Trouble in Canterlot
“Nebula? What’s wrong?” Spike asked as he walked alongside the stallion, who walked towards the door of Sugarcube Corner.
“I… have to go to Canterlot.” Skystrike sighed.
“Oh, cool!” Spike threw up his hands. “But… you seem upset about it?”
“Yeah… I don’t really like going.” Skystrike explained. “Too many bad memories…” He turned to pat the baby dragon in the back. “Don’t worry your head over it. I’ll be gone a few days, so make sure to take care of yourself.”
And with that, he pushed open the door, making his way home. On arrival, he got his rucksack and filled it with everything he needed. Toiletries, a blanket, food, money, everything he’d need for a long journey. But then he realized, he wasn’t going to be gone for long… but better safe than sorry.
Cleaning his house before he left, did a once over before grabbing his bag and walking to the train station. He was a bit surprised at how many were there to meet him. “Nebula!” Spike pointed to him as he tugged on Twilight’s tail.
“Hey.” Skystrike stopped in front of them on the train platform. “Figured you’d still be partying.”
“What, you think we’d let you leave without saying bye?” Pinkie crawled out of his backpack, making the pegasus jump.
“WHOA JESUS!” Skystrike snapped his head around.
“No, it’s Pinkie.” She pulled herself out. “But you were really going to leave without saying anything?”
“Eh, kinda.” Skystrike admitted. “Honestly, didn’t think you all cared that much.”
“Of course we care.” Applejack stated. “We’re your friends, aren’t we?”
Skystrike hesitated on answering for some reason. “...Yeah, yeah you are.”
Twilight spoke up. “What are you going to Canterlot for anyway?”
Skystrike visibly tensed up. “...The princesses want to see me… so that either means I’ve royally fumbled, I’m needed for a job, or they actually want to talk and I’m worrying for nothing… Any which way, I need to be cautious.”
“You know, you said you had a history with Princess Celestia.” Rainbow said. “...Can you tell us why? Or not yet?”
Skystrike sighed. “Let's say… her guard tried to deal with me on several occasions.” He rolled a shoulder. “Not exactly her fault each of those times, per say, but she knew. And now that she realizes I’m somepony she used to care about, she wants to try and make things right. But the inherent problem is she wants to try and make things right with who I was, rather than who I am.”
“Or…” Fluttershy jumped in. “Maybe you’ll get a reward or something for how you helped with Nightmare Moon?”
Skystrike hummed. “Maybe… To be honest, I’m more worried about who I might see there. No use in reopening old wounds. I’m just going to be there on business. I’ll be back in like, two days… three max.”
“You got everything you need?” Applejack asked.
“Mostly. I was promised food and housing during my stay.”
“I’d offer you some apples, but this was so sudden.”
Skystrike waved a hoof as he saw the train approach. “All good. I packed myself some food to eat on the ride.”
The train blew its whistle, signaling its arrival. Several ponies made their ways off the train, meeting some ponies waiting for them. Two Royal Guardsmen also made their ways off and spotted the armored pegasus, walking towards him. “Atlas Nebula.” One spoke. “We are to make sure you are escorted safely to her royal highness Princess Celestia, and her royal highness Princess Luna.”
Skystrike turned to them. “...They sent escorts? Damn…” He threw his hooves up before turning back to his friends. “Well, guess things are serious. Make sure you all take care of yourselves. Might be gone longer than I thought.” Skystrike then walked up to Rainbow Dash. “And RD?” She looked up at him. “Things will get better.”
“I-... ok? Thanks?” She gave a confused look.
Skystrike nodded before turning around and walking past the two guards and onto the train.
The ride to Canterlot was uneventful. The guards weren’t a fan of talking, or they weren’t a fan of him. Didn’t blame them, he didn’t care. Though he wished that they stopped staring. He also didn’t trust them enough to fall asleep around them. Nor did they. After a long, long night, they arrived. Skystrike was fine, aside from jerking slightly at the blaring of the train whistle. The guards snapped at attention at it though, giving Skystrike a chuckle. The conductor walked down each train car, announcing that they’d arrive in ten minutes. Skystrike stood up and stretched before poking his head out of the window to see the approaching equestrian capital.
“So… genuine question, you two gonna be ok to walk? I’ve got some coffee if you want it.” Skystrike offered.
One of the guards drowsily looked at him. “...Seriously?” Skystrike nodded and reached into his bag, pulling out a tumbler and handing it to him.
The other guard protested. “Don’t trust that stallion, who knows what he put in it! You know what they say about him.”
Skystrike blinked. “...Ok, player two, you’re kinda stupid huh?”
“...Player two?”
“I didn’t know you two were coming. The letter I got didn’t specify anything, just that I had a ticket and to come immediately. Why would I put something in a drink I planned on having for myself that could harm me?”
The first guard looked at Skystrike, then to his coworker who shook his head. But the guard had to admit his logic checked out and took a sip, then a few gulps. “Ahh… thank you, Nebula. You aren’t as bad as I thought.”
“Well, thanks.” Skystrike nodded. “But what does the guard say about me? Sure we’ve had some run-ins, but I haven’t done anything for a while.”
The first guard huffed. “Honestly-”
“Private Sturdy, do not answer that.” The second guard pointed a hoof.
The first guard, Sturdy, sighed. “Yes sir…” And handed Skystrike back his tumbler. “Thank you, by the way.”
“No problem.” Skystrike took his tumbler and drank the rest. And just like that, he was reminded of one of the reasons why he didn’t join the guard… Too much red tape, too many rules to follow.
All three stood up as the train slowed to a stop, but one was worse off than the other two stallions. Skystrike made sure he had everything before stepping off the train. Another guard walked up to the three and saluted, this one a mare. “Corporal Iron, Private Sturdy, you are relieved of your current duties, and are to report back to the staff sergeant.”
The other two guards saluted back. “Yes, Sergeant Stardust!” They saluted before walking off.
Skystrike got a better look at the mare. She had an almost white, yet slightly yellow coat and a sky blue mane. Her armor stood out compared to a normal guard, her helmet being spartan-like that her hair hung down from, as well as a golden chestplate and back plate, covering her whole body save for her legs. The mare’s hooves were covered by golden shoes, going up to her ankles. Her rose eyes looked him up and down. “I see you arrived in good conditions, Sir Atlas Nebula.”
Skystrike nodded. “I have, though the escort wasn’t required… Your name was Stardust, right?”
“Yes, sir!” She saluted him.
“Just call me Nebula.”
“Yes, Sir Nebula!”
Skystrike face hooves. “Just Nebula. You don’t need to add sir.”
“Apologies, sir, I cannot do that as of now!” She held her salute. “I was told to treat you with the utmost respect, as if you were a prince! Princess Celestia’s orders!”
Skystrike sighed. Little did she know… “Alright then, guess I just need to deal with it. So, miss Stardust, what now?”
“I have been ordered to be your aid, sir, and have been assigned to you for the indefinite future.” Stardust put down her hoof. “I am to follow your commands as if they were Princess Celestia’s own. As of now, I am supposed to escort you to the Princesses!”
“Alright, but don’t worry about leading me. I know my way around… this city and the castle shouldn’t have changed that much over the years.” Skystrike began walking, Stardust following right at his left side. As the two walked through the capital, he realized the city indeed, barely changed. Skystrike looked around at the ponies walking by, each wearing formal clothing with their heads held high, ignoring most passerby. Some occasionally gave Skystrike a look before he returned the favor, making their heads snap back forward. He tried to make some small talk. “So, Stardust, what do you do for fun?”
“Whatever you find fun, sir!”
“...Ok, what do you do in your spare time?”
“I practice my swordsmanship, sir!”
Well, it was better than her first answer. “Cool. You’ll have to show me some time.” Then he thought. “By the way, you may have to sleep on the couch at my house for a while. I need to prepare the guest room when I get back.”
“Yes sir!”
Skystrike groaned as they kept walking. Soon enough, they crossed the moat that divided the castle from the city. Several royal guards stepped out of their way so they could enter the castle. The castle hallways were long, though shorter than he remembered… Then again, he was a child the last time he was here. Hopefully he wouldn’t see too many familiar faces.
Skystrike stopped in front of a set of doors to the throne room. The two guards beside it began pushing the doors open, revealing roughly a dozen unicorn guards inside, and the two princesses in front of him. The ceiling of the room was high above, large enough for him to fly around in easily, held up by a dozen pillars. Despite Celestia and Luna standing up and spreading their wings in greeting, all eyes were on him as he approached the throne.
Skystrike stopped a few yards from the throne at the stairs. “Yo.” He noticed the guards around him get visibly upset, and Stardust bowing next to him. “Oh, right.” He thought to himself. “Force of habit.”
“What are you waiting for?” A pegasus guard stomped a hoof. “Bow!”
Skystrike looked to the guard, then to Celestia and Luna, who seemed more interested in his response, rather than him actually bowing. Skystrike hit a thinking pose, tapping the tip of his wing against his chin. “Hmmm… You know, now that you mention it, nah.”
The troll in Skystrike inwardly smiled at their reactions. He did feel a little bad as Stardust tried to hide any form of relation to him. But what caught his attention was a gray unicorn with a silver mane and tail that stepped forward. He seemed important, as his armor was silver compared to the standard gold. “The princesses have invited you to meet them. Show some respect.”
“The respectful thing I did was show up, as I could’ve easily sent the letter back.” Skystrike said, looking at the unicorn. “It didn’t say I had to come, but I’m not that much of an asshole.”
“You dare!?” The unicorn got up in Skystrike’s face. “Do you have any idea who you’re speaking to!?”
“Who?” Skystrike began.
“I am General Magnus-”
“Asked.” Skystrike finished. A loud snicker was heard through the room. Though nopony checked the source of it, Skystrike could tell it came from Luna, who quickly straightened her face.
Magnus glared at the pegasus, who was holding in a laugh. “You are pushing the limits of my patience, pegasus.”
“...You know what, ignoring how you said that last part, why do you want my respect so bad? From what I can tell, you and the rest of the guards already have your own view of me.” Skystrike crossed his hooves. “Why should I care about your patience when most of you barely show any decency? In fact, why should I care when your preconceived notions won't change even if I did a complete 180?”
Magnus grit his teeth. “Bold of you to assume my opinion of you would change.”
“That was a rhetorical question, forehead. Figured as a general, you’d be smart enough to answer that… then again, if your patience ran so thin after a few words, I shouldn’t have given you that much credit.”
Luna breathed in through her nose and made a face, trying not to laugh, then coughed behind a hoof. Celestia turned to her sister, and the two shared a look before turning away from each other with the edges of their lips twitching.
“Well, I suppose from your track record, professionalism isn't to be expected.” Magnus sighed and pushed back his hair with a hoof. “Though I shouldn't have given you that much credit. After all, you are a bounty hunter. No wonder your ego is as swollen as that head of yours.” A smirk stretched across his face. “Though I see why you speak so big, after all, you abandoned your little group a few years ago, didn’t you?”
Skystrike had to admit, he tuned back in for that last part, and it did annoy him ever so slightly. But he didn’t show it. Instead he yawned. “Sorry, didn’t sleep on the train ride here, zoned out after you pushed back your hair like that hairline isn't receding.”
Stardust began to snicker, then slapped a hoof over her mouth as she tried her best not to laugh. “MMMF!”
“Stardust, as per what you said earlier, with my words weight as much as Celestia’s, I allow you to laugh.” Skystrike chuckled.
The mare could barely contain her laughter, sitting down and covering her mouth with both hooves, her rose eyes beginning to bulge out of her head as her ears went back. Even the princesses were trying their best to not laugh, both at what Skystrike said and Stardust’s reactions. A few of the guards around, still holding the same unmoving look, had the edges of their lips curling up.
Magnus grit his teeth. “Fine then, Nebula. This is going nowhere, so how about we settle this the old fashioned way.” Magnus took out a glove from his pocket. “I challenge you to a duel!” Skystrike caught the glove thrown at him. “When I win, you will bow before not only the princesses, but to me as well, and will make a public apology. On the off chance I lose, I will let this slide.”
The room fell silent waiting for Skystrike’s answer. “You sure about this? You do realize what’s at stake here right?” Skystrike looked at him, who began to open his mouth.
“Actually, Nebula, it’d be best if you explain, as if you accept, My sister and I will be overlooking this duel.” Celestia beat Magnus to it.
“Well, let's say I win.” Skystrike threw out the hypothetical. “How bad do you think the morale within your guard will be if I beat one of your highest ranking officers, let alone the citizens. I’m also ignoring how there’s already a racial aspect. If I was a unicorn, there wouldn’t be a whole extra section in the newspaper.”
Celestia had to admit that he had a point, though Luna sighed at the thought that unicorn supremacy wasn’t completely gone yet. Magnus, on the other hand, scoffed. “Sounds like you just want excuses to dodge my challenge.”
Skystrike looked at Celestia and Luna, then to Magnus. “Don’t say I didn't warn you.”
Celestia sighed. “Very well then. The duel will be held in the Canterlot Colosseum at noon tomorrow.”
“Alright, fine by me.” Skystrike nodded.
“Stardust, please lead Nebula to his room.” Celestia looked at a certain unicorn. “Magnus, a word.”
Skystrike turned around as Stardust followed behind him. Two guards opened the throne room doors for him. Stardust, once out of ear shot from the rest of her coworkers, began giggling. “Nebula, sir, I think I will enjoy being around you.”
Skystrike chuckled. “Glad I made a good first impression. Though I’m a bit surprised you aren't upset.”
“...Permission to speak freely?”
“Permission granted.”
“I do not like Magnus.” She sighed. “It’s like you hinted at earlier, with a lot of unicorns in Canterlot thinking they’re better, sir. Plus, between you and me…” She looked around before motioning him down to whisper in his ear. “There’s something suspicious about that stallion. He’s hiding something.”
“Good to know.” Skystrike hummed. “Well, I might have to do some digging once I’m done with the duel.”
“Oh, sir, if I may ask, how do you know where we’re going?”
Skystrike huffed. “Let's say… actually, I’ll tell you later. You’re going to have to learn about it eventually if you’re staying with me.” Then he stopped. “This… is where I’ll be staying, right?”
“Yes, sir. Though I have been made aware that the previous resident has… passed. The princess ordered that his room be kept the same. This was the only one available for your visit… Few have seen the interior.” Then she stood at the door. “I will wait outside until the princesses call for you.”
Skystrike nodded before walking inside. He felt something… nostalgia. His room was left just like when he left. A dark blue rug laid in the middle of the room in front of what was once his bed. His bed had light blue covers and pillows on it, not at all organized. Skystrike remembered how he threw the covers off, waking up late to go to his hair dresser on the day of the gala.
His desk sat against the window, the corner to the right of it piled high with pieces of scrap metal. The desk itself was covered in papers full of equations and drawings. If he remembered right, he was trying to make a shield for one of his friends at school. It was a military school, so sparring sessions happened often. Apparently he’s a big shot in the guard now.
On the opposite wall were countless pieces of art, ranging from drawings to paintings, to decorative blades. Skystrike was always a fan of creativity, though more so the cultural aspect of it. A griffon diplomat came by one day and gave Skystrike his hatchet in exchange for one of the prototype blades he made… He never did get the name of that griffon, but that damascus steel hatchet with engraved runes in the handle still hung in the middle of the wall. The rest were filled with commission pieces from the local artists, their signature included in case he wanted to find them again.
The only thing in his room that stood out, and that wasn't there before, was an ornate golden statue in the middle of his rug. It was tall, nearly as tall as him, but with a thin base. The pink magical gem within the gyroscopic contraption in the middle hummed slightly as it released magical energy. Safe to assume, the device was there to make sure that no dust built up, from the lack of it in the room, despite nothing changing.
Skystrike snapped out of his nostalgia by shaking his head. He… didn’t feel too comfortable in his room. Sure, he was nowhere near fond of Celestia right now, but he wouldn’t dare be so petty to tarnish the good memories she had of him. He was a better pony back then.
He heard hoofsteps approach the door, then a mare questioning Stardust, her voice getting louder in anger. Soon enough, the unnamed voice stormed off. Skystrike pulled his door open. “Stardust, you alright?” Skystrike looked up and down the empty hall. “Who was that?”
Stardust sighed. “One of the princesses came by and asked why I was guarding this room… She was not happy when I said the room was occupied. She’s going to see Princess Celestia, her words.”
“...Wait, just for clarification, which princess?”
“Uh…” She couldn’t remember her name. “The… pink one?”
“Shit.” Skystrike said under his breath. Only one alicorn fits the description of ‘the pink one’. Wasn’t really well known, but still had power… though now that Luna is back, she’s third in command. More importantly, they were related. More specifically, they were siblings. But that was a story for another time. More than likely soon, assuming Luna didn’t know. “Where’s Celestia and Luna?”
“Hello, Nebula.” Celestia spoke from behind him. “I… hope the room was to your liking?”
Skystrike turned around. Celestia and Luna stood in front of him. He sighed. “Celestia, I can’t stay in that room.” He admitted. “Cadenza came by. There’s… too many memories I don't want to risk ruining.”
Celestia gave a reassuring, yet sad smile. “I understand. Though we truly don't have any rooms to spare…”
“Dear sister, Sir Nebula, we believe the matter of thou’s housing during your stay within the capital can wait.” Luna stepped forward. “I believe we have more pressing matters to speak about.”
“Yeah, about that, real quick.” Skystrike pointed to Stardust. “If she’s coming to Ponyville with me, then does she already know, or do I have to explain it once we start talking?”
“Stardust doesn’t know.” Celestia clarified. “Now come, we’ll have tea between the four of us.”
Skystrike exhaled through his nose. “Alright then.”
Skystrike sat with Stardust to his left, and across from Celestia and Luna. The wind on his ears felt nice with the balcony being this high up. Skystrike rolled his neck as they waited. “You know…” Celestia began. “I would’ve preferred more… formal attire.”
“I’ve barely been welcome enough in town to buy food, let alone clothes, in Ponyville, thanks. Only reason I can even go into town with the stalls still open is because I’m seen as a hero or something.” Celestia winced at his words. “But I should have formal attire by the time the Gala comes around.”
“Oh, so you are attending the Grand Galloping Gala?” Celestia’s smile widened a bit.
“As of now, I’m still undecided, but I will more than likely attend.” Skystrike nodded. “And no, I don’t have a date yet… I also tried to hint to Twilight what you sending one ticket was hinting at, but she didn’t get it.”
“I… suspected as much when I had to send six more.” Celestia laughed behind a hoof. The door to the balcony clicked open, making all heads turn to the source of the noise. “Oh, the tea!” Celestia clapped her hooves together.
Four tea cups were placed in front of them by the stallion in a butler’s outfit. Skystrike noticed that he was more nervous than he should be. Carefully, the stallion put down four teacups in front of each of them, and began pouring the tea, starting with the princesses and ending with Skystrike. Though the way he pours Skystrike’s cup made him suspicious… and it made him even more suspicious when he immediately went to leave.
“Wait.” Skystrike said before the stallion could get to the door with the tea pot. He stopped in his hoof steps.
“What’s wrong?” Luna asked.
Skystrike picked up his teacup and swirled it. “Been through things like this before. A stallion comes in nervous, and is too quick to leave with the tea he was ordered to bring… My line of work makes me look at the finer details. For example, you could pass off that nervousness as him having to serve the princesses and their guests, but from the way he poured the tea, he not only had training, but has served you two before… Add to that, the way he poured my tea was different compared to the three of you, poured at a much steeper angle.” Skystrike then turned to the butler. “Paired with how quick he is to leave, with the tea pot, I’m willing to bet that my cup is poisoned.” Their eyes widened a bit as he sniffed it. “And it was done well too, it’s odorless, colorless, and most likely tasteless. If that stallion was able to leave the room, there’d be no trace of the crime.”
Celestia looked at him. “...You cannot be serious, Nebula. You’re making way too many assumptions for a hypothetical that grand.”
“Is it truly, sister?” Luna raised her cup. “You may not remember, it being over a thousand years since, but similar attempts have been made on us, during our wars with the other nations… We are not saying that he is right, but it is a possibility… especially after his antagonizing of your general the hours ago.”
Skystrike nodded. “Thank you, Luna.” Then he put his hooves up. “Now, I could be wrong, but there’s way too many things that are throwing me off to not point it out.”
Celestia looked at him, then hesitantly to the shivering butler. “...Let's say that you are right… How would you suggest we test it?”
Skystrike smirked. “Well, hear me out until the end.” The princesses raised a brow. “One of you drinks it.”
“...You cannot be serious, Nebula.” Luna’s jaw dropped.
“Like I said, hear me out.” Skystrike put his elbows on the table. “Let's say one of you drinks it, the butler here would have to admit to the supposed poison before it even touches your lips. Celestia has been the ruler for the past thousand years, and Luna, the dear little sister who she just got back. If anything happened to either one of you, there’d be Tartarus to pay. And if I’m wrong, whoever drinks it gets a good cup of tea. Thoughts?”
Celestia looked at him, then at Luna. Luna looked back before picking up the teacup in her magic and slowly raising it to her mouth, keeping eye contact with the butler as she did so. The butler got more and more visibly scared as Luna’s piercing cyan eyes.
The butler cracked. “Wait! Don’t drink it!” Luna stopped raising the cup. “He-... he’s right.” Celestia’s ears went back as those words met them. “There’s a… second layer in the teapot that was filled with poison.”
Skystrike hummed at the confirmation. “Thank you. Now, who told you to poison me?” The butler hesitated to answer.
Celestia looked at the butler. “You have my word that no harm will come to you, as long as your words are truthful.” Then she glared at him. “And believe me, I can tell.”
“I’m willing to bet that he was blackmailed, just from how scared he was when he entered.” Skystrike said. “You should also add that his safety is guaranteed.”
“...Very well, your safety is guaranteed. Will you speak?”
The butler quickly nodded. “General Magnus threatened my job and my family, princess… I’m the sole earner…” His voice wavered. “I don’t want my son to end up homeless!”
Celestia sighed and shot back her cup of tea, making Skystrike chuckle. Then he elbowed Stardust. “Seems like you were right.” Then he turned to the butler. “Now, you don’t have to tell me this, nor will I force it out of you, but if you tell me where your son is, I’ll make sure that nopony lays a finger on him.”
Celestia blinked. “Nebula, while the offer is appreciated, I believe my guard can handle that.”
Skystrike looked at her. “Say that again, but slowly.” That got a slight giggle out of Luna. Celestia blinked once more, realizing that Magnus still has sway. “Stardust.” She stood at attention. “Once our talks are done here, get the information from that stallion and make sure his kid is safe until the duel tomorrow.” Skystrike then turned to the stallion. “When you get out of here, I want you to go back to following whatever orders you had. I imagine it’ll take time for the poison to kick in, so I’ll be sneaking out of the castle. That way your cover won’t be blown.”
“...I tried to poison you, why are you being nice to me?”
“It’s not the worst thing I’ve forgiven. Besides, family is important.” Skystrike then grabbed a bag of bits out of his pocket. “Here, take your colt and get a good dinner. Kids pick up on things, so try to lessen his worry.”
The butler caught the bits in his hooves, then looked to Celestia and Luna. Both nodded before he left with a bow. “...I see you still have a heart, despite the claims…” Celestia smiled. “I heard about what happened with that griffon in Ponyville… though from this, I see that violence isn’t a pattern.”
Skystrike shrugged. “Eh, I try to. Have a heart, I mean.” Skystrike sat up straight. “Now, what did you two want to talk about?”
“Well, before that, dost thou believe it is a good idea to let Magnus go?” Luna asked. “From what we read about your achievements, we were expecting a more… brutal approach.”
“Already thought of that too.” Skystrike leaned back in his chair. “When I beat him tomorrow, you two, along with that stallion, will announce his attempt on me. That way, when you eventually fire him, it won’t look as bad. It’ll be seen as me beating a criminal, rather than a respected member of the guard.”
“...That… makes sense.” Luna nodded. “Though if we can move on to more personal matters, we’ve been meaning to ask what history you have with my sister.”
Skystrike nodded and thought back, beginning to explain their first official meeting… of course with some parts left out.
Skystrike was about ten, though closer to eleven, and had just moved in a couple months ago from the hive. How? Well, it’s really easy to pass as an orphan in Canterlot. It wasn’t rare for there to be an orphan, but it was more common than one thought. His now caretaker, Sister Paprika, was the headmare at the Church of the Two Sisters. Paprika was an earth pony with a cream colored coat and a puffy, dark magenta mane with a maroon highlight. Skystrike was glad she was the first pony he met, with how welcoming she was.
It took a lot of paperwork, but she was able to get him space within the orphanage. It took time to get used to her presence, but she had a good heart. Skystrike didn't want to stay there scot free, so he helped around the orphanage whenever possible, whether that was checking on his little ‘siblings’ or cleaning the place.
And today, he promised to help her deep clean the bedrooms. It’s a lot to do for one pony, especially since there’s ten of them. Four were toddlers, and he was the oldest of the other six. There was also some meeting, but he zoned out that part. The streets were busy, but thanks to him being a pegasus, he could skip all of the hoof traffic. Skystrike took to the sky and began flying home.
Something caught his eye on the flight home. A pink unicorn wore a light blue dress, and scratched angrily at her violet, rose, and gold mane, levitating a piece of paper in her magic. He wasn’t truly in a rush, and she seemed like she needed help. Skystrike landed next to her. Getting a closer look at her, she seemed around his age, if not a year or two older. “Excuse me? You seem in distress. Need help?”
The well dressed unicorn looked at him. “Oh, thank you, you have no idea how much help I need.” She passed the piece of paper in front of him. “I’m supposed to meet my aunt nearby for some meeting with a headmare, but I’m lost.” She admitted.
Skystrike took the sheet of paper in his hooves and began reading. “...Well if your aunt gave you this, she confused east with west. This district is on the other side of Canterlot.”
The unicorn threw her hooves up in the air in annoyance, then pushed her face into her hooves. “Celestia damn it, I’m not going to make it in time…”
Skystrike looked at her. “...How important is this meeting?”
The mare looked at him. “...Very.”
“And when do you need to be there?”
“In twenty minutes.”
Skystrike began stretching. “Alright, last one. You afraid of heights?”
Her eyes narrowed. “No way you plan on carrying me. I’m… well I’m not fat, but I’m heavier than I look… Besides, the guards patrolling will notice you with me.”
Skystrike opened his mouth, then closed it. “I was warned not to comment on a mare’s weight, so I will once again offer to carry you.” Then he smirked. “But… if you’re somepony important enough for the guard to find me suspicious by carrying you, that just means I need to outrun the guard.”
The mare looked at him, then laughed. “Ok! You’re a funny guy! You’ve convinced me.” She stood up. “I’ll even give you a pardon if you’re caught.”
Skystrike realized that the mare was about his height. But he said he would. Scooping her up in her hooves with a grunt, Skystrike began flapping his wings. “Oof…” He let slip. The mare shot him a dirty look as her hooves wrapped around his neck. With a running start, he jumped into the air, flying above the buildings and speeding up.
“Wow, you’re a lot stronger than you look, colt.” She looked at the buildings speeding by. “At this rate, we’ll have plenty of time to spare!” Then she looked at him. “I uh… hope I’m not making you late to anything?”
“Not really.” Skystrike answered. “If I may ask, what are you so well dressed for? Some party, I assume.”
“HEY!” A pegasus guard began flying behind them. “Put her down, colt!”
Skystrike looked back to the guard, then to mare in his hooves. “Hey, what’s the street you need to be on?”
“Uh…” The mare checked her notes. “Trottingdale avenue.”
Skystrime smirked. “Ah, good, I know the area… I’m going to speed up, so hold on.”
He felt her grip tighten, taking it as his que. To the guard’s protest, he began flapping his wings even harder, speeding up. Skystrike squinted his eyes at the speed he was going, the guard behind him hot on his tail. “Uh, hey, that guard called for his squad!”
“How many are on me!?” He had to yell to speak over the whistling wind.
“Eight!”
“Jeez, how important are you, lady!?” Skystrike laughed before he dove between the buildings. The guards followed him as he dove down an alleyway, making the unicorn in his arms tense up as he folded in his wings to fit through some of the gaps. Spreading his wings once more, he generated some lift, flying through some personal balconies. He didn’t have time to look back, but that should’ve lost a few.
“Are you crazy!?” The mare shouted at the close calls he made.
“Haven’t seen anything yet!” Skystrike chuckled as he flew into the streets below, pushing off walls with his back hooves to quickly turn down streets, diving through alleys, flying up buildings, anything to lose the guards on him.
The mare closed his eyes at several points through the flight, but soon began laughing. “This is so… exciting! How are we going so bucking fast!?”
“Hey, can’t look behind me! How many?” Skystrike asked.
She turned her head. “Um, four!” Then she blinked. “How have they not caught you yet!?”
“I’m really good at flying!” He laughed before flying down between the streets. “This is the street! Where am I dropping you off!?”
“Uh, the place is an orphanage!” She answered. “Something about two sisters!?”
Skystrike was a bit surprised that she was meeting with her aunt at an orphanage of all places, but who was he to judge? He tilted his wings, making him curve up. Twisting his body, he faced backwards in the direction of motion before spreading his wings to slow himself. His hooves skidded across the stone paths as he stopped right in front of the orphanage with a huff. “There you go, ten minutes to spare.” He let her out of his hooves.
The mare got down and straightened her dress with her magic. “That was… a lot more fun than I thought it’d be. My heart is still racing… We should do that again!”
“Do what again?” A voice behind them said. The two turned around, and Sister Paprika exited the orphanage… with Princess Celestia next to her.
“Auntie!” The mare threw up her hooves.
“AUNTIE!???” Skystrike put his hooves behind his head in surprise.
“Oh, Cadence, you made it! I was getting worried, you’re normally early.” Celestia crouched down to hug her.
The pink mare, named Cadence, shared the hug. “You… actually gave me the wrong directions.” But then this kind pony helped me out!” She pointed to Skystrike.
Skystrike and Celestia made eye contact. “Well thank you, my little po-” Then she craned her neck down to get a better look. “Ohh! You’re the young colt that I met that night!”
Cadence looked to Celestia. “Oh, is that why you chose this one?”
Celestia nodded. “Indeed. I was hoping we’d meet again.”
Skystrike knew what she was referencing, his late night escapade to Canterlot Castle, but that was a story for another time. As soon as he was about to respond, though, roughly a dozen guards landed behind him. “You! Pegasus!” The guards quickly surrounded him. “Step away from the princesses!”
“You’re a PRINCESS!???” Skystrike groaned.
“Oh, right.” Cadence pulled back part of her dress, revealing her wings. “I didn’t want to risk wrinkling my dress by flying…”
“Ah, Tartarus…” Skystrike sighed.
“Hold on.” Celestia put up a hoof to stop the guards. “What happened?”
Cadence chuckled nervously and tapped her hooves together. “Well… when I said you gave me wrong directions, I… kinda ended up on the opposite side of Canterlot… That colt said he could get me here before I was late… so we made… a deal?”
“Cadence…” Her motherly tone made itself known.
“I… may have said I’d pardon him if any guards suspected him of foalnapping me, since he said he’d get me here on time?”
Celestia looked at her, then to a shrugging Skystrike, then to the tired guards behind him, and finally to Paprika next to him. She sighed, then giggled. “Thank you, guards. I’ll take it from here.” The guards behind Skystrike began huffing as they all sat down to catch their breath. “You know, a part of me is impressed you outflew a squadron of pegasi… but I don’t want to encourage you.”
“SKYSTRIKE NEBULA!” Paprika shouted at the pegasus and grabbed him by the ear. He winced. “Do you know how much trouble you just got out of!?” She began pulling him by the ear. “I swear, you are a hoof full! A dozen guards on you!? Really!? One of these days, nopony is going to be here to save your flank!”
“Ow! Ok, I get it!” Skystrike winced at the pressure on his ear.
“You said that the last time, colt! I’m not taking that again!” She let go and continued scolding him. “Well!? What do you have to say for yourself, young colt!?”
Skystrike thought about it for a few moments. “...I do not regret my actions. Under the same circumstances, with the same information I was given, I would do it again… If I were to make a decision on the information I have now, I would have tried harder on losing the guards. Not because I was caught breaking whatever laws, but because the laws would have hindered me from helping Princess Cadence.”
Paprika sighed. “Celestia damn it…”
Celestia couldn’t help but laugh at the show. “Ahaha! It’s quite alright, Miss Paprika. His heart is in the right place… though I will say it’s surprising that ponies still use my name like that.” Celestia laughed some more at her widening eyes. “It’s quite alright. This won't affect anything. In fact, I think it may have helped out.” Celestia turned to Cadence. “Well, still want to meet each one?”
Cadence shook his head. “No, I think I’ve decided.” She turned to Skystrike who was still rubbing his ear. “Skystrike, right? I suppose it’s time to tell you what I’m here for.” Skystrike looked at the young alicorn, waiting for her to continue. “A… bit embarrassing to say, but a friend of mine has a little sibling, and I was looking for one. Auntie said she had a history with this place, and one with you. I want a sibling as well… and I think you’d fit in well… only if you want to of course.”
Skystrike looked at her as if this was a joke. It wasn't. He looked to Celestia for confirmation, then to Paprika, who waited for his answer with baited breath. Her dream was always for him and his siblings to get adopted, and there wouldn’t be a better offer than the one he was just given. Paprika nodded, and that confirmed Skystrike’s answer. “Uh, alright, but I promised Paprika I’d help clean. How long are you willing to wait?”
Paprika instinctively face hoofed, and Celestia couldn’t help but laugh. Cadence chuckled at his response, but was visibly ecstatic. “Great! Welcome to the family!”
Stardust spit out her tea. “You’re Skystrike Nebula!?”
Skystrike nodded. “I am.”
Luna’s eyes widened at the end of the story. “We’re sorry, we still are not used to the Alicorn of Love. You’re… a prince?”
Skystrike nodded again. “I was.” Skystrike leaned back in his chair. “But I abandoned that title when I abandoned the life I once had.”
Celestia huffed. “Cadence… never got over your death… and neither did I.”
Skystrike looked at her. “I left for a reason. That reason still stands. No use opening old wounds, nor opening up those I care about to danger when I’m not strong enough to protect them.”
Luna cleared her throat. “Skystrike, if we may, while we do not know the whole tale of your past, we can speak your own experience with us… It was thanks to you and the elements that I was able to return to my sister. We hope that you will extend that same hoof to those in your past.”
Skystrike took in a deep breath. “Luna, you were sent to the moon by your sister because you were a danger to your subjects. But she still had hope that you could come back to who you once were, and through either luck or fate, you came back. I faked my death because my siblings were attacked and almost killed because they were related to me. We may have similar circumstances, but the evil who wants to harm my friends and family still remains…” He clenched a hoof. “As long as he remains, as long as I lack the power, then I will remain hidden.” Then he sighed. “But… I will keep your words in mind.”
Luna’s hooves tightened around her teacup. “We… understand… May we ask who is this evil you speak of?”
“Another time, perhaps. I know who did it, but I do not have proof… if there even is any left over the years I’ve been gone.” Skystrike grit his teeth. “But eventually, when I am more trusting of you two, I will share.”
Celestia nodded as she sipped her tea. “Well, I suppose I must make an effort…”
“Uh…” All eyes were on Stardust. “Prince Skystrike, if I can ask, if your relationship with Princess Celestia was a good one in your childhood, then… why isn’t it now, even when she knows you’re Skystrike?”
Celestia looked at him, as she also wanted an answer to that question. “That is a long story, though not as long as the earlier one.” Skystrike hummed. “After I faked my death and began working as a bounty hunter, I gathered a group of beings from various species, called ‘All’. It was a dream I had, to break through the cultural biases and differences, and to be together as friends. That dream started partially because of the way I saw ponies treat others, because of how some delegates and diplomats were treated by and treated ponies, and because, in the end, we aren’t all that different at the end of the day. “ Skystrike sat forward. “A pegasus, a unicorn, an earth pony, a dragon, a diamond dog, a changeling, a hippogriff, an avian, and a zebra. Though we all had our own histories, we came to trust each other, and began traveling around, helping anyone who needed it.” Then he paused in his speech. “My current relationship with Celestia is strained because not only have we had several run-ins with her guards, but…” His hooves clenched up once more. “We were attacked… by a group known as ‘Hydra’, marked by the tattoo of one on their bodies… They were with-...” He stopped himself. “...Let us leave it there. The memory is infuriating. I will bring it up when important… I’d rather we move on to another subject.”
Celestia was about to press for more information, but was held back by a hoof on her own from her sister. With a sigh, Celestia nodded. “Very well… Though I do know of this ‘Hydra’ organization. Came around about fifty years ago… I suppose we can talk about them another time.” A maid entered with a cart with a large white cake on it. The mare used her magic to put the cake in the center of the table, as well as plates for the four of them, quickly cutting each of them a slice, and leaving. “...Was she suspicious?”
“No.” Skystrike stabbed his fork into the cake and took a bite. “Also, while I may not have the most positive opinion of you right now, Celestia, know that I don’t hate you.”
Celestia smiled a bit at that. “I’ll… take what I can get.” She instantly devoured her slice of cake. “So… how’s Ponyville?”
Skystrike hummed. “It’s alright. Ponies mostly stay at arms length, but they’ve become more welcoming… Twilight is also talking to her friends pretty often, if you care about that.”
Luna hummed. “We have heard thou lives next to the Everfree? Doesn’t it get dangerous?”
“You’d think, but that forest has a mind of its own. Show it your own strength, and it keeps its distance.” Skystrike said as he watched the princess of the sun destroy another slice of cake. “But how’s it going between you two? I imagine a few months isn't much time to catch up on things.”
Luna huffed. “Indeed. We are still learning the political landscape of this time. And we have not even begun on societal norms… Though while watching the ponies scurry about, we noticed that polyamory is no longer limited to the higher nobilities.”
Skystrike chuckled. “Didn’t take you for one to think of relationships.”
“Tis only natural with the Gala approaching. While we always say no, my sister and I often spoke of any stallion who was interested when they tried to court us.” Then she giggled. “Most were unnerving, to say the least, speaking about wanting to ‘see the sun rise and set’.”
Celestia groaned at the memory. “I haven't thought about that stallion for millenia… thank you for reminding me.” Celestia said sarcastically.
“You know, that would’ve gotten a laugh out of me.” Skystrike admitted. “And I’m not going to lie, I’d probably say something similar as an ice breaker and as a joke.”
“Oh? Please, give me an example.” Luna leaned forward with a smirk.
Skystrike realized the mistake he made. “Fuck, I shouldn’t have said that.” He chuckled to himself. “But if this is a royal order…” He quickly thought of one. “My ears are cold, can I use your thighs as earmuffs?”
Luna let out a hardy laugh that quickly turned to a girlish giggle as Celestia pulled Skystrike close and deadpanned, staring into his very soul. “Skystrike, do not hit on my sister.”
Skystrike put his hooves up with a chuckle. “Hey, not my fault I got game. Besides, I’m only joking. Not looking for a relationship right now.”
Luna put a hoof on Celestia’s shoulder. “Tis alright, sister. We do not mean anything by it. It’s nice to know at least the silly courting lines have not changed.” Celestia let the pegasus go. “Besides, yours were much more enjoyable than mine. Need I remind you of the countless ones about your flank? And I see your love for cake has not changed.”
“You’re saying it was that big back then???” Stardust blurted out but slapped a hoof over her mouth, making Luna laugh and Celestia sink into her chair.
Skystrike couldn’t help but laugh. “You know, I was thinking it, but then she said it…” Then he looked at the cake. “...Holy shit, it’s already gone!” He looked to Celestia, who sank in further. Then he had a funny thought. “Hey, Luna.” She turned to the stallion. “How would you react if I told you that current slang also refers to one’s rear as ‘cake’?”
Luna’s eyes widened as she slowly turned back to her sister. “Luna, Don’t you dare.”
Skystrike smirked. “What if I also told you some refer to it as a ‘bakery’ as well?”
“Is it because it’s big!?” Luna asked excitedly. Skystrike nodded. “AHAHAAHAHA!”
“Skystrike, please don’t encourage her.” Celestia sat up.
“You ate three quarters of a cake, how am I not going to bring that up?” Skystrike threw out his hooves. “Plus, it’s worse than ligma.”
Stardust and Celestia froze as Skystrike deviously put his hooves together. Luna, not used to the current slang, was easy pickings. “And what, praytell, is Ligma?”
“LUNA NO!” Celestia shouted in despair.
Skystrike took off his helmet to show how wide his shit eating grin was. “Ligma BALLS!”
“I can’t believe you went for a ligma joke on the princess!” Stardust laughed as they walked down the busy streets of Canterlot. “You have guts, I’ll give you that.”
“What can I say? I saw the chance and had to take it.” Skystrike shrugged as he walked. “You remember what I said earlier, right?”
“Yep.” Stardust nodded. “Already talked to that stallion, and I’ll be on my way to watch over the two once we reach the end of the street.” Then she had a thought. “...Sir, if I may ask, do you really think you can beat Magnus? While I am not aware of your abilities, Magnus’s are in a league of his own.”
“Oh, yeah, I’ll be fine.” Skystrike dismissed it by waving a hoof. “I know what I’m up against.”
“Then you know he trained Shining Armor?”
Skystrike nodded. “And that doesn’t worry me in the slightest. Tell you what, once we’re back in Ponyville, I’ll teach you how to fight against unicorns. It’s much easier than you think… Besides, I’ve had my share of skirmishes. Compared to all of that, this will be a cake walk.”
Stardust sighed. “If you say so, but know he’s never lost a fight.” She stopped at the end of the street. “One more thing, how do you know when the you know what will take effect?”
“Simple, it’d look bad if I keeled over in the middle of the day, and they knew I was going to be staying in the castle. It would make the most sense if it hit at night.” Skystrike explained as he stretched. “Well, make sure to stay safe, Stardust. I’ll see you tomorrow. I have a few places to check out.”
Stardust saluted. “Yes sir! Have a good day, sir!”
The two turned their backs to each other as they went their separate ways. Skystrike’s first destination was his favorite food stall… if it was still there after all these years. A left here, a right there, after a short walk, where the stall once was was a donut shop. It wasn’t too long ago that he was here, only three years if he remembered right. Hopefully the same pony was still in charge.
He pushed open the glass door, ringing the bell as he entered. “Just a minute!” A stallion’s voice could be heard coming from the kitchen. The clanking of bowls and silverware announced his approach. The unicorn had a light amber coat with a moderate orange mane and tail, and currently wore a flour covered apron. “Welcome to-... By Celestia, is that you, Atlas Nebula!? It’s been a while!”
“Surprised you remembered me, Donut Joe.” Skystrike shook the stallion’s hoof.
“Are you kidding? You were one of my first, and my favorite customers!” Joe patted the pegasus on the back. “You always came by and bought half my stock! Wouldn’t be a stretch to say that you were a big reason I moved from a stall to a store!”
“Huh, well, nice to see you moving up in the world, and that I was able to help out. You make good donuts. My friends always enjoyed them.”
Joe laughed. “You know, for the longest time, I figured that you were eating the dozen by yourself, until I heard that you traveled around with a dragon. You gotta bring your friends by sometime.”
Skystrike winced. “Well… it may be a while at the least… We split apart about two years ago.”
Joe winced. “Ah, sorry to bring up a bad subject. But hey, I’m here whenever you’re in Canterlot. Now, what do you want, kid? The usual? On the house, of course!”
Skystrike took him up on the offer. “Well, if you remember, I’ll gladly accept, and of course if it’s not too much of a hassle.”
Joe began loading the donuts into a paper bag. “One of each donut hole, right? And don’t worry about it. A big stallion like you has to eat!”
Skystrike caught the bag thrown at him and picked one out. The soft snack seemed to melt in his mouth. “God, it’s even better than I remember…” He was mid bite into another donut hole before the ringing of a bell announced the arrival of more ponies.
He turned to the door to see who came in. His eyes widened at the sight of familiar faces. All three were unicorns. The first had a light blue coat with blue and grayish blue striped hair. The second was a bright yellow with an azure and cerulean curled mane. The last had a white coat with a pink mane, sharing the same hairstyle as the second.
If he remembered their names right, in order, they were Minuette, Lemon Hearts, and Twinkle Shine. He went to school with them after he was adopted by Celestia. It was… interesting seeing them, seemingly doing well after all these years. He had half a mind to turn back around, go about his day like he never saw them, and not open all of them up to more pain. But then he thought on Luna’s words, about extending a hoof. But a part of him was scared of the pain of that rejection. They were good friends… once. Would it really be the same?
Only one way to find out, he supposed.
Skystrike approached the table the three mares sat down at. They looked up at him curiously, but the curiosity turned to nervousness as they realized who he was. “Uh…” Minuette stammered. “H-how can we help you?”
Skystrike opened his mouth, but the words didnt come to him. An awkward silence fell between them as he searched for anything to say. “Sorry… I was thinking of what to say, but I can’t think of anything. Instead, I’m just going show you.” Skystrike reached for his helmet and slowly pulled it off. “Minuette, Lemon Hearts, Twinkle Shine… it’s been some time.”
Minuette was the first to speak, looking at his face confused. “Uh… should we know-” Then her eyes widened. “OH MY GOSH, SKYSTRIKE!?” She instantly threw her arms around him.
“You’re Skystrike!?” Lemon Hearts stood up with her hooves on the table. “No way!”
“We thought you died!” Twinkle Shine said, though it came off more like a question.
Skystrike hugged Minuette back before answering. “Yeah… I had my reasons to stay hidden… But I’m here now, at least for a little while. Mind if I sit down with you all?”
“Of course!” Minuette pulled up a chair for him.
Skystrike sat down and put back on his helmet. “I didn’t want to open old wounds but… I’ve been thinking. It’s not fair to you all if I just keep to myself like I did… But I do ask you to keep my identity a secret… Also call me Nebula in public.”
“Of course!” Lemon Hearts sat back down. “But really quick, the heck do you eat to get that big!? You’re the size of the new princess!”
He chuckled. “Well, I eat the normal things ponies do, but more. Honestly, I’m surprised I’m this big too.”
“So how have you been, Skystrike? So It’s been what, six years? What have you been up to?” Twinkle Shine asked, then shook her head. “No, nevermind, we read some of the papers that show up about you from time to time.”
“Wait, I have articles about me?” Skystrike asked. “Are they good or bad?”
“...I mean… depends. A lot are conspiracy theories about how you’re a secret agent for Princess Celestia. Most are scathing reviews on your way of going about the missions, saying you’re too wolf in pony’s clothing.” She shrugged. “But everything I hear about the ponies you directly helped actually speak positively of you.”
“God, I love the media.” Skystrike threw a donut hole into his mouth. “But enough about me, what’s happening with you three?”
“Oh, you know, same old work, day in and day out.” Minuette chuckled. “Oh, we’re actually all studying to get into our masters programs! I’m trying to study time manipulation, Lemon Hearts is trying to get in for food science, and Twinkle Shine is going for astrology!”
“Damn, I knew you three were smart, but didn’t realize you’d come this far so soon.”
“...You can’t be serious.” Twinkle Shine smiled. “Didn’t you skip, like, several grades?”
“Yeah, but that doesn’t discredit all the work you all did. It’s something to be proud of.” Skystrike said. “Oh, what about Moondancer? How’s she doing?” Then he scratched the back of his head. “This may make me sound like an asshole… but I actually kept in contact with her after I died… She seemed like she needed a friend, and while I couldn’t explain why I disappeared, she still needed somepony to talk to… I’m worried. She hasn’t responded since her birthday.”
Minuette’s smile stayed the same, but her eyes changed. “Oh, it’s no problem. She got along better with you out of all of us.” Then she shuffled in her seat. “You remember Twilight, right? She left to Ponyville I think, something about studying? Next I heard about her, she stopped Nightmare Moon when she came back during the summer sun celebration… The thing was, Moondancer’s birthday was on the same day. We invited Twilight, but she didn’t want to come. Moondancer didn’t take it well… said she wanted some space.”
Skystrike sighed, then nodded. “I see. I’ll have to visit her next time I’m here then. She probably won't be happy to see me now of all times…” Skystrike juggled a donut hole in his hoof. “This may be selfish of me, just meeting again after all this time, but please stay her friend. Don’t give up on her.”
Twinkle Shine nodded. “Alright, just promise to come around more. We can catch up more.”
“Oh, I know what we can talk about!” Lemon Hearts clapped her hooves together. “Did you all hear about a duel that’s happening tomorrow? Apparently the general of the Royal Guard is fighting against some stallion. He wasn’t named yet.”
“Wait, the guy Magnus is fighting isn’t named?” Twinkle Shine asked.
“I don’t think so. Something about a surprise challenger? But it doesn’t make sense, since Magnus issued the challenge. I figured it was just a pride thing.”
Skystrike didn’t want to admit that he was the other pony in the duel. “Eh, it’ll probably be quick.” Skystrike began eating his donut holes again.
“...Hey, so is it true you fought Nightmare Moon?” Lemon Hearts asked.
“Yeah, why?”
“No reason. Just… didn’t realize how strong you got. I figured the dragon and the griffon were the muscle of your group.” Lemon Hearts chuckled. “But now I see why you’re here in Canterlot.”
Skystrike chuckled. “Oh yeah. The dragon, her name’s Tethys, was definitely the muscle. I’m the jack of all trades. The griffon, Alder, was in charge of finances. As for the latter statement, Luna let loose my real identity in front of Celestia… Because of that, I suppose I was called here to… rebuild relationships.”
“Well I’m glad we met here! What a crazy coincidence, huh?” Minuette clapped her hooves together. Then she had an idea. “Hey, we normally have a girls night out, but you’re welcome to join us!”
Skystrike hummed. “If you don't mind a guy in on your girls night, sure. Though depending on how long we’re out, I have to leave a bit early. Need to find a hotel or something.”
Twinkle Shine looked up in thought. “...I got a couch if you don’t mind. We planned on meeting up at my place after.”
Skystrike chuckled. “Oh, you three plan on getting wasted. I don’t drink much, so I’ll be the sober one.”
“Celestia, you’re the best, Skystrike.” Twinkle Shine smiled.
Skystrike woke up from the night before. The couch was small, so he ended up falling asleep on Twinkle Shine’s floor. He yawned, remembering the night before. Skystrike was expecting to go clubbing, but instead, they went to a diner and ate. Only got a bit weird when the mares were on their third glasses of wine. Minuette was a very, very flirty drunk, and didn’t hide it, hitting on passing stallions, and him a few times. Admittedly it would’ve worked if he was looking for a relationship. Lemon Hearts was a reckless one, Skystrike having to catch her as she tried to teleport on top of a lamp post, only ending up in the middle of the air… She also dove into a fountain, and it was pretty funny. Twinkle Shine was an affectionate drunk, hugging the other three constantly and sharing words of affirmation.
But he knew the three would be embarrassed. Skystriks stood up and stretched before walking into Twinkle Shine’s kitchen and opening her refrigerator. What was there to make? Looking into the cupboards, he would have a simple yet filling breakfast prepared. After a few minutes, a large stack of pancakes topped with various fruits were split between four plates.
Next, Skystrike knocked on the bedroom door. No response. He pushed the door open to check on the three, all sprawled about in the bed. He chuckled at the sight before shaking the bed, nudging them awake. They all yawned as they pushed themselves up. Then the mares made eye contact with Skystrike. He smirked as they remembered the night before and covered their faces. “I made breakfast.”
The three wordlessly got up and met him around the dining table. Skystrike was still smirking as they all were trying to shake off their hangovers. “So… yesterday was an experience.” They all groaned and pushed their faces into their forehooves. Skystrike laughed. “I see you three remember last night.”
Lemon Hearts tilted her head back. “I don’t know why I was trying to show off…”
“I’m so embarrassed.” Twinkle sighed.
“You can say that again.” Minuette groaned. “This is why I’m the sober one normally.”
“I’m never letting you three live this down.” Skystrike began cutting his pancakes. “But it was fun, seeing you three like that. It was real funny. Honestly, Lemon Hearts, if you practiced more, you could be a stunt double or daredevil.”
“Thanks? I guess??” He looked at him before eating. “Mmm, this is pretty good.”
“Thank you. I figured it was the least I could do after letting me stay the night.”
“Could’ve done a bit more than that, you know…” Minuette said with a mouthful of Pancakes.
Skystrike tilted his head. “What?”
Minuette looked at him, then to her friends. Then back to him. “...Skystrike, are you gay?”
“What? No. Why?”
“Well, when we invited you, we were kinda hoping for something… more?”
Skystrike looked at her as he thought about it. Lemon Hearts sighed. “You’re the only stallion I’ve met who’s this dense.”
He looked at the yellow mare. “...Was… was this a booty call?” They all nodded. “Oh shit, my bad. I thought we were just hanging out like old times.”
The three laughed at him before Minuette waved a hoof. “It’s alright, I guess we should've been more forward…” Then she leaned forward and crossed her hooves. “So… is it safe to assume you are interested?”
Skystrike thought about it. “You three are lovely mares, but… I’m going through some things right now. If I was looking for a relationship, and you three weren’t drunk, I might have gone for it.”
Minuette took in his words. “...So is that a no to a next time?”
Skystrike chuckled. “You know what, I gotta respect the commitment. Tell you what, if I’m in a better mental state the next time we see each other, I’ll do it.”
“BUCK YEAH!” Minuette threw her hooves up, making the other three laugh.
Skystrike took his last bite of food before getting up and putting his plate in the sink. “Well, wish I could stay a bit longer, but I have to get to it. I have… some business to deal with while I’m here.” He said as he began putting on his gambeson and armor. “I’ll try to keep in contact, expect some letters.”
“Dang, sad to see you go so soon, Sky.” Twinkle looked up from her food. “Where do you live now, anyway?”
“Ponyville.”
“Oh, that isn’t too far, then. We’ll visit when we get the chance.” Lemon Hearts finished her food.
Skystrike smiled at the thought. “That’d be nice.” He finished putting on his armor by putting on his helmet. “It was… good seeing you three again.” He went to the door and pulled it open. “Guess this is goodbye for now. You three take care of yourselves.”
“Same to you, Skystrike.” They all said as he closed the door behind them.
A part of him was nervous, his heart still racing about opening his heart up again. Another part was a bit upset that Luna was right, and the last part was the back of his mind telling him he should’ve done this a long time ago.
But he knew the reasons he decided to hide his identity. Under the same circumstances, with the same information given, he’d make the same decision. For the safety of those around him, he must carry this burden.
His thoughts moved along as Echo spoke to him. “Your duel with Magnus is fast approaching. Eighty minutes until the scheduled time. I suggest you speed up your step.” Skystrike did so. “Additionally, I believe you may be worrying for no reason.”
“...I said that aloud again, didn’t I?”
“Affirmative. If you believe in luck, there will be times to reunite with old faces. Until then, worrying over the endless possibilities will get you nowhere. Focus on the now. And right now, you need to beat Magnus.”
Skystrike stopped in front of the colosseum. “I suppose you’re right… Let's put on a good show, Echo.”
Skystrike stretched as he walked into the center of the circular arena, Magnus waving to the cheering crowd, though it got noticeably quieter as he entered the arena. As he looked around, he noticed that a portion of the arena was saved for the royal guard. It only made sense that so many wanted to come. He saw Celestia and Luna in their seats in the upper platforms. He also saw the surprised faces of Minuette, Lemon Hearts, and Twinkle Shine as he entered the arena.
The announcer introduced them. “Ladies and Gentlecolts! Welcome to the Canterlot Colosseum! Today we have a great battle in front of us! Magnus, General of the Royal Guard, champion of the ponies, is fighting for the win today! Known for his feats in magic, ranging from blasting a dragon out of the sky, to simultaneous spell casting, he’ll give us one Tartarus of a show today!” The crowd cheered.
“And his opponent, Atlas Nebula, the infamous bounty hunter! Not much is known about this raven clad warrior, but his feats are nothing to scoff at! Known for his dual blades, he’s taken down the terrifying Graveworms that infested the western portion of Equestria, as well as blinding speed, despite the heavy armor! Lets hope this living legend lives up to the stories.”
Skystrike was a bit surprised at the crowd cheering for him as well.
“Surprised you still came, Nebula.” Magnus got in his face, wearing the same armor as the day before.
“I know you are.” Skystrike said plainly. “I see you decided to wear a helmet. You need that to protect your head or your hairline?” The crowd began to chuckle.
“Your petty insults will not get a reaction out of me, boy.” Magnus hissed.
“Yo, the way you say ‘boy’ sounds laced with a lot of prejudice.” Skystrike laughed. “But I guess you would learn to control yourself after you got chewed out by Celestia, huh?” Skystrike began stretching in front of him. “But ponies like you don't learn through kindness… so I guess I just have to embarrass you.” Skystrike stood up straight. “Announcer, I’d like to add a rule: If General Magnus here lands even a single hit on me, I lose.”
The crowd roared at Skystrike's provocation, making Magnus laugh as well. “Well, I’ll make this quick, then!”
“Combatants, get ready!” The announcer spoke. The two turned their backs to each other and walked a few paces away. They turned to look at eachother. Magnus was outwardly calm, but his eyes were full of anger. Skystrike stood on his hind legs and drew both of his swords as Magnus drew his own. “The winner will be decided when Magnus lands a strike on Nebula, or when Magnus is rendered unconscious, imobile, or receives a fatal wound. Ready!” The two stallions nodded. “Begin!”
Magnus prepared for Skystrike to blitz him, only for the pegasus to slowly walk forward, wings spread wide. The gal of the pegasus annoyed the unicorn. Angrily, Magnus quickly charged a small, fast blast of magic, Skystrike waving his blade to cut it down. He kept walking. Magnus decided to shoot a more powerful ball of magic, but was slightly surprised that Skystrike deflected it and kept walking.
The unicorn was visibly angry now, raising his head high as he charged magic at the tip of his horn. Pushing his head forward, he released a beam of magic in Skystrike’s direction. Skystrike decided to get a bit serious, pushing his back hooves into the ground and flying towards Magnus, flying alongside the magic beam before kicking the unicorn in the side, sending him rolling away. “Come on.” Skystrike waited for Magnus to get up. “Make this exciting.”
Magnus pushed himself back onto his hooves before charging his magic again. Long range attacks didn’t seem to be effective on the pegasus, so he needed to get in close. Magnus focused and teleported in front of Skystrike, raising his sword high before quickly bringing it down. Unfortunately for Magnus, his blade met the dirt below him, Skystrike easily side stepped him. The unicorn pulled back his sword to defend himself, but his eyes widened as Skystrike stood there, looking at him.
“Dont… don’t you dare mock me!” Magnus shouted as a flurry of slashes came Skystrike’s way. Despite his wrathful advance, none of the slashes landed on the pegasus, side stepping, ducking under, and jumping over any aimed for him. But then Magnus had him, mid air, point blank, he pushed magic through his horn at Skystrike.
But the pegasus was faster than he thought, swinging his sword for the flat of his blade to his Magnus’s horn, sending the magic into the colosseum wall. With another kick, Skystrike landed his hoof on his face and sent Magnus away again. Skystrike landed on the ground and stabbed his swords into the ground. He sighed. Loudly. “You know, I’m hoping you’re just old, and not overhyped stories. Any tricks you have up your sleeves, I’d recommend using them. You’re embarrassing us.”
Magnus grit his teeth. Charging his magic once more, though this one to an astounding size. Roughly the size of a Magnus himself, he split the ball of magic apart into dozens of smaller ones, these burning with arcane energy. With a roar, they were all sent Skystrike’s way. The first to come his way missed, though Skystrike realized as it passed by that they were charged to explode. He quickly picked up his swords and began flying around erratically. It seemed Magnus didn’t have enough magic to make the attack lock onto him, and was guiding them manually. Dashing, rolling, diving, and looping in the sky, the pegasus swiftly dodged them with astounding speed, making the crowd roar at the show.
The unicorn was tired, but kept forcing out magic at the Pegasus. Skystrike began diving towards him. Magnus tried to force his legs to move, but his fatigue got to him, making his knee buckle. Instead, Magnus knew his best bet was to shoot more magic at the pegasus. But Skystrike was prepared, pulling back his blade before slashing through it. The ball of magic flying in two halves behind him before exploding in a puff of smoke. Skystrike spun his body and used his other sword to slash at the unicorn’s side, making Magnus grunt.
Wordlessly, Skystrike continued his barrage, slashing and kicking at the pony in rhythmic fashion. The unicorn’s armor began to crumble under the barrage, Magnus trying his best to defend himself as he was thrown around like a ragdoll. Magnus tried to throw a punch of his own when given the chance, a right hook that would be devastating, but it was expected, Skystrike threw a feint. The pegasus grabbed his arm and spun him around before releasing his grip and throwing him straight up.
Wide open, Skystrike flew up above the rising unicorn. Right when the unicorn stopped falling, Skystrike caught up to him, wrapping his arms around Magnus’s back. “I always wanted to do this!” He couldn't help but smile at his devious idea. Skystrike flipped backwards as they began falling to the ground below. The crowd waited with baited breath as Skystrike turned his wings to begin spinning as they fell. “Fallen…!” Skystrike yelled as they approached the ground. At the last second, he released his grip on Magnus, twisting his own body and landing upright. “ANGEEEEEL!” He laughed to himself as Magnus plummeted into the ground.
The crowd roared as the dust settled, Skystrike twirling his swords in his hooves as he waited. “Wow… honestly, I’m impressed.” He looked at Magnus pushing himself up. “You’re a lot sturdier than you look!” He clapped as Magnus fell to a hoof.
Magnus groaned as his cracking armor began to fall off in flakes. Skystrike’s eyes widened, however, as the armor kept crumbling. A black tattoo of a hydra began on his right shoulder, the heads and necks of the beast snaking to his chest. Magnus forced himself up, then realized what Skystrike was looking at, quickly covering the tattoo with his hoof.
Skystrike was enraged, his eyes flashing white ever so slightly. It was him. He knew what happened that day. Stomped over to Magnus and picked him up by the back of the neck. He held him up towards the princesses. Magnus moved his hooves to try and loosen the grip of the pegasus. “Celestia, I assume you know what this is?” She looked at the tattoo on Magnus’ chest. She didn’t answer. Skystrike tightened his grip and threw Magnus on the ground in front of him.
Magnus coughed. “...You damn pegasus…” He glared at Skystrike.
“You know, I never said the reason I use my swords.” Skystrike flipped and looked at his reflection in the blade. “It makes things quick, and mostly painless for whoever I go against. It shows that the fight isn’t one I want to do, but instead, it’s one I have to do. Purely business.” Then turned his blade to see Magnus in it. “But you… you and I have a history, albeit maybe not directly… That makes it personal.” Skystrike dropped his sword and cracked his wrists. “That means I have as long as it takes for Celestia’s guards to come detain you to myself… And I plan on returning the pain you delivered unto us.”
He could see the fear in Magnus’s eyes, but those eyes were quickly replaced with swollen ones. Another punch connected as he saw out of the corner of his eye that Celestia snapped out of her shock, sending guards down to get Magnus, and stop Skystrike. But it was plenty of time for Skystrike to enact his own personal justice. By the time the guards pulled him off of Magnus, the unicorn was bruised, battered, and broken. Blood covered his armored hooves as Skystrike looked at the now purple stallion. Blood fell down Magnus’s forehead as both eyes were swollen shut. Four guards stood around him, visibly nervous from his show of force. Skystrike breathed in deeply as he went to get his swords, sheathing them. He turned around and walked towards the waiting room. He began washing his hooves off, looking at himself in the mirror. He felt… good.
It sickened him.
Skystrike snapped his head towards the sound of snapping magic, Celestia and Luna being the source. “Skystrike…” He knew that tone. It sounded like he was about to be scolded by Celestia. “What was that!?”
Skystrike looked back at himself in the mirror. “A duel… one that I won.” Then he thought about it… “Well, technically, no winner was announced, so it’s a tie.”
“Do you think this is a joke, Skystrike!?” Celestia stomped a hoof. “You beat a general half to death in front of hundreds!”
“No, I beat a criminal while under the rules of the duel I was challenged to. Nopony declared me the victor, Magnus was still standing, conscious, and thus, able to forfeit if he wished. But he didn’t, so I… continued.” Skystrike grit his teeth.
“Skystrike Nebula, we believed you to be a calm and collected pony, and yet my judgment of your character has been skewed.” Luna stepped forward. “While you may be right, your actions were irrational… We believe there is something deeper.”
Skystrike turned around. “Yes, there is. But that is not for you to know just yet.”
“Do not test our patience, dear Skystrike.” Luna closed her eyes. “From our talk yesterday, we are aware you do not wish to speak of your past… but if this behavior continues, we will be forced to act.”
Skystrike crossed his hooves. “I will not stop you if you believe that is the best course of action. I will also fully admit that if I met somepony like him again, I’d probably do it again…” Skystrike then turned to the princess of the sun. “Sorry to burst your bubble, Celestia, but I’m not that colt from those years ago. I am the manifestation of every choice I made, every agony I’ve been through.”
“Then stop dodging the question and answer me this, Skystrike.” Celestia stomped a hoof. “What did Magnus do to make you willingly beat him half to death!?”
Skystrike looked at her, thinking back on the memory. His eyes flickered a burning white. “The organization that Magnus is part of, Hydra, attempted to kill me almost three years ago, along with my friends in my mercenary group.” Skystrike grit his teeth. “We were happy, and then they, along with your guard, ambushed us! Jeshan lost his eye! Celeano lost her leg! Blades and arrows tore through us, leaving us half for dead! It was a miracle that we all made it out alive, but the scars still remain! All because he wanted to get to me!” He roared before huffing in anger. Their ears went back as Skystrike spoke. Skystrike clenched a hoof and stood up straight, regaining his composure. “...All that was left on who did it was their signa, that tattoo… mocking us. So I left, making sure my friends wouldn’t be in danger anymore. I knew someone in the guard had to be with them, and as soon as I saw that damn symbol on Magnus, I knew he at least knew about it. Does that answer… satisfy you?” He seethed. “Hear me out… I think trying to kill the most important beings in my life justify a response like that. Any other questions?”
The two alicorns stood in silence, taking in all that he said. There was so much they didn't know about him… So much that he wanted to keep hidden. But emotions were high right now. They weren’t sure if they’d get anything more out of him.
Stardust, the guard from yesterday walked in and saluted. “Princesses! Prince!” She saluted. “That butler and his child are safe. No attacks have been made on him-...” Then she saw the strained looks on Celestia’s and Luna’s faces. “Uh… Am I interrupting something?”
“No.” Skystrike said angrily. He grabbed his bag and slung it over his back. “These two were just making it known that I’ve done enough here. Stardust, sorry for the short notice, but we’re leaving for Ponyville. The train departs in three hours.” He began walking towards the exit, but then stopped. “And don’t call me prince… I abandoned that title long ago.”
Stardust saluted, albeit hesitantly. “...Yes sir.”
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“You can silence me but you can't silence the tru-” He was cut off by the voice setting being muted.
sao abriged lol
Haaaa~ can I have a ' piece '?~
Pfffttttt! Thash worseh!!!!!
Well, ain't that a fine howdoyado! "Oh hey, do you mind coming over for tea sometime? Oh by the way I've already got you a hotel room and an escort. So like, be sure to be here tomorrow!!! Kay, thanks luv ya baii!"
Right, okay fuck off.