coltfriend material.” Twilight explained quite bluntly as the other mares nodded their heads in agreement.

“Y'all are crazy!” Applejack dismissed the idea completely without letting her mind actually have a chance of thinking about it. “He ain't prime material at all! Have you seen his Apple buckin' skills?” AJ asked as if the mares really cared.

“His apple bucking skills?” Rainbow Dash asked with a unbelieving look. “That's all you got to say to that? I think you need to get your head out of the tree's and maybe see the stallion beside you.” Dash said as she pointed to the frantic white stallion trying to keep up with the sudden flow of mass ponies. “Ever since you two found each other in the caves you've been stuck together like goo. Never once did you think that maybe, just maybe you would want that as a coltfriend?” Rainbow asked as Twilight and Rarity nodded their head. They could see AJ was crumbling under their assault as the farm pony turned to see Uriel.

“It wouldn't work out anyway girls. He ain't from our world and wouldn't want to stay just for me. Heck, we hardly know each other!” Applejack said with defeat as she gazed towards Uriel. She didn't even noticed her friends gather around her until hoofs were placed on her back. “Ah'm asking as a friend girls. Can we just pretend we never had this conversation?” AJ pleaded and as she watched her friends look at each other they nodded with saddened faces.

“Phew! For a small place their sure is plenty of ponies.” Uriel said as he rejoined the group with a bouncing Pinkie Pie in tow. “What's wrong?” Uriel asked as he noticed the saddened looks shared amongst the group.

“Oh nothing darling!” Rarity covered for her friends as she placed on a large smile. “Let's get you something to drink!” she suggested as she lead Uriel away. The rest of the group breathed a sigh of relief until they heard a trumpet over the music that quickly died.

“The Princesses are here!” Twilight said with glee as she quickly spotted the carriage that was coming in for a landing outside of the partying groups. Everypony began to gather as the white carriage came to a stop and two tall Alicorns stepped down to a bowing crowd.

Uriel only watched from behind his group of friends with mixed feelings. He watched as the two princesses simply greeted everyone and did what he expected of royalty. Even though Uriel stood taller then most of the ponies in Ponyville he felt himself try to sink away. He lowered his head and silently walked away to the refreshment stand thankful that the noise of the crowd hid his hoof steps.

“You cannot hide from your Auntie that easily.” a familiar voice spoke as Uriel let out a sigh turning to see Princess Luna. The moon mare used her magic to levitate a cup of punch before her as she turned to see Celestia still thanking the crowd for inviting them. “How are you doing here in Ponyville? I have heard from a few scrolls that some pony has been getting in some trouble.” Luna chuckled before sipping on her fruit punch.

Uriel chuckled himself as he remembered his slight mishaps. “I've been trying to adapt. Everyone here is really friendly and accommodating. I even have my own small room in a barn.” Uriel said followed by another small chuckle.

“A barn?” Luna asked with surprise. “Surely we could pay to have you sleeping in at the nearby Inn!” Luna stated as she almost found it outrageous that her own nephew was staying in a barn.

“No, no.” Uriel rejected the offer easily as he watched Princess Celestia approach. “I think Big Macintosh thinks I'm trying to shack up with Applejack. It would explain him getting protective of his little sister.”

“And are you interested in Applejack?” Luna asked as her curious nature suddenly peaked, gossip was something she especially enjoyed.

“She's fun to be around and as far as ponies go, she's pretty.” Uriel admitted which made Luna smile with delight at seeing her nephew already eyeing up the local mares. “I am however still a human. I've had one night stands with a girl or two and neither turned out for the best back on my own world. I don't want to start something with her and end up just ditching.” Uriel explained as his expression turned to slight sadness.

“That's understandable.” Luna simply said with a worried face. “You are still wanting to return to your Earth then? Would you not even consider staying here?” the dark coated Alicorn asked as she turned her head to look at Uriel who was deep in thought.

“Why would I stay?” Uriel asked but by his tone and lost look in his eye Luna honestly thought that his question was directed at himself.

“Look around you. You've made a group friends and it looks like all of Ponyville seems to like your company.” Luna tried to explain as she pointed out the groups of happy ponies chatting to each other. “You have a Mother and Aunt who love you as family and possibly a special somepony out there who may be interested in you.” she continued with a large grin and a slight nudge with her side as the two slightly chuckled.

“Those are all pretty good reasons I suppose.” Uriel seemed to agree but he knew of his responsibility Earth-bound. “However, my human father still needs me. Our family has had a troubled past and I feel like I'm the last thing he has thanks to Discord.” Uriel growled with anger as he remembered the chaotic creature with utter hate.

“In the end, the decision is entirely yours Uriel. My only advice is to do what you think is right.” Luna gave a wink and a warming smile before looking to her sister. “Greetings sister. It seems you had quite a welcoming party to attend too.” Luna greeted along with a sly smile knowing full well that she had ditched the crowd to her older sister to contend with.

“Yes dear sister. Remind me to give you the rest of the paper work when we get back home.” Celestia replied with an equal smile that made Luna dip her head in a pout.

“Hello again Princess.” Uriel spoke up calmly as he could. The two white Alicorns stood there for a silent moment before Celestia's smile had widened.

“It's good to see you again Uriel. I trust that Ponyville has been more then accommodating to your needs?” Celestia asked even though she knew much from the letters sent by her faithful student Twilight Sparkle. Uriel nodded in agreement as Celestia kept her smile “Well that's great to hear. I also have something for you that you may be interested in.” Celestia said as her horn glowed dimly which levitated a rolled up scroll for all three Alicorns to see.

“Is that?” Uriel stammered as he watched the floating paper intensely. His heart had stopped for a moment as he tried to comprehend the sudden realization.

“It is the spell to transport you back to your planet.” Celestia declared as her smile had disappeared. Luna watched sadly as she noticed Uriel didn't even catch his own mother's sadness. “It is a one way teleport and once your there it will be almost impossible to find you again.” Celestia tried to explain to Uriel.

The stallion stood there for a moment thinking of going back home. It was strange that first coming to this strange land all he wanted to do was leave. Now he has made friends and although it may grind his gears, family as well. There was only one thing from keeping him from staying however. “If I go, will Discord be able to find me again?” Uriel asked as he gazed up to see a saddened Celestia. It shocked him for a moment to see her sad but it dawned on him what this meant.

“If my suspicions are correct then yes he will.” Celestia answered honestly as she gazed into the youngest Alicorn's eyes.

Uriel felt the familiar poke in his chest as he felt a warming sensation flow through his very soul. He had a responsibility still left here in Equestria. Discord will pay for every innocent pony and human that his chaotic ways have touched. “Thank you Princess but I won't be needing that just yet.” Uriel said with a grin that you couldn't help but to smile with.

Luna and Celestia suddenly held wide smiles on as they heard the great news. Uriel eyes went in shock as he felt the two older mares embrace him in a tight hug. It was something unexpected yet he could feel how much the two Princesses actually cared. It was also the moment he caught a group of ponies watching from the side with smiles. “Ok! Ok!” Uriel tried to pry away but then he resorted to his secret weapon. “Please, Auntie? Mom?”

The two Princesses ears perked up as they suddenly froze in spot. A white stallion wriggling out of their grasps with a breath of relief. “Did you just say?” Celestia turned with disbelief playing across her face.

“Yes I did.” Uriel said along with a roll of his eyes. “Don't think too much of it.” he simply putted in even though by the looks of the crying Alicorn he was too late. Again the stallion was scooped up in a hug but was soon found that it became a group hug as Pinkie Pie jumped in eagerly along with Luna. He couldn't help but roll his eyes and try to barf.

“Come! Let us party!” Luna suggested with a large smile as she whisked away the young Alicorn to play a few games that were set up.

Applejack simply laughed as she witnessed Uriel try to toss bean bags into different baskets with point labels. It was when she felt a very gentle tap on her side that she turned around to see Fluttershy. “Is everything alright Flutter?” the farm pony asked.

“I know you wanted to drop the conversation Applejack but I wanted to say something but couldn't think of the right words.” Fluttershy tried to explain loud enough over the music. “I think if you really like Uriel then you should go for it. It doesn't matter about your appearance but more on your feelings. If he leaves Equestria forever then he will never know your feelings.” Fluttershy tried her best smile as AJ took in everything she had said.

Applejack knew Fluttershy wasn't outspoken or very outgoing but her gentle tone and soft eyes seemed to always grab a pony's attention. AJ then turned to look at Uriel who jumped in place as he won a game against a pouting Rainbow Dash. AJ should have known better about her animal loving friend Fluttershy. That soft pony apparently could see through any charade a friend tried to put up. “Ya know what? Ah think ah jus' might! Thank ya kindly Flutter!” AJ suddenly wore a large bright smile and began to stand taller then she ever remembered being. A bout of new confidence running through her system as she moved through the crowd and swung her rear around to give the cheering Uriel a push to the side. “Don' get too cocky ya hear. This pony is about to kick yer flank to the curb!” Applejack exclaimed as she tossed a bean sack high into the air and as she turned sharply she kicked out with her two rear legs. The bean sack soared for a few moments before landing easily inside the farthest basket that gave her a hundred points.

Uriel's mouth just dropped as he witnessed something he couldn't do with all his might. The crowd cheered and roared behind them as they chanted for Applejack, even the two Princesses cheered but for Uriel to challenge her. The night went on as the moon moved across the sky and ponies began to depart knowing that another day was to be prepared for. Uriel waved along with the others as they watched the royal carriage disappear towards Canterlot castle. As every pony bid each of their friends good night they departed back to their homes.

Of course Applejack and Uriel had a slightly longer walk then the rest as the two kept each other company. Between jokes and stories the two simply laughed and smiled as the moonlight brightened the dirt path before them. It was a peaceful night that Uriel was becoming a very large fan of. The quiet was a welcoming change from the bustling of cars or sirens through the night. The company wasn't too shabby either as he turned his gaze down to a peaceful Applejack. It was then that the stallion thought of trying a old trick as he extended a wing and slowly wrapped around the farm pony beside him. It was to his surprise however that she simply moved closer until they walked side by side, white coat to orange. Her neck and head lightly resting on his as he smiled deeply.

The rest of the walk back to the farm house was nothing but simple bliss as the two enjoyed the comfortable silence. With the farmhouse in view Uriel simply removed his wing from the embrace as the two separated slightly. “If Big Macintosh witnessed that he'd really kick my flank to the curb.” Uriel joked as Applejack tried to stifle her own laughter. The white Alicorn walked the earth pony up to the house and before opening the door she turned to see Uriel having a dreamy look on him. “I had a fun night Applejack.”

“Same here Sugar Cube.” AJ agreed as she nodded her head and smiled softly. They looked at each other for a moment before AJ turned to open her door to go to bed. That was until she felt a hoof turn her head back to look at Uriel.

The same Uriel who had placed his lips onto hers.

Two minds seemed to melt as they stood there for a moment. Both pair of eyes were closed and neither ponies dared move. It was AJ however that broke the kiss and took a step back with a dreamy smile before trying to stumble for something to say. “Thanks fer the night Sugar Cube.” AJ said with calmness before entering her house and closing the door behind her. It was when Uriel could no longer see her that she leaned against the wall. Her hoof steps seemed to bounce as she made her way to her bedroom, the taste of Alicorn still on her lips.

“Breach!”

Two ponies clad in dark armour burst through the door with swords held tightly in their mouth. It was another deserted room in the small hive that their team had located in the night.

“Room clear! Exfil!” The sergeant shouted as every pony exited the hive quickly. The group sneaked back into their forest hideout where a white Unicorn waited with binoculars and a security team. “All clear. Another deserted hive sir.”

Shining Armour simply cursed as he watched the demolitions team enter the hive to destroy it, effectively preventing any changeling to hide there again. It had been the third hive this night alone and it was seeming like a wild goose chase. “Contact two-two Bravo. We're regrouping the platoon and planning our next step.” Shining Armour ordered as a unicorn pony nodded his head and gave a quick salute before sending a magical message through teleportation.

“Sir, surely this is just a simple search and destroy mission?” the night stallion asked as he was none other then one of Luna's most trusted guardsmen.

“I'm not sure Night Wail. This comes from the very top of the branch. Princess Celestia has this mission stamped for secrecy which could only mean no bull crap.” Shining Armour explained just as he heard the warning yell and a large explosion. Large clouds of dirt quickly escaped the mouth of the hive entrance which signaled a successful destroyed hive.

“Sir!” The messenger unicorn came up with a quick salute before handing the paper to the leading officer. “It was the only thing I got back from two-two Bravo.”

Shining Armour read it out loud with a growl.

“I spy with my dastardly eye,” Shining Armour paused for a moment before crumbling up the page. “Chaos.”

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