> A Prince's Journey
>  by Frosthowl
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Prologue
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The doctors rushed through the halls with the Princess of the Night on a wheeling bed. She was going into labor and with her family and friends not far behind running after the hospital personnel.The princesses of the sun and Magic made their way through the doors, only they were allowed past this point, leaving the elements of harmony outside and the captain of the royal guard guarding the door.

"Princess, she’s in a lot of pain!" Twilight shouted out in shock from seeing Luna in so much pain from the baby that was about to come out.

Celestia knew from personal experience just how painful it will be... But she had a foal...not a baby. "I know, Twilight, as much as it pains me to see her like this, nopony has ever given birth to something like this...I do not know the outcome of tonight but it will be a tough one...Especially with Crimson out there..." Celestia said holding the hoof of her sister, trying to comfort her while she was in an enormous amount of pain.

Luna thrashed and writhed on her gurney, beads of sweat forming on her head.  "AUGH! MAKE IT STOP! MAKE IT STOP!" Luna cried out in pain, feeling herself being torn in half.


"Princess, can't we do anything for her?! Isn't there a pain relief spel!?" Twilight asked, almost going into a full cardiac arrest from the pressure of the situation.

Celestia could only watch her sister with a sympathetic look, helpless to ease the tormenting pain."With the child being human, the spell won't take effect on her as long as they are connected. The doctors are going to have to do it the old fashion way, though it hasn't been done in centuries." Celestia knew that there was a high chance that her sister could pop a blood vessel if she wasn't careful. Either way, this will be the most painful night of her life. And with Crimson gone fighting the dark Archangel, it’s about to get a lot worse...






Luna was lying down on her bed with Anthony carefully stroking her belly "Why won't you stay with me! The child is coming soon and I need you by my side" Luna said saddened that Anthony wouldn't be here when she would go into labor.

"You know why... To save our son,Equestria and Earth...I have to sacrifice myself to do it,and Legion will only arise from his grave to physically possess the child.If he isn't met with an immediate opposition he will permanently corrupt our son."

"You...You won't come back this time." Luna turned her body, facing away from Anthony to hide her crying face.

Anthony lowered his hand down on the bed as she turned away from him. It was killing him not to be there for his love and his soon-to-be-born child."I won't lie to you, I won't come back from this. But I promise you, I will destroy every last fiber of his essence until he is erased from existence. I promise that our son will be safe from the corruption of Legion and that Legion will never harm anyone again...ever.This ends today!" Anthony said with his fist closed tightly in anger and looking down, trying to hide his appearing tears.

Luna turned her body, facing Anthony again with a small smile."Pinkie promise?"

Anthony opened his eyes and eased his grip on his fingers, he looked up at the smiling mare lying on the hospital bed."Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." A cupcake appeared in his hand after he flapped his hands and smashed it in his face. Luna started to laugh from Anthony’s Discord and Pinkie-like humor."Its time!" He stood up from his chest and leaned his head down to the resting mare."I love you with all my heart, Luna,never forget that." Anthony placed a loving kiss on the lips of his lover.

He stood up and made his way door."Anthony before you go," She stopped him before he could leave the room, he turned around and glanced at the lunar princess again. Luna let out a deep breath before she spoke."I wanted to tell you that the one year I spent together with you was the greater than the four thousand years i've been in this world. Thank you for always being there for me, and... thank you for showing me the bright side of the moon." She stammered a bit at the end, it was obviously very hard for her to say goodbye to the one and only stallion she ever loved.

"And this year has been the greatest time of my life," he replied with his trademark, confident smile. He took a deep breath before going through the door."Good bye, my love" And so, he opened the door and left the room with tears he was trying to wipe away on his way out.

"Sir,are you alright?"

Anthony wiped the tears of his face with his sleeve before answering."Don't ask stupid questions, Captain." Anthony answered the captains rhetorical question.

"Sorry sir, it’s just... this is it, isn't it?" The pegasus saluted trying to keep his composure and look strong in front of his mentor and friend."Its been an honor sir!"

"Likewise..Vigile!" Anthony saluted the captain back and made his way out of the hospital.





Luna slowly opened her eyes as her eyes got less and less blurry and adjusted to the bright white painted room she saw all her friends and family in the room with her."Shes awake!" Rarity exclaimed catching the attention away from the baby in her forehooves. All the ponies went over to Luna who was still reeling from giving birth.

"Auntie, how are you feeling?" Cadance trotted over quickly to Luna.

"...Anthony?" She dizzyingly asked looking around for her lover.All the ponies in the room shared worried glances with each other as they were awake for something she wasn't.Celestia levitated a small living creature that was wrapped in blankets only revealing the face,Luna's newly opened eyes started to tear up from the sight of her foal..

"Its a colt!" Pinkie screamed out In joy but was quickly shushed by all the mares in the room."Sorry.." She whispered with her hooves covering her muzzle

Luna was staring at her newborn baby. She couldn't believe it, he had a small patch of red mane, or hair as humans called it and knew only one pony in her family who had red hair.. "Mother.." She whispered into the newborns ear as she grabbed the baby with her forehooves bringing it closer to her chest letting her heartbeat sooth the sleeping baby.

All the ponies in the room teared up from the display of a mother’s love for her baby.Celestia stepped closer and leaned down, bending her knees so that she could nuzzle her sister in comfort. "Have you thought of a name?" she asked with her motherly calm voice.

Luna was a bit taken back by this."Ehm.. Anthony and I never agreed on a name..All he said was: look to the sky when the moment is nigh.." All the ponies looked at each other in surprise from her statement."What did I miss?" She asked wondering they are all looking at each other like they saw the end of the world.

"How about Starfall?" Pinky asked with a squeak while biting her tongue in a giant smile.

The baby stirred in her hooves at the sound of the name, earning a smile from Luna as she nuzzled him."Starfall?" She took a moment to think about it. She looked down on her baby again."I love it. Prince Starfall.." She said to herself before snapping back to Pinkie. "But I have to ask, how did you come up with Starfall?" She tilted her head at the Pink mare with a curious look on her face.





Anthony was in the air soaring with his wings and golden armor, his helmet void of emotions as he stared at his enemy. He was badly wounded and wouldn't last much longer.

"YOUR MISERABLE LIFE ENDS HERE! ALL YOU HAVE EVER KNOWN, ALL YOU HAVE EVER LOVED WILL PERISH!"

"YOU'RE WRONG!!" Anthony yelled out. His chest swelled up as he sucked in air, bringing the Archangel closer and closer.

"WHAT!? I CANNOT MOVE...WHAT IS THIS MAGIC?!"

"Courtesy of Queen Lauren Lightbringer, this ends today!" Anthony spat at the fleeing demon.

He used his claws to take grip of the thin air but was to no avail..slowly but surely he wasn't escaping this time. "NOOOOOO!!! I WILL NOT BE DENIED! THOUSANDS OF YEARS OF PLANNING... THIS WAS TO BE MY HOUR OF ULTIMATE TRIUMPH!!!! NOOO.- NOOOOOOOOO!! The red skinned demon roared before he was absorbed into Anthony’s chest.

"NO MORE LIVES LEGION!- NO MORE LIVES WILL BE DESTROYED BY YOUR EVIL!!" Anthony roared out as he flapped his wings in full power to reach the upper atmosphere of the planet..He flew as far as he could but the lack of oxygen and the dead freezing temperature that should have killed him alone were making it a lot more difficult...Anthony took his last breath of air as this was it.."I WILL DO ANYTHING TO PROTECT MY SON!!! YOU CLAIMED MY FAMILY ONCE,- YOU WONT CLAIM THEM AGAIN!! THIS..ENDS..NOW!!" The entirety of Anthony's body started to glow blue as he was unleashing all his magic to pretty much a effect of a thermonuclear bomb..Nothing would be left off him..Not even the ash

All citizens of Equestria opened their windows and doors to look what was going on outside, There was a large blue glowing sun in the sky that was getting brighter and brighter until it exploded in a blinding blue light that spread like a giant sonic rainboom but a lot bigger,louder and with its blinding blue light which made everypony look away from the intensity of it. And as they looked back they saw that the star...Was gone.

> Chapter 1 Prince Starfall
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Canterlot hospital had never been so full and yet so quiet. Inside, many ponies were sitting around, nervously awaiting their first glimpse of the newborn. The distance between the ward where Luna lay and the surgery room was minimal, so the ponies were packed together in the hallways.

Some were doctors in full uniform who had only just delivered the baby, looking to the room, anxious to find out if they’ve done something wrong. Others were hungry reporters, primed with sharp pencils and clean cameras, their eyes glinting at the scale of the scoop. The only sounds that filled the ears of the onlookers were the distant beeping and whirs of hospital machinery, and Pinkie’s nervous gibberish to herself that went something like:

“Ohmigosh ohmigmhosh will the baby be okay he’ll be okay these are best doctors in equestria but what if something goes wrong he could lose a limb or an eye or maybe even his whole head and-” She would continue on like this until she ran out of breath, and would then take a huge startling gasp before gushing again. She was standing at the end of the corridor, as she would be the one to take the youngling into Luna’s room.

The doors to the surgery room burst open, and the corridor exploded into life. Voices went over voices and cameras flashed as 2 strong stallions in dark green surgeon capes pushed the small tram that contained the baby the short length to Pinkie pie. Despite all the horrible noise and chatter, the baby stayed in his slumber. Pinkie jumped up and down in giddy excitement. The tram was passed to her, as she treated herself to view the new prince.

He was little different from any other baby; he slept on his right with his thumb placed firmly in his mouth. His small white-feathered wings made Pinkie think of a baby angel. With that thought, she gripped the tram and dragged into the ward, closing door behind her as quickly as she could. 

"MAZEL TOV!" Pinkie yelled out as the baby came back from the surgery the book said he needed to take. The muffled voices of the outside did nothing to spoil the beauty of the moment.

Luna was resting in her bed while all her friends were looking at the baby."Aww he's sooo cute." Fluttershy leaned closer to get a better look at the newborn baby.

"It’s hard to imagine that someone like Anthony was once this little cutie wootie baby." Rarity gushed, "I can’t wait to turn him into the most handsome bachelor in Equestria. The first thing i'm going to do is style his mane and make him a whole wardrobe of the most stylish royal cloths." Rarity was at the point of squealing in joy from her plans for her nephew.

Rainbow Dash herself was overly happy about the baby's apparent growing wings with white feathers."Aww yeah! I can't wait to teach the little guy how to use those wings!" Rainbow dash threw her hooves in the air in joy.

Fluttershy was holding the little baby in her forehooves as all the ponies stared at Starfall."He looks so innocent." Fluttershy nuzzled the sleeping baby.

Applejack took a moment to stop looking at the baby and went over to Twilight who was reading through every detail of how to take care of a human baby book that Anthony wrote and left to her. "Fascinating.." She said as she read through the pages."It seem that during a humans’ early stages of development, the way they are taken care of can differ froms someone like Fluttershy to someone like his father.This is just what I needed for my research about the human psyche." Twilight squealed with excitement from the knowledge she has in her hooves.

Applejack was looking worriedly at her friends "As happy as ah am for Anthony and Luna, I can't shake the thought of what the little guy will be when he grows up.." All the ponies stopped looking at Starfall turned towards Applejack as she did have a point.

"My guess is that he'll be a big-strong gentlecolt like his father." Rarity said encouraging the sleeping baby with a small nuzzle."I don't see what you're worrying about Applejack, he looks so innocent."

"Sombra was also as innocent as Starfall..and look how it turned out for him.." Applejack said completely changing the atmosphere of the room."What am trying to say is that, I'm worried Anthony sacrificed himself for nothing.."

"He didn't.." Came a voice that originated from the bed where Luna was sleeping...She was awake.

"Yer highness.." Applejack recoiled, instantly regretting her words

She rose up from her bed. "Do not worry Applejack, I have complete faith in Anthony that his sacrifice was not in vain...We will never see Legions evil again." Luna caught the attention of all the ponies in the room as she was technically spying on them.Luna used her magic to levitate Starfall from Fluttershy to her forehooves. "Anthony died so that our son would be able to live a life free from the curse that was plaguing him and his ancestor Alexander, a more noble soul has never walked this world." Luna said as she looked down on her pure hearted baby.

All the ponies looked at each other as they noticed something was off with Luna."Princess are you alright?" Fluttershy asked the sobbing mare that was hiding her face with her mane.

Luna looked up again and revealed that she was crying."I..I just..-" She stopped and couldn't get herself to finish though her sobs. The baby woke up from the negative feelings that his mother was conveying off unto Starfall."No, Shhh" She rocked Starfall gentle in her forehooves.."Shhh.." Luna whispered into the baby's ear.

"Come stop your crying, it will be alright
Just take my hoof, hold it tight"

"I will protect you, from all around you
I will be here, don't you cry"

"For one so small, you seem so strong
My hooves will hold you, keep you safe and warm
This bond between us, can't be broken
I will be here, don't you cry, 'cause you'll be in my heart
Yes, you'll be in my heart, from this day on
Now and forever more"

"You'll be in my heart,No matter what they say,
You'll be here in my heart, always..." Luna finished rocking Starfall to sleep and all the ponies looked astounded at how naturally she put him to sleep.

The door opened up to reveal Vigile. "Your highness, The escort is ready to bring you back to the castle." Vigile said with a salute.





"Are you ready, sister?" Celestia asked her little sister if she was ready to address their subjects of last night’s events.

"I am" Luna said, keeping her serious composure and with her newborn infant under her wing. She took a deep breath and went out on the balcony where thousands have shown up to see their new ruler.

Luna cleared her throat to use her royal canterlot voice."Citizen of Equestria, it pains me to bear you these tragic news, but three days ago, at midnight, Commander Crimson Phoenix...Fell!" All of the ponies in the crowd gasped at the bad news, Luna could see her subjects whispering to each other."Do not despair my little ponies, BEHOLD!" Luna used her magic to levitate Starfall above her in the balcony. The crowd went silent as they saw the newborn foal.. except it wasn't a foal."Behold the next sovereign ruler of Equestria. Prince Starfall, my son!" The crowd started to cheer at their new born prince. They knew it wasn't a pony, but a human, something apparent if you looked at the muzzle.

"HAIL PRINCE STARFALL!" the crowd yelled out. Luna sighed in relief from the support of her subjects. She levitated Starfall back to her wing and went back to the throne room and put him in his crib next to the throne, She had a lot of paperwork to catch up with..

but was stopped by her sister levitating the paperwork away from her. "You are a mother now!" Celestia said to her sister ironically in a motherly tone."You can't be spending your time with official royal work when you have a baby who needs his mother." Celestia looked with a frown down on her nephew.

Luna was a bit offended. "Tia, I can do both!" She said, a bit mad that her sister sees her as so helpless just because she had a child.

"You gave birth to a baby three days ago, If it wasn't for my magic you wouldn't be conscious,  let alone be standing”

Luna sighed in defeat."What do you suggest I do then?" she said with a small hint of spite

"Take a couple of months off, Your child is your priority now, I've taken care of the kingdom for thousand of years in your absence, I'll survive another couple of months. Go to your room, rest and take care of Starfall."

Luna felt a bit taken aback by her sisters suggestion, She didn't want to feel like a burden upon her sister."I still don't see why we can't just get one of our maids to take care of the baby while I do my part of our co-rulership?"

Celestia trotted closer to her sister who was sitting on her throne with the crib next to it and the sleeping baby. "If you do that then the boy won't see you as his mother. He needs to feel his mothers love for him in his presence or he will grow up with you as a complete stranger. You have a lot to learn about being a parent if your going to be there for your son..And Anthonys child..."

Luna teared up at this. Her sister was right. If Anthony was there, he would say the same thing about how she needed to take leave from her royal duties to take care of their baby. "Alright Tia, you win!" Luna levitated the baby onto her wings. "I will be at leave from my duties for a couple of months then." With those words Luna made her way to her room to "Rest"





Luna was lying in her bed with Starfall next to her, reading through the book that Anthony had given her on everything someone would need to know about how to raise a human baby. There was one particular thing that worried her: So far there was no section on human babies with wings due to there never being one born with a pair. Just as she was turning the page of the book Starfall woke up crying for his mother. She quickly attended to him by trying rock him to sleep but he refused to stop crying. "shhh" She tried to sooth the baby but he wasn't stopping..´´Maybe he needs a change in diapers.´´ She thought to herself. she sniffed the baby..and that was just the case."By the lightbringer!" She recoiled back from the horrible smell.

She quickly levitated him over to table where boxes of diapers were and all she needed for a quick diaper change."Oh dear...I haven't done this since..Since Sombra was a foal.." She quickly remember how long its been since she last change a diaper on a infant. "Lets remember shall we?" She pondered to herself."First, remove the old diaper" Luna removed the old diaper with her magic, the stench alone could have killed or sent a pony into a coma. She used her magic to send the diaper to oblivion and she picked up a new one after  quickly cleaning his rump and powdering it and snapped the new diaper on him, But he was still crying...´´Was he in pain?´´ Luna couldn't get the baby to stop crying and tried to hush the baby.

Then she remember that he hasn't eaten in several hours..Luna was unsure how to do this..she had never breastfed and it was ages since she saw her sister doing it..She had no choice and had to try. She lied down on her side and separated her legs a little and let the baby naturally attach to her nipples that had started to grow in the past few months."Success!" she said out in joy with a smile as he latched on her nipple and started to suck the milk from her breasts.







diary entry #220432

Its been a long time since I last wrote in this diary..I guess, I didn't feel like writing after my banishment. Its been a month after the demise of Anthony. Starfall has mostly been sleeping, only times he has woken up has been during his frequent breastfeeding and diaper change..His mane has started to grow and with his sky blue eyes he resembles mother a lot..It can't be a coincidence...Maybe its a sign from her.. 











 Diary entry #220441

It’s been four months and he simply won't stop crying..Starfall has kept the entire castle awake for several days now and Tia came in my room infuriated that she wasn't getting her sleep, although I personally thought it was funny, she had a point. So I took him to a pediatrician today and he said it was nothing of concern. Starfall was just in small pain from his teeth growth. I am relieved that he has stopped crying with the pain relief spell I put on him, but I am still concerned when he will be ready to eat... meat. In the book its said that its common for babies to start eating meat at seven to nine months of age. I guess I will cross that bridge when I get to it. Tia said I have to start take my royal duties again, and she is right as always I haven't done my fair share of being a co-ruler of Equestria. The castle has plenty of maids..but I do not want anyone to take care of Starfall unless they are family..We will see if any of the elements wish to be Starfall’s caretaker.







 Diary entry #220444

He bit me! I was breastfeeding him today and while I was breastfeeding I felt a very sharp stinging pain in my stomach biting down on my breasts, Did he see me as his meal or was it a mere accident? His teeth had shown themselves now and I'm very worried that when he grows up will he accept the diet of a pony or will he be a monster that will eat my subjects? Only time will tell and I pray to mother that it won't be the case..Or else I don’t know what to do with him.











 Diary entry #220445

After several of hours of reading I found what I was looking for, And I am relieved to say or write, that the book says its very normal to be bitten while breastfeeding when the child is of age to chew and eat his own food, But it also means that I have to stop breast feeding him and change into bottle feeding. In the book it also mentions the diet of a baby..I was surprised to find out that it was mostly mashed up fruits, but its also written that he needs small pieces of meat..I knew this day would come and I have personally asked Gustav to prepare small pieces of meat. a package of chicken meat will arrive from Gryffandar tomorrow, I can sleep better at least knowing that he isn't putting me or any of our subjects on his menu...I wonder if he was a carnivore would he spare me? What Am I thinking! This is my son, he would never hurt me intentionally.







 Diary entry #220450

Why mother! Why have you robbed me from my love..I know his attentions but I do not understand how I can keep on going living an immortal life..I've seen hundreds of thousands of ponies or others die from old age...Will my son be immortal with me? If he would it would be a gift to me but a curse to him..He would see all his friends,comrades and family perish a thousand times with no end to it..I regret to inform you, dear diary, that I've been hiding my...moments... from the guards and Tia who asks about crying coming not from the baby, but me..I don't want to admit it but from my knowledge I would diagnose myself with postpartum depression..The baby has been affected by this and I am afraid if I don't get a hold on myself I will emotionally scar the baby..











 Diary entry #220454

It’s been seven months now and he still hasn't uttered a word. Thank Lauren for the book that Anthony wrote for me..I don't know what I would have done if he didn't leave it behind..Though I still wish he was here with me, he would be so happy to see his son grow up big and strong like his father. On a happy note I've found a nanny for him, I said I was going to have family take care of him but I guess Misses Doo will be a terrific nanny. Besides, she is married to Captain Vigile so I guess its as close as it gets. 











 Diary entry #220459

Today was the Grand Galloping Gala and I did not care to wear my gala dress, With Anthony gone now the event has lost meaning to me..But in a lighter note, the crystal ponies that attended the event came and ...Worshiped Starfall..With Anthony defeating king Sombra and being the descendant of Alexander who built it from scratch its not surprising that they came to show their respect, although I still think its..Wierd. It was good to see the elements again..It was quite a time ago since I saw them. With Legion gone..Equestria is quite peaceful.











 Diary entry #220469

Misses Doo has informed me that Starfall has started to slowly learn how to walk on two legs. he has grown up very quickly these past few weeks he has started to eat food. he is already taller than Skyla. I'm still waiting for him to utter his first words..I wonder what they will be.









Luna came back to her room after a meeting with the elected president of the gryphon nation. Exhausted from her day with politics from different races of the world, Luna decided to go back to her room to get a couple of hours of time with her son before the night was over. When she opened the door, she saw Starfall sitting by the balcony with Ditzy."What is my son doing by the balcony!"

"Your highness! Forgive me but he simply won't let me move him" Ditzy asked a bit concerned and worried that she might be in trouble

Luna was taken back by the statement."Won't let you? What do you mean?" Luna thought how a baby could forbid anyone.

"Everytime I pick him up or move him he starts crying..He's spent the past hour just staring at the moon.." Ditzy said more and more concerned and worried that she is in big trouble.

Luna widened her gaze at the sitting baby.."You are excused.." Ditzy bowed and quickly left the room to avoid getting into trouble. Luna trotted closer to her son who was staring intently at the moon."Starfall?" Luna knelt down on her stomach next to her baby."You like my work, don't you?" Luna said to her baby with a smile, not needing a respond to know what he was thinking."Your father did as well...He loved my moon and my night..He was always so intrigued by the beauty of it." A tear ran down her cheeks from the memory of her one and only love. Luna snuggled up to the sleeping baby...She wrapped her entire body like an arch around her baby and lay next to him as he was also starting to get drowsy."Good night my little Starfall." Luna kissed her son's head as he was lying on the ground, starting to sleep. Starfall was cocooned by Luna’s wings, lying on one with the other wrapped around him.

"Ma,-ma" He uttered and faded into the world of dreams.. 
	    
	    
	
	
> Chapter 2 Princess Skyla
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The train screeched as it arrived at its destination. "We have arrived to the crystal empire, please watch your step when you leave the train." The conductor yelled out as the large group of ponies that were riding along stepped out into the train station surrounded the platform with a group of fully armored guards, who were there in case the group encountered any threats.

The Platform was empty; it had been cleared out for the royal arrivals. It had been refurbished recently, so everything looked almost new. The benches were nearly in peak condition, the paint still had a new-ish glint and the cobbled stone they walked on was only the slightest bit dirty. The train whistled loudly, before slowly heaving itself from the station. Above the chugging, a young boy gave a loud groan.

The prince was in a bit of a bad mood for not being allowed to sleep through the day. "Mother, I do not understand why we did not simply fly here.." Starfall crossed his arms as he was riding on his mothers back.

The elements took notice of their nephews bad mood. "Cheer up sugarcube, ah bet the crystal ponies will be thrilled to see their prince again." Applejack said, nudging him a bit on his leg as she was walking.

"Besides sweetheart, it's too dangerous to fly with a carriage through the crystal mountains and at least got to sleep in the train." Luna said slightly turning her head to speak to her son who is riding on her back.

"I didn't want to spend the day in the crystal empire, I don't care about Skyla's birthday; she didn't come to mine!" The young prince was close to throw a temper tantrum.

"Starfall!" Luna said a bit sternly to keep her son in check. "Skyla was sick, she stayed at home because she didn't want you to catch it on your birthday!" Luna said lecturing her child.

Starfall was a bit shocked and saddened by his mother's sudden stern voice."I'm...forgive me." He apologized for his immature behavior even tho he was six years old, which is quite a young age for a human.

"No harm done, sweetheart. Just be nice to her on her birthday, and after that you can go sleep in one of the guest rooms my little moonshine." Luna smiled. Her son was at times a bit disrespectful because he’s tired, being awake at day for a nocturnal creature is hard, especially for a child.

"Aunty Twilight, when will I be learning under your tutelage?" The crown prince turned his curious attention towards his fellow ruler.

Twilight smiled a bit, thankful for the chance to teach someone about the world and magic. "Most likely after Hearth's Warming Eve." Twilight couldn't believe how fast time was flying by."Oh look how grown up you are, already going to school."

Twilight was about to shed a dramatic tear of nostalgia before she was interrupted by Pinkie."HEY STARFALL!" Pinkie screamed, popping up behind the prince on luna’s back. The ponies were shocked to see Pinkie’s rash and very disrespectful way of treating the Princess of the Night, but she didn’t mind."Your seventh birthday is in a couple of weeks!"

Starfall rolled his eyes, though he did snicker a bit on how the pink mare was constantly coming up with new way of surprising the young prince."Yes aunty Pinkie, you don't need to remind me, why wouldn’t I remember my own birthday?"

Pinkie gave a snorting giggle."Who would forget their own birthday silly?" Pinkie jumped off the lunar princesses and went side by side as normal again."I'm gonna bake you a cake bigger than you, you'll love it!"

"As long as it’s not hay cake I’m satisfied.."





As the group of ponies reached the border of the city, they were met with a crowd of crystal ponies who came to greet their True king. The guards that were escorting the group instantly snapped to attention and created a circular pony shield made of the guards themselves to keep the civilians at bay. "HAIL, KING STARFALL!" the pony crowd yelled out in joy.

"Oh my, you have quite the admirers, King Starfall." Rarity said with a slight tease in her voice."

Thank goodness you wore your newly made cloths, a King should always look his finest." His aunt said nudging starfall a bit on his foot.

As much as Starfall did not know about fashion he did agree that his clothes really did say royalty in look. With the prince's pristine white wings and crimson red hair like his grandmother he had a outfit with a large white coat with metal armbands, belt and crown with the symbols of the moon engraved on them as a sign of legacy and tradition, being the son of a warrior demands that he must wear them. But he didn't mind they did make him look tougher. Along with a white coat, he wore a small crimson red cape which suits his hair  which was medium long

The young prince dismounted from his mothers back and put his feet on the ground."Mother, may I address our subjects?" He asked with a curtsey.

The lunar princess rolled her eyes in a blushing smile, She had raised a fine prince. "You may, but stay behind the guards." Vigile quick as a bolt stood next to Starfall just as a secondary precaution. The young boy waved the guards to the side but still keeping the captain by him.

Starfall cleared his throat before speaking. "CITIZENS OF THE CRYSTAL EMPIRE! I am humbled by your greeting and affection. I am proud to walk in the city my ancestor built for you all. But today, we celebrate the gift that is Princess Skyla's birthday." Starfall raised his fist to the sky. "HAIL PRINCESS SKYLA!" The crowd took a second before responding.

The whispered around in the crowd before they looked back at him again. "HAIL PRINCESS SKYLA, HAIL PRINCESS SKYLA!"

The crystal princess went outside to her balcony made out of pure crystal with her daughter to see what the commotion was. When the arrived they saw a massive crowd of close to a thousand all cheering the newly arrived. "HAIL PRINCESS SKYLA, HAIL PRINCESS SKYLA!" The young princess was  thrilled to see her subjects cheering on her for her birthday. As the royal family looked over the crowd, they could see a group of armored ponies coming through the crowd. "Look who's here!" Cadence leaned down toward her daughter who saw her one and only friend she was allowed to have due to her royal status

"Starfall!" She leapt in joy and ran back inside the crystal castle waiting for her one and only friend to come to her birthday.

As the crystal ponies stepped to the side allowing the group of ponies and guards to pass through, Starfall caught a glimpse of the crystal heart...but also a statue that looked a lot like...Him."What in the name of my mothers moon is that?" the shocked child pointed towards a statue made out of crystal and gold with the form of a human with wings.

The ponies were a bit quiet when the prince asked about the statue.."That is your ancestor, crystal king Alexander." Vigile said standing by the prince's side."He was the one that built the crystal empire." Vigile spoke with a small hint of nostalgia in his eyes and smile.

The prince slowly approached the statue, staring while in deep thought. He stepped closer and read an inscription below his armored feet.

In memory of the crystal king Alexander, May he forever protect the crystal heart from evil

This was the first time the young prince had seen a full grown human. He couldn't believe how heroic he looked in his golden armor whilst standing on top of a block of shining crystal."My ancestor...?" Starfall muttered to himself in awe.

Just then a young filly ran down the crystal staircase leading into the castle with two royal crystal guards guarding it."STARFALL!" The little filly ran up and jumped her friend making him fall back a bit.

"Its good to see you too Skyla." Starfall said with a smile while rolling his eyes on his friends peculiar way of greeting a fellow ruler.







"And this present is from Starfall." princess Cadence said picking up a small black plastic case with a bow on it.

They were all gathered in the crystal palace’s magnificent dining hall. The room was crowded with tables of different sizes and shapes, as if it were a resturant. The floor and wall were a magnificent shade of red and the windows were all engraved with the symbol of the Crystal empire: The Crystal Heart. The group were all huddled in a corner of the room, where Skyla had graciously accepted and opened all of her presents, savouring the experience of opening each one.

As the young pink unicorn removed the bow on the case she she slowly opened up and everyone in the room were curious as in themselves what was inside..As the case opened up the young fillies eyes widened in amazement.Inside the medium long case was a blue diamond attached to a golden necklace.Everyone were shocked on the beauty of the gem. While everyone was staring at the gleaming diamond Starfall crept a arrogant smile."That’s a one-of-a-kind-gem, it’s a Sky diamond"

Twilight,Celestia and Luna looked at the young prince in confusion."I've never heard of a gem called a Sky diamond." Celestia questioned her nephew on a gem she has never heard off or even knew its existence. At this point all the ponies were looking at the young prince awaiting an explanation.

The young prince resembled his father, keeping his confident smile constantly plastered on his face."Of course you haven't heard of it, I created it!" Starfall exclaimed.

Twilight was taken back by his statement."WHAT?" she said, confused as to how a seven year old could create a new diamond."Are you saying you discovered a new type of gem!?" His aunt was at the verge of a breakdown from the new discovery.

"Yes I am, with a small chunk of diamond dragonscale ore and a regular sapphire diamond, I combined the elements with a surge of lunar magic and a small mixing of alchemy creating a diamond that absorbs the sun and moonlight, making it glow every time you are frightened or sad. And since I discovered it I have the right to name it and...Well I named it after you."

All the ponies started to tear up from the most generous act they had ever heard of. "Oh my gosh, thank you Starfall, you shouldn't have!" Skyla threw her forehooves around her friend.

The young prince wasn't one to let his emotion rule over who he was, but he couldn't fight back the blushing smile."Happy Birthday Skyla.” After Skyla broke the hug, Starfall cleared his throat.  “As much as I would love to be here and enjoy a slice of cake I would like to get some sleep, I've been awake for the past eighteen hours and would appreciate if you allow me to leave a bit early."

"Its alright Starfall, I know how hard it is to be awake during the day for you."

"You have my gratitude, I bid you all a good day." The prince bowed to his family before leaving the decorated dining hall. As the boy started to undo his fake leather belts connected to his armor on the way, he had a little trouble removing it. Distracted, Starfall accidently bumped into Shining Armor who had just came from the other corridor."My apologies Shining"

The prince was expecting the former captain of the royal guard to shrug off the little accident but he just snorted with a trace of hostility which the young prince instantly sensed from the so called Prince of the crystal empire. "Abomination.." Shining Armor whispered to himself but the prince heard it before he could go inside the royal guest room. Starfall let it pass through him as he was too tired to care for the least.

Shining armor was strolling around the castle being saluted by the guards he didn't realise that he was being followed."You know both he and I could hear you, right?" Captain Vigile said revealing himself in the corner of the hall which Shining stopped when he heard his Favorite acquaintance.

"Vigle, Its good to see you again." Shining armor said sarcastically. "You still never let the little runt out of your sight?" Shining armor turned to face the uniquely armored pegasus. "I see that your still wearing the armor the He gave you"

"Is that jealousy I hear?" Vigle chuckled a bit. "After all these years you are still the sad shell of a former guard."

"Careful now Captain, You are now in the crystal empire addressing a prince; I'll have you thrown in the dungeons if you don't watch your tongue!" He said with a strong resentment in his voice.

Vigile stepped closer, a little threatening but still keeping a good distance between the rivals."You sound more and more like Blueblood ever since you moved to the crystal empire, but it is understandable being the giant fraud that you are. Besides, You know yourself that I only answer to the princesses and the crystal king." Vigile said knowing it pisses him off to mention the fact that when Starfall is the true ruler of the crystal empire.

"I’m the fraud? the second you got your fancy armor and new rank you showed to have a bigger mouth than you let on when you were in dud camp."

"Look who's talking. Everyone knew that the only reason you were promoted to captain was because your sister was the personal student of Celestia and you were the Boy-toy of Cadence. You have a giant list of complete failures as captain of the royal guard. You couldn't make out the difference between your fiance and a changeling queen.-

"She used her magic on me!" Shining armor said in his defence.

"A understandable excuse but she used it gradually, you should have picked up on it. I also remembered you deciding to go along with the ceremony when you were fully aware that there was a threat against Canterlot." Vigile was expecting him to say something in defence again but he just stood there quietly listening."And lets not forget what happened during the return of king Sombra, You did literally Nothing-”

“-The only thing you accomplished was getting your horn covered in black crystals while Crimson broke every bone in his body several times and lost several limbs to fight someone who was A lot more powerful and stronger then him, buying enough time for your sister to bring the heart and Cadence to recuperate from her constant magic use. I'm starting to see a pattern here..." Vigile barraged Shining armor with memories of his constant failure.

"Sombra was that..Demon hybrid human monster's son..If it wasn't for him then Sombra would never have existed in the first place." Shining armor said trying to make his Speciesism against humans get the better of him."I don't understand how Celestia and Luna could even think the idea to even share the same bed as them..Let alone have That abomination as her son!" Shining armor pointed with his hoof towards the the guest room where Starfall was sleeping.

"Because what they shared was true love, Crimson would have done anything to protect Luna, and Alexander was no different to Celestia. Humans come from a world where they struggle every day with life and death and you sit here on a throne that doesn't belong to you, still playing captain because you can't accept the fact that you were banished from Canterlot and that you were the record worst captain of the history of the royal guard.”

“Oh yeah!? What did the humans do that was so much better than me?

Alexander sacrificed everything to protect Equestria and Crimson was no different. Their list of accomplishments are the reason that Equestria is the utopia of peace that it is today. The long hostility from Changelings is over, The gryphon empire won't ever be a threat again and the dragon king and his minions have been destroyed, along with the single most powerful evil that both the human and pony world had ever seen is vanquished....Do you want me to continue reading the list of his accomplishment?" Vigile said raising an eyebrow.

Shining armor was furious at this point but he was doing his best not to pick a fight with someone that has the power to defeat him."You're lucky that your human owner gave you that special power and armor, or else I would be teaching you a lesson in- Shining armor was cut off before he could finish his threat

"-No! You're lucky that Crimson decided to let you live, If you ask me for what you did, you deserve more than a thousand years exiled on the moon instead of just having your ranked stripped of you. I was there when we all found out the truth about what happened at the grand galloping gala." Vigile said, narrowing his eyes in a hostile glare towards Shining armor, but turned his back on the so-called prince of the crystal empire. "I swore to Crimson that I would protect Starfall from anyone that would ever consider the idea of harming him, and if you ever as much as think of raising your hoof against him I will be there to cut it off." With those words Vigil was done talking to the disgraced guard leaving him growling in hatred towards his replacement.





The cold breeze of the night wind woke up the young prince. Sensing that the bane of his powers and strength was gone, the young prince stood up from his bed with nothing but his underwear which, though he did not understand why he had to wear, he felt more comfortable with. Putting on his black fabric pants and boots along with a white long sleeved shirt. He left his room fully rested in the middle of night in the quiet castle."*Sigh* That is the cost of being a creature of the night, But I take pride in being a child of night" Starfall pondered out loud to himself.Tho he was curious..Was his father just like him? he couldn't stop thinking about the statue that was in display in front of the crystal heart.."Maybe I can finally find some information about my kin in this city...But where would one.- But of course!" Starfall remember that the two thousand year crystal ponies should know at least something about humans especially since their king was a human.

"First I need to sneak out of this palace...Easier done than said" He chuckled, his father’s arrogant grin returning to him.
	
> Chapter 3 Piece Of The Puzzle
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Starfall moved through the corridors like a shadow, passing by the guards without being detected. The corridors themselves were pitch black from the lack of lighting. But that was exactly what Starfall needed. Entering the dark corridors, the prince's eyes adjusted to the pitch black and his eyes changed from sky blue to a predatory yellow color that gave off a warm glow in the darkness.

Being in constant watch his entire life by several guards watching his every move back home, the prince had a lot of practice to sneak past the unsuspecting guards."If it wasn't for these blasted undeveloped wings, I would have been simply able to fly from my window..Oh well, guess that would take the fun of it" Starfall grinned mischievously. As much as he respects and loves his mother he felt imprisoned by the constant escorting of guards and rules that he had to follow.

"Now all I need to do is get-" As he mumbled to himself he ran into princess Skyla who was awake..

"Starfall?" The young filly gazed wide-eyed to see the young prince clinging to the shadow."What are you doing?"

Starfall used his magic to grab his friend into the darkness to let a guard pass by."Shh" he held her muzzle so she wouldn't be able to scream. After the guard had passed by he let go off her."Don't talk too loud."

"Why.- W-what are you doing?" Skyla asked again hoping to get an answer.

"I'm on my way to the local library, there should be something written about.-" The young prince hesitated before continuing."-my father... every time I ask my aunts or mother they just say that they will tell me when I'm old enough. Today when I saw the statue of my ancestor, I couldn't stop thinking about it. I need to know more about my father and ancestors. Promise me that you won’t tell my mother!"

“Hmm...” She said, purposely toying with the poor boy."Fine.I promise I won't tell your mom about you sneaking out, under one condition!"

"What is it?"

"I get to come along!"

The young prince sighed. He didn’t have a choice. "Alright then, Stick close to me and try not make much noise." Skyla squealed with contained excitement, sneaking out was something she had never done before because she couldn't get past the guards by the main staircase. She followed along her friend who was clinging to every corner he could find. If there was one thing the son of the night was good at, it was finding his beloved darkness.

"Hmm..two guards by the main staircase...we need some sort of distraction.." The prince looked down at the young filly who was wearing the Sky diamond necklace which he gave her a couple of hours ago."I could use your necklace to grab their attention."

Skyla grabbed hold of her necklace in fear for her precious gift which started to glow faintly."But it might break if you throw it." Skyla said saddened, she really did like her birthday gift.

"Don't worry. That diamond is harder than dragon bone, I promise it won't even get a scratch, you can ask it back from the guard later so you will have it returned to you." Skyla looked over the boy, ashamed of him for asking her such a thing. But she did want to get out. Reluctantly, she carefully took off the diamond attached to her necklace and gave it to Starfall. "Get ready!" Starfall threw the glowing diamond against the crystal wall up ahead making a large cracking noise against the crystal wall.

"Who goes there!?" The two guards rose up and slowly approached the location where Starfall threw the diamond. As the guards literally went past him by an inch, he quickly picked up the little filly so her hooves wouldn't make any sound. He carefully went down the stairs and was finally outside.

The cold breeze of the night rejuvenated him and the angelic glow of the moon shining down on him strengthened and empowered him."Starfall, could you please put me down?" Skyla said still in the arms of the young prince.

"Sorry!" Starfall sheepishly smile as he was enjoying the night too much."Let’s keep moving, the hard part is over." The duo made their way towards where Starfall would finally get his answers about his ancestor and where he comes from. Skyla was curious about his motivations, she did not understand why he wanted to find out about his ancestor so much.

"Starfall, why are you so obsessed with finding out about the crystal king?" Skyla asked as she was walking alongside the young human.

Starfall was a little taken back by the question."I don't have the privilege of having both my father and my mother. I don't even have the privilege to know who or what exactly I am..I'm clearly not a pony, neither was my father. The only thing I know about my race is that I am a human.” He grimaced as his voice dropped. “The only one of my kind.."

Skyla stopped walking, not expecting him to be so..lonely.. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to.-" But her young friend had turned to the ground, his mind filled  with the fantasy of others like himself.

"Do not pity me, Skyla. Who knows, my ignorance may be bliss." Starfall said, coldly staring at the path below him.

Skyla stayed silent for a moment, staring at the boy, trying to figure out why he had such a grim outlook. "Why would you say something like that?" Skyla asked the young human.

Starfall shrugged "If all my loved ones are keeping from me the arguably most important information about who I am and what I am, they most likely have their reasons. My mother and my aunts are no fools, they would most likely try to hide something from me if it wasn’t...Child friendly.."

Skyla stopped dead when she realized what the boy meant."You mean..He was a bad guy like Sombra?"

Starfall stopped as Skyla mentioned the fallen prince. He didn't consider the thought that his father might have been...A Disgrace. Above them, the biggest library in Equestria stood tall and proud, blocking out the moon. "We're about to find out" He responded ominously.





The Crystal Library was used the previous year in nightmare night. Around the library, lay four ponies with ghost sheets over themselves. The fillies were told to go on a ghost hunt and record the positions of the ghosts on their notepads. They all came back with seven-nine places. The royal pair were unaware of this story, but were frightened never the less upon entry.

They entered the crystal library, which was pitch black. Only the young prince’s eyes shone out in the looming darkness. Skyla was starting to get scared from the dark and badly lit library which looked completely deserted."Hello? Anypony there?" Skyla asked out loud which made the library echo in lifeless manner. Skyla was scared by the empty library. Skyla gulped before pulling her friends black pants to attract his attention "Eh, Starfall I guess nopony is home..Maybe we should go back to the castle." She said getting more and more nervous and frightened.

The prince rolled his eyes in annoyance from his friend’s laughable fear of the darkness. "I do not understand your need for fear towards the dark. You're just like any other of our subjects who shun the darkness and embrace the light.” In the quiet, Starfall could hear Skyla’s quickened breathing and shivering. “Get a hold of yourself, with the day gone, I have a measurable amount of power to defend you from any..Monsters" The prince said like he was giving up his pride to finish the sentence. "Do not worry Skyla, I'll be here to protect you." Starfall said forcing a fake smile to comfort his friends fears.

Skyla felt reassured from the young prince’s heroic little speech. "Okay Starfall." She beamed up.

"What are you two doing here!?" A loud granny like voice came up from behind us. Skyla jumped in in terror and ran out of the library before Starfall could stop her.

"For Celestia's sake!" Starfall groaned as his friend ran away. he turned around to see a medium old mare with glasses and a scroll as a cutie mark. "I presume you are the librarian?"

The librarian was shocked to see the crystal king in her humble library."Crystal king! Forgive me I didn't see you there." She kneeled down in both fear and respect.

"There is no need for such formalities. I am simply here because I am in need of your assistance." The prince lifted the kneeling librarian's hoof to get her to stand up properly. "Tell me librarian, what is your name?" Starfall asked with a fake smile to make her feel more comfortable.

"Agatha, your highness." The librarian was still a bit nervous around the crystal king."Em, beg your pardon your highness, but what can my humble library do for you?" Agatha asked with a friendly smile.

"I have come here to ask if you have any books on humans and any other information regarding my bloodline."

The librarian looked a bit disconcerted. "I'm sorry but there are no books about humans or your ancestor, King sombra burned all books that had to do with his father or humans." Starfalled groaned at the constant persistence off having his origins kept from him. Agatha could sense the prince annoyance. She knew that Starfall most likely never met his father and knows nothing about where he comes from and exactly what he is. She pitied him, deciding to do whatever she could to help the poor thing. "Forgive me Crystal king, though while I may not have the books themselves but I could tell you to my knowledge about humans and your ancestor in my own experience."

The prince looked back at the librarian with a joyful smile."Tell me!" He ordered her.

"Please have a seat and I'll explain everything I know about humans and your ancestor. but I warn you, this is not something a child should hear." The prince ignored the warning and sat down by the reception chair and eagerly waited for the librarian to tell him

The librarian cleared her throat before speaking. "Two thousand years ago, Equestria was under control by the draconequus Discord. He terrorized the ponies into disharmony and chaos. One day he summoned creatures from another world called humans. They were big bipedal creatures wielding swords and wearing thick armor. The humans willingly served under Discord and did every terrible thing he asked of them...The humans-” Agatha took a moment before continuing telling the story."-The humans...Slayed several hundreds of gryphons,ponies,cows,buffalos and drove the dragon population to a near extinction."

The prince gazed wide-eyed at the old mare, shocked to hear that his kind were bloodthirsty brutes. He didn't understand how someone could commit such atrocities. As much as the prince tried to compose himself he was a bit shocked over that his kind was responsible for such..Horrors. "But this is where your ancestor Alexander comes in. Working alongside the princesses Alexander turned his former warriors against Discord. And with their help, the princesses brought an end to Discord evil by turning him into stone and finally restore harmony and order to the land. " Starfall beamed, his kind had redeemed themselves."But not all stories have their happy endings. After a month. the humans were back on their aggressive campaign, killing any magical creature they could find." The prince’s frown returned, his kind once again proving themselves to be monstrosities. The librarian suddenly stopped talking and looked shocked as what was behind the prince.

"STARFALL!" A frustrated motherly voice yelled out. Before the prince could react a bright flash teleported the prince back to the castle.





Skyla ran out of the library as fast as she could. As she was outside one of the night guards who was passing by saw her. "Princess Skyla?" The guard looked completely confused as what the young filly was doing so far from the castle at this hour."What are you doing here?" The guard quickly went over to her.

The filly however just stood there quietly."Princess are you hurt? did something happen?" The guard asked wondering why she wasn't answering his previous question.

"No I'm fine." She said looking down in shame.

"I don’t know what you are doing out here this late but I'm taking you back to your mother."





"Skyla, What were you doing this late outside!?" Cadence gave her daughter the most disapproving of glares, of which Skyla fearfully turned away from."You know that you aren't allowed to go outside this late. Why would you scare me like that?" Skyla began to sniffle. Then came the tears. Cadence picked up on the filly's crying. She sighed heavily, then knelt down to hug her daughter. "I'm sorry I yelled at you Sweetie, but you need to understand that you scared me when I found out that you snuck out out in the middle of the night."

Skyla wiped her tears from her eyes."I'm sorry mom, I.-" Skyla stopped as she remembered that she had promised not to tattle on Starfall.

Just then Princess Luna came in the throne room. "What is the meaning of this commotion?" Luna asked looking at the three royal ponies.

"Flash sentry found Skyla randomly wandering through the streets at this late hour." Cadence said turning towards her aunt. But then she remember a question she had forgotten to ask. "What were you doing outside this late anyways?" Cadence asked turning her attention back on her daughter.

Before Skyla could speak, Captain Vigile came running to Luna with a shocked look. "Your highness, Starfall is gone!" Vigile said out of breath.

Luna widened her eyes in shock and fear. "Gone? What do you mean gone?" She asked the terrified guard.

"I came to see if he had woken up by now and when I opened the door I saw that his boots along with him are gone, Most likely. He has escaped again."

Luna groaned in annoyance from her sons constant rebellious attitude and Cadence looked at her daughter knowing she knew something about his disappearance."Skyla" Cadence said sternly."Do you know where Starfall is?" She asked full knowingly that her daughter was involved somehow.

"I...I.- I can’t say!" Skyla said to her mother."I promise I wouldn't tattle on him. Breaking a friends trust is the fastest way to lose a friend." Skyla said standing up to her mother.

"FOREVER!" Pinkie pie appeared out of plant next to the door. Cadence and Luna were a bit confused over the sudden weird encounter with Pinkie pie but quickly focused their attention back on Skyla.

"Skyla, If you don’t tell me where he is I won't bring him back to the Crystal empire again." Luna said harshly to the young filly. Skyla was tearing up from the choice she had been given, She promised Starfall that she wouldn't tell where he was. But if she wouldn't she would most likely wouldn't see him for a long time."Well, what is it going to be?" Luna asked sternly.

Skyla was beaten,"He....He is in the library.." Cadence hugged her daughter as she broke her promise. In a flash Luna disappeared knowing exactly where he was. Cadence spoke tenderly to her daughter; “There there, sweetie. You know it was the right thing to do...”





"-They could find.-" The librarian stopped as she saw Princess Luna standing behind her son.

"STARFALL!" Luna shouted angrily at her son before he could turn around to see who it was, Starfall was teleported out of the library.





The sudden bright light from the teleportation burned Starfalls nocturnal eyes. "AOW!" He covered his eyes from the bright room. As his eyes adjusted to the light and his eyes turned back to his beautiful blue eyes, he saw that he was standing in front of Vigile and Luna. "Mother?" He then realised he was back in the castle."Oh for bucks sake!" He yelled out in frustration.

"Starfall! Watch your language! You young man are in deep trouble."

"I was so close! I was so close to finally find out about humans and my ancestor.-"

"Enough Starfall!" Luna shouted, but to no avail.

"NO! I finally could have learned about where I come from and who I am and then you show up and steal it from me, what gives you the right to deny me finding out who I am!?" His sky blue eyes teared up from his disappointment in his mother to let him learn about his kind.

Luna was a bit stunned by her sons tantrum, he had never been this angry at her.But she was still his mother, and had to do everything she could to keep him safe. "I am your mother, I did this to-"

Starfall hit his back on the wall as he glided down on the ground. "WHY!? Why did you do this to me?" He tried to cover his tears with his sleeve. Luna was just shocked at how hard he is dealing with it. Obviously it meant alot to him, but it was such a burden for her to keep him from finding out about himself..But she had promised Crimson that she would keep knowledge about him and his kind from his son until he is old enough.

The prince stood up again, wiping his tears off his face and made his way out of the throne room.

"Starfall I’m.-" Before she could apologize Starfall had slipped into a darkened corner of the hall way. "Sorry..." Luna was heartbroken, tears were slithering out of her eyes. It was destroying him as much as it was destroying her to keep the knowledge about his father and species.





Dancing from one shadow to another the prince was Not in a good mood as he came to the room he was sleeping in, Shining Armor was standing outside his door."You!" Shining armor walked up to the young prince and grabbed him by his shirt, pushing him towards the wall. "If you ever come close to my daughter again I'll-"

Shining armor was suddenly grabbed by the his shoulder and was thrown against the same wall that he was pushing Starfall just a second ago. Starfall's eyes were switching colors from a yellow ember to crimson red..Cracking the crystal wall that Shining armor was pushed up against he was lifted up from the ground and his hooves were hovering in the air. Before he could speak or utter a word he was thrown to the side. "Get out of my way!". He spoke in a dark voice almost as menacing as his fathers. Shining armor was shocked by the young humans strength...

“Starfall?” a voice from the hall came in horror.

Starfall switched his blood red eyes to his predatory ember eyes to see who spoke. As his eyes adjusted to the darkness he saw princess Cadence and princess Skyla.”Don't talk to me!” He said harshly to the princesses.

Skyla’s Sky diamond was glowing intently, she was crying. ”I'm so sorry I broke my promise.” She stepped closer hoping that Starfall would forgive her. Cadence watching everything from standing next to Shining armor who was observing something that was going to his favor.

Starfall didn't answer and just opened the door to his room and slammed it shut. As he closed the door he just glided down on the ground while trying to die down the horrible feeling of being betrayed and robbed. The prince covered his face with his hand as he asked himself.

“Why...”
	
> Chapter 4 Cold Shoulder
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The prince was sitting in his room reading his compendium that he'd been given by Twilight while the own clock above him was persistently ticking. It’s been two months after what happened in the crystal empire and the young prince was still heartbroken over his friends betrayal. The book he held was boring him, as he gazed distantly at the pages his mind kept filling with derogatory thoughts about the treacherous filly, and her behavior the day after her betrayal...





The majestic sun rose over the Crystal empire reflecting a bright beam of rainbow colors off the crystals. The young prince sighed as his magical powers diminished next to nothing and his mysterious strength vanished along with it. The doors opened and there stood a white pegasus clad in his plated armor."I'm ready to leave." Starfall stated.

The pegasus just nodded letting him pass."We will eat a quick breakfast before departing."

Starfall rolled his eyes, he knew that he would have to confront Skyla and Shining armor again."Let’s just get this over with." the prince sighed and tiredly walked to the guard, dreading the day ahead.





The dinner table was single handedly the most awkward moment of the young prince life. While everyone was eating their breakfast, the prince was eating his dinner. Most ponies were uncomfortable with him eating certain pieces of chicken in front of them. Captain Vigile was sitting next to the Starfall, while Starfall was eating his weekly meat, Shining armor was glaring at him for what happened yesterday but Starfall threw a death stare back to make the fake prince mind his own business.

Skyla was also staring at the prince but more out of sadness then loathing. Everyone in the room shared glances at each other. Like they had expected it was the most awkward breakfast they'd ever been a part of. Twilight tried to break the ice by trying to start off a conversation. "Sooo...Starfall, I'm curious about how your nocturnal habits work?" Everyone looked at Starfall. He was contemplating jumping out of the balcony from the attention he was getting.

Starfall sighed before answering. "I have a inner clock that is telling me when to be awake and when to be asleep. And because my mother is the princess of the night I've been given certain..Advantages" All the ponies were lookíng at Starfall with genuine curiosity. “First I wouldn't be nocturnal if I couldn't see in the dark.-"

"Wow,Thats so cool!" Rainbow dash yelled out a bit impressed by the prince's special talents. "How exactly does that work?"

Starfall smiled up at his aunts interest in his abilities. "Well, My eyes first switch color..Like this." Starfall's eye color went from a beautiful sky blue into a predatory ember yellow. He instantly protected his eyes from the bright lighted room. "As you see, it comes with its own little weakness." Starfall switched his eyes back to his sky blue ones. "All darkness and shadows become...How should I say this, more see through and All lights become more intensified at the point of blinding me."

Vigile gave the young boy a supporting smile. "Sounds like something the royal guards could use, Celestia knows how hard it is for us guards to stay awake all night while standing in pitch black corridors." The captain gave the young prince a friendly nudge.

Starfall smiled up from the complement. "Lets see what other things can I do..?" He pondered to himself. "-My magic and physical strength is considerably more powerful, almost equal to my mother, but when the sun rises I lose it all until it sets."

Twilight was fascinated by how Starfall's magic worked..She had never seen or heard anything like it before. "And your strength?" Twilight asked.

"I don't know exactly..But I am able to lift my bed without any problems.." all his aunts were quiet as they heard that he shared strength very similar to Alexander and his father.





As Captain Vigile and Prince Starfall made their way out of the castle they were stopped by a young feminine voice. "Wait, Starfall!" Starfall stopped when he knew exactly who it was.

The prince turned around and saw Skyla with her glowing necklace. "What do You want?" He said with a very hostile tone towards the pink unicorn.

Skyla was at the point of crying...Her necklace was glowing intensely. "I'm sorry I shouldn't have told your mom where you were. But if I didn't they wouldn't let you come back which would have meant I wouldn't see you again." Skyla couldn't hold back the tears that were dripping down on the ground.

"The choice was either we were gonna stay close friends but wouldn't be able to see each other, or I would come here regularly and despise you everytime I see you..." Vigile saw the harsh confrontation between Skyla and Starfall and couldnt get involved at the price at being yelled out himself. "Losing a friends trust is the fastest way of losing a friend, and today you just lost your only one."

Pinkie pie randomly stuck her head out of the wall. "Forev-"

"Silence!" Starfall yelled at the randomly appearing mare which he knew was going to show her face the moment he finished his sentence.

Pinkie's serious look disappeared into a sad frown. "Ever.." His aunt quietly said with a sad tone and went back inside the wall which she randomly came out of.

"Lets go Captain, I'm done here." Starfall took one last glance on the glowing necklace with a diamond heart before turning his back on the crying filly.





As the ponies and the human went inside the train, Starfall immediately headed towards the royal booth which had a king sized bed and decent amount of room, but as prince started taking off his cloths he was interrupted by his mother. "Starfall?" Luna entered the room as her son was taking off his cloths.

"I don't want to talk to you right now." He said struggling to remove the leather belt on his chest.

Luna was saddened but more infuriated by her sons disrespectful attitude. "Starfall, you don't speak to your mother that way!"

"Right now I can't seem to care, As you can see I'm undressing. The only creature in Equestria that has to put on cloths on a daily bases and I don't even know why."

"I did not raise you to act like this!" Luna started to lose her patience with her persistent son.

Starfall stopped messing around with his shoulder belt and turned around to face his mother eye to eye. "Yes you did! You brought me up to believe in the virtues of Honor, Tradition, Legacy and Respect!" His mother was taken back by her son's outburst. "And right now I am furious because I don’t know the traditions of my father. I am also furious because I don’t know why I am even wearing these blasted armbands!" Starfall ripped off the armbands that were attached to his arms and threw them to the side. "I don’t even know why I am the only one in the entire kingdom that has to wear clothes everyday, but for as long as I can remember I've worn clothes." He let his words sink in for a moment before. "So you are wrong! You did raise me like this. And by not telling me who I am, you are spitting in my fathers name, And thats why I am so enraged with you!”

Luna was sobbing heavily by this point, her mouth was half open by the scowl she got from her own child.. "Surely you don’t hate your own mother..Do you?" She looked at her son just barely managing to hold back crying in front of him.

Starfall stopped undressing himself as his mother spoke.."No..I do not hate you..You are my mother...And you will be respected, but right now." Starfall walked over to his mother."Right now I need to be left alone." He wrapped his arms and wings around his mother's neck in a comforting hug."I still love you mother." He gave his mother a kiss on the cheek. "I need to rest now, I'm tired and I'm hurt."

Luna returned the kiss on her son’s forehead. "I know sweetie, I know." Starfall broke the hug and continued to undress.

Luna made her way out of the royal booth and when she opened the door All the ponies including Celestia were caught listening in to their conversation. "Lulu, we were just..- Luna didn't care and just went past the ponies that were listening in to their conversation and sat down on the cushy sofa as she looked outside on the snowy planes that they were passing which took her mind into a state of deep thought.





"You sure you don’t want to come along to the hearth's warming eve play? Come on it's your birthday and you wouldn't let us throw you a party. I don’t want you to spend your birthday in a library without any friends to keep you company!" Twilight asked hoping Starfall would reconsider.

Starfall didn't even flinch a single muscle in his body. "I don’t need or have any use for friends." The prince said reading a compendium of magical levitation. "I have power, strength, intellect and royal blood. I think I'll be fine."

Twilight Shook her head. "You sound just like me when I was asked by princess Celestia to prepare the summer solstice. I said that I don’t need or have any time for friends or socializing. But destiny proved me wrong and if it wasn't for my friends we wouldn't be able to stop Nightmare Moon."

The prince rolled his eyes. "Oh the horrors of a world where night is the majority of the day." Starfall said sarcastically. "Besides, I am equally powerful as Nightmare moon and A lot stronger, I wouldn't need your elements of harmony in the first place aunty Twilight."

Twilight was stunned by Starfalls pessimism towards the magic of friendship. "The point of friendship isn't power, Its a harmonious experience that can fill you with joy and happiness. If you don’t find any friends you'll miss out on one of the greatest things in life."

The prince sighed, This discussion had become dull to him. "You mean like when somepony is courted?" He said knowing that it would tick her off.

Twilight gave a doglike growl from her nephew's comment. "You know Starfall if you keep acting like this, no pony will want to be around you." Twilight looked angrily at the young prince.

Starfall smiled mischievously. "Prince Foolblood is by far the most unpleasant pony I've ever meet. But mares still find their way to his bedchambers." Starfall couldn't help but to laugh maniacally. Twilight just groaned and slammed the door as she left to town hall."I really shouldn't make jokes like that, but her reaction was worth it."





"Done.." Starfall finished reading the compendium of Levitation and shut the book. The prince stood up from the comfortable sofa and made his way out of the house. As he opened the door, it was dark outside and the street lamps of ponyville were shining very beautifully. "My favorite time of the year." He said with a warm smile as he scanned the snowy town. During the winter it was truly when night ruled over the world. the stars and the moon glowing a lot brighter and the days were shorter which meant that Starfall could be at his prime a lot more than he could during the summer.

As Starfall started to border the edge of ponyville and coming closer to Fluttershy's cottage to share a cup of warming Green leaf tea while spending time with his favorite aunt, it got darker and darker. The prince decided his amber eyes would be needed for the moment as his regular eyes were giving in to the dark winter night. "Much better!" He stated as the dark winter night seemed to disappear.

As he arrived to Fluttershy's cottage he saw her putting up a new bird feeder for the birds that didn't fly to the south. "Aunty!" The prince yelled making the pegasus stiff her wings and falling down on the snow. Starfall immediately ran over to help her up. "Aunty, I'm so sorry for scaring you." He lifted up the huddled pegasus from the mound of snow.

She removed her hooves from covering her face and smiled up at the sight of the prince. "Oh, Starfall, Its just you." She said relieved to see her nephew."I was just putting up new bird feeders for the winter birds that stayed."

"I noticed." He said looking down on the several nets of bird food."Let me help you with those." The prince used his newfound improved Levitation abilities to lift all the bird sacks on the trees."There you go." The prince gave his aunt a warm smile. "Now lets get out of this awful cold weather!"





As Fluttershy was preparing the pot of tea for her guest, Starfall was sitting on the couch waiting for her aunt. "There, it should be done in a minute." Fluttershy said coming back with a plate of sweets and putting them on the table. She sat down next to the prince but not before quickly grabbing a chocolate chip cookie.

Starfall looked at the empty cottage.."I came here because I was wondering how you were dealing With Angel bunny's-" he didn't finish the sentence, trying to be as gentle and sensitive as possible he let her pick up on the question.

Fluttershy teared up a bit. "I'm fine..He lived a long and happy life, I've accepted his passing away.." Fluttershy wiping away her tears.

Starfall was a bit stunned that she was taking it really well this quickly after his death. "Are you sure? Anypony would understand if you were still mourning." Starfall empathized with his aunt. She responded with a slow nod. "Aunty.." Starfall wrapped his wings around the yellow pegasus. "Its okay Aunty...Its okay.." Fluttershy, despite her being so timid, she did her best to hold back the tears but she could fight it back anymore. Starfall heard Fluttershy's sniffling.

The tea pot started to screech as the hot water pressure was alerting that the pot was ready now. Fluttershy broke off the hug as she heard the screeching coming from the kitchen. "Just a moment!" She flied back to the kitchen to attend to the hot water.

Starfall leaned a bit from the couch and peaked in the kitchen. Fluttershy was wiping off the tears in her face with her hooves, She quickly went back into pouring the hot water on two cups and put them on a platter and brought them to the living room. "Oh how could I forget that today its your birthday!" Fluttershy exclaimed. "Why aren't you at home and celebrating it?"

Starfall picked up the cup from the plate and started carefully taking a few sips. "Who said I wasn't celebrating it?" He smiled at his aunt. "I'm having a delightful time just by sitting on a comfortable couch and sharing a cup of tea with my favorite aunt." Fluttershy blushed at being called his Favorite aunt.

"Oh you're just too kind." She nuzzled Starfall in the cheek. "how are you doing in your studies?" She asked as she took a sip off her tea.

"I've been doing rather exceptionally well, I've recently finished reading the compendium of levitation and healing."

Fluttershy beamed up with a proud smile. "You're going to help so many ponies with your healing abilities."

Starfall felt uplifted by Fluttershy's compliment. "I'll be now of assistance to your critter friends and the ponies in the hospital. Imagine how much suffering I could relieve everyone." Fluttershy couldn't be more prouder of her nephew, unlike his father Starfall had a belief in the sanctity of life.

Her smile diminished for a short second as she still felt guilty for when Anthony fought the timber wolves the first time the ponies met him..He mercilessly killed an entire pack of timber wolves and didn't feel a single ounce of guilt about it and she returned the favor by using the stare on him and shouting at him after saving her friends. It's still shocking to see that her little human nephew was the polar opposite of his bloodthirsty father. Though Starfall was aware he was eating the flesh of an animal, he still felt guilty every time he ate. But Fluttershy understands that you can't change nature so she wont judge him for who he is.

There was a thought on Fluttershy's mind. "Starfall, could I ask you a question..umm if its okay with you."

"Yes aunty?"

"I was thinking about what happened two months ago in the crystal empire...And I was wondering if you were still mad at your mother and Skyla?"

Starfall didn't respond right away, the wound that his mother and Skyla had torn open hadn't fully healed yet. "I...I don't know..I don't know If I can forgive Skyla or my mother." He looked down in sadness. "I..I don't want to talk about it..Please let us drop the subject." Fluttershy felt a bit guilty that she had brought up this sensitive subject and simply nodded.





Starfall finished eating his cupcake and third cup of tea. "Thank you for the tea and cupcakes aunty Fluttershy, but I really need to be going now before Twilight comes back from the hearths warming eve play." He stood up from couch and started to Put on his boots.

Fluttershy flew over to the door and gave her nephew a warm hug. "It's alright. Thank you for keeping me company Starfall." She gave the prince a quick nuzzle on the cheek.

Starfall opened the little cottage door. "Good night aunty Fluttershy." The prince switched his eye color from sky blue to amber yellow again and left his aunt's cottage while waving goodbye as he passed the little fence separating her cottage from ponyville public property.

As he was about to cross the small bridge connecting Ponyville to the outskirts. The young prince senses picked up a high pitched howling coming from the forest and A louder howl. But was quickly responded with a monstrous roar.."RAAWWRR!" Starfall was stunned by the roar that came from the Everlife forest.

"What in Equestria was that.." Starfall had never heard a roar like that..It sounded like shattering glass mixed with a manticores roar...that sounded like no animal I've ever seen or heard...What was it..? The prince thought to himself as his curiosity was swallowing his common sense.

"I have to find out!”
	
> Chapter 5 Kill Or Be Killed
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The prince was struggling to walk on the bare fields of the snow to the Everlife forest. As the prince ran in the midnight darkness while it was snowing endlessly he hit his face on a barrier that lit up on impact. *Omph* he hit face first on the magical barrier to keep him from leaving Ponyville and keeping out any non ponies. The prince stood up and inspected the force field keeping him away from the forest.

"An impressive barrier mother, But I would be insulting you if I couldn't break it." Starfall said as his fathers smile started to appear on his lips again. The prince put his hands on the force field and focused his magic on nullifying. With the moon glowing as glorious as ever, the prince eyes started to glow with the same light as the moon and allowing him to channel enough magical energy to bypass a barrier put up by a demi-god. The air around him started to blow furiously and electrical surges from the amount of magic to make the barrier useless for an hour.

Starfalls hand went through to the other side as his spell finished. The prince didn't waste a second and kept going towards the origins of the roars and howls.

The trees in the Everlife forest felt like they weren't from this world...Something about them made Starfall feel less frightened, like he was surrounded by family. "RAAWR!" The shattering roar came again with the sound of barking. It was close by...





Starfall was terrified. What he saw began to shake him to his core. While hiding in a bush he saw a giant snow white lion twice as tall as the prince with a demonic look on his face, with horribly misshapen teeth and horns along with murderous red eyes and a reptilian tongue. The lion also had forepaws of a dragon and the back paws of a goat. But the most terrifying feature was its tail.. It was a living snake.."Chimera.." He whispered to himself very quietly. The chimera was facing two Large wolves barely twice as tall as Starfall.

They were staring at each other, both ready to tear the other apart. The prince had not been discovered yet and could have slip away from any trouble that would occur but a sight like this was one in a million and he wouldn't let it go to waste. From what the Starfall saw was that the other wolf was slightly shorter..Most likely meant that it was a she and the other a he. A good guess would be that they were mates.

The snake and lion were not gonna back down and started to growl louder and louder as he stepped closer and closer for a fight that would spill blood. The two wolves looked like they were protecting something other than their territory...But what was it? The lion decided that it was time to act and leapt forward getting a good swipe at the female wolf sending her flying a few meters away with a nasty bleeding cut. The male wolf responded quickly with jumping on the lion and biting its throat. but the lion quickly shook off the giant white wolf by ramming himself against a tree knocking off all the snow that was sitting on its branches. the lion was about to swipe the wolf on the ground but was pounced by the bleeding female wolf.

The wolf bit the chimera in the neck, making the lion roar in pain. The snake tail retaliated by biting the wolf on its back paw making it howl and lose its grip on the lion. She received another well placed swipe by the lion on the throat and fell, unconscious. The chimera turned its attention towards the male wolf again who had gotten up on his paws. He tried another swipe of his talons on the wolf. It dodged the strike and went for the lions neck. The white wolf bit savagely and tore out a piece of the chimera’s throat. As the wound bled heavily, it seemed like the battle was over and the chimera would retreat. The Lion roared from the immense pain caused by the wolf, writhing in agony. Suddenly, The lion darted at the wolf. He grabbed him and, to Starfall’s complete horror, sunk his jaws into his head and ripped it off his body. The chimera cried in victory as the blood pooled out of where the wolf’s head had once been.

No words could explain the feelings of fear and disgust that the prince was going through. The prince knew he had to get out of there before the chimera sniffed out any other mammals in the area. He slowly and carefully backed away from the bush while keeping his eye on it. But a large high pitch wolf howling caught the attention of both the human and chimera. The sound came from a very small wolf cub with similar fur coats as his...Parents. It was obvious that the parents were protecting the sound. At that point the prince realised that the high pitch howling from before was from the puppy and its parents must have come out to protect it. Starfall saw the gigantic chimera slowly approaching the mourning puppy, like it was enjoying its superiority over the ice wolves. What am I going to do!? he thought hysterically. He couldn't leave the innocent wolf cub to die...

The wolf was too young to run away, most likely a newborn. No, I must protect it! Starfall was terrified but he couldn't let the innocent wolf puppy die. He wouldn't be able to forgive himself if it did. "I...Must...PROTECT HIM, CHARGE!!!" he yelled out and ran towards the chimera which quickly took notice of his attack. The prince used his telekinetic magic to slap the chimera, sending it flying against a tree and breaking it in half. Starfall ran up to the cub and quickly picked him up and dashed away as fast as he could.

The prince could hear the lion roaring behind him. The attack did little to slow the chimera down and it was not far behind him. It was hard to run in a forest covered with snow and beneath every step could be a small hole or root which the prince could fall over and become a easy prey for the chimera....And that was just the case. The prince had ran as fast as his legs could carry him and the medium sized wolf cub in his arms. Unfortunately one of his feet dug deep in a snow burrow, making the young prince fall and dropping the cub who fell a small distance away from him.

The chimera was in a hunt for vengeance against the human that had attacked him and stole his prey. Starfall panicked and saw the frenzied beast closer and closer. He quickly stood back on his feet and used his magic to put the wolf under a large hole by the trees roots to keep him safe. Starfall was standing his ground against the chimera. Despite his fears against the monstrosity, he refuses to submit to fear and yield to death. He was fighting not only for his life but the life of a innocent newborn. The chimera saw the prince standing his ground and stopped in his tracks, He wouldn't refuse the challenge of another fight.

The chimera was still bleeding from his encounter from before and he didn't want to waste more energy on a growling match and quickly went for snatch and grab attempt, but the prince used his telekinesis to deflect the dashing lion to the left side.The chimera quickly recovered from the small misdirection and tried a swipe against the human. Starfall deflected the enormous lion again but he didn't do it fast enough and was mauled in the upper arm.

The surge of pain made the prince fall on his knees. He may have been strong and powerful but wasn't invincible. The chimera saw this and slowly started to circle the defeated child. He was taking his time to enjoy his kill. But while one of the combatants were savoring their victory, the other was despairing his defeat. I will never see my aunts again...I will never see Skyla again...They think I hated them...Mother...





Starfall was sitting in his near-empty room. His belongings which he had wished to be transported to Ponyville were already gone and the prince was taking one last glance at his room before leaving it for a long time. He went over to pick up one of his old toys and looked at it out of nostalgia. "Ignorance is bliss...Back when I didn't know the difference between red and blue." He smiled to himself. "My mind has been tormenting me with nightmares of me becoming a monster like my kin before me...If only I knew what happened after..Would my suffering cease?" He said to himself not expecting an answer.

The doors slid open and two pegasi guards were standing there with a salute. "Your highness, we are ready to escort you to Ponyville!" The prince put down his old toy on his bed and simply nodded to the pegasi.





The chariot was strapped to the pegasi that were going to escort the young prince. Starfall was gonna say his final goodbyes before leaving. He looked at his mother who was teary eye from her son leaving her, though it was temporary it was still very hard for her. "Be safe sweetie!" She wrapped the prince in her wings and gave him a kiss on the cheek. "Behave yourself now and promise me you'll be carefull." the prince felt his mother’s tear touching his skin. "I love you so much my little moonshine..Don't forget it."

"I love you too mother." Starfall couldn't fight back the tears. He had not forgiven his mother just yet, but he still loved her no matter what. He backed up a bit and looked his mother in her eyes that she shared with her son "I promise I'll make you proud." His tears dripping down his cheek while giving a comforting smile to his mother.





The prince was bleeding badly. The chimera thought that it was time to finish this and slowly approached the human closer and closer. Starfall clenched his fist into a ball that could crush rocks and his eyes were teary from his final moments with his mother. "-I forgive you mother.." He spoke. The chimera leapt forward with his right claw about to strike. "NO!" the prince snapped back into reality and used his Full magical powers to send the chimera flying towards a tree. but it didn’t stop there. The chimera was blasted away faster than the prince's eyes could see, several trees were broken in half and the ground made a quaking *BOOM*.

Starfall fell on his hands and knees after the immense display of his raw magical powers..He turned his head towards where he had put the cub and took him out of the shelter with his magic. The white wolf was sleeping. He smiled up to see the adorable sight of the sleeping cub. "You are safe now little one. Lets get you back to your mother." Starfall followed his footsteps from the trail that he had came from before.

As he came to where his feet had originated from before. His calmed state had disappeared as he saw the chimera again...Lying in the ground with a large pool of red snow that was half melted.."Oh..No,no,no,no,no,no,no,no,no!" He hysterically ran over to the body and put the cub back on the ground. "No...No.." His mouth was open in horror and shock from his action which led to the its...Death.."I-,m I'm sorry!" He tried to apologies to the dead chimera. "This,-" He was shaking and stammering uncontrollably as he spoke. "This,- This is not...." Starfall couldn't get himself to speak properly as his grief and guilt kicked in.

THERE HAS TO BE A WAY TO SAVE HIM!? he panicked some more before he got an idea. "Of Course!" He put his hands on the chest of the lion and his hands started to glow a blinding gold which his eyes suffered from but wasn't tended to. Starfall looked back and put his head on its heart, hoping to hear a heartbeat..But nothing was beating.."NO, I WON'T FAIL!" He yelled out praying that he was strong enough. He focused all his magical energy, summoning the glow of the moon and night. "Mother grant me strength!" A blinding golden beam was channeled to the chimera. The prince didn't notice any movement or twitches..he was still dead.."No, I WON'T GIVE UP!" He kept channeling his healing spell which was quickly taking its toll.

"Come one! Come one! COME ON!" He shouted out with tears going down his face. The prince fell on his hands and knees again from the overuse of his powers that were weakening him."No.." he softly spoke. He closed his eyes in his disappointment and shame.

But all of a sudden, he could feel a wet and warm sensation on his hand..He opened his eyes and saw that the puppy licking his hand..I'm...Sorry. Starfall stood up from his previous stance and lifted up the little puppy again. "I may not be able to save him, but I can at least bring you back to your mother." He said with a depressed frown. Before he left, he took one last glance at the dead chimera.."I'm...Sorry.." he spoke with guilt and moved on.







On his way towards the wolf mother, Starfall felt light headed as his wound was still bleeding gradually..He had forgotten to tend to the bleeding wound on his arm and he was too weak to heal himself. But the prince, young but smart, knew what he had to do. He first put the sleeping puppy back on the ground and took off his belt. He binded it around his deltoid and put as much pressure he could on the knot as possible. The bleeding would be slowed down but not stopped unless with stitches. "That will do for now." he said to himself.

After a while he had finally returned to the area where the chimera and wolves had fought. He could see the red painted wolf a small distance away. She was lying by the tree she had been knocked against and she had been bleeding...A Lot.

He carefully approached the wolf and was overjoyed to see it still breathing. "Thank the Lightbringer!" he uttered hopefully. The wolf woke up to my voice and started to growl furiously. It saw him holding its pup and started to bark. It tried to stand up but fell down, still reeling from the fight. Starfall carefully approached the wolf by offering its cub to her, calming down the weakened mother. Starfall tried to get closer to help the bleeding wolf but she started growling again showing off its massive sharp teeth. "Please let me help you" he pleaded.

As he stepped closer she started to sniff the scent that the prince gave. When the wolf realised just who the young human was she lowered her head and her aggressive stance was completely gone. "Thank you." The prince stepped closer and inspected its wounds, The bleeding gashes were something it would most likely survive..but there was one thing that worried Starfall in particular. Its back paw was completely swollen.."venom..." He remembered the chimera's tail that had caused the wound. "Listen to me very carefully, I'm going to suck out the venom. Do you understand?" He looked the wolf in the eye hoping it would give a slight nod.

She did and the prince didn't waste a moment to do what was necessary. "Prepare yourself, this is going to hurt." He put his mouth against the wound and started to suck as much venom out as possible. Starfall started to gag from the disgust, He kept going at it until he was sure he at least had sucked out enough poison for the wolf to receive real medical attention. "There! Can you stand up?" Starfall asked as he stepped away and picked up the wolf cub.

The wolf slowly tried to stand up on its four paws again but as she did, she collapsed back and started to howl out in pain. She looked at the prince confused as what to do and hoping he could help her. "This is not good...I'm hurt myself and if I don't make it back home quickly...I'll perish in the snow..." The wolf started to make a crying high pitch sound and looking at Starfall with puppy dog eyes. "Shh.." He hushed the bleeding wolf. "Do not worry, I promise that you and your cub will make it." he looked towards the snowy road ahead..But it won't be easy..





The wound had taken its toll on the child, He had gone as far as he could. he was carrying a newborn ice wolf on his blood drained arm and the other was dragging a 400 kilogram ice wolf on her front paw. Starfalls body was freezing cold and he knew that deaths grip would take him, his lips were blue and his face was pale white.. He had lost all his color in his left arm. But despite that he kept on going. As he came out of the Everlife forest, his lips could barly creep a smile. "Look we made it.." He looked back on the unconscious wolf that he was still dragging.

"Oh no.." He stopped for a moment and leaned down on her chest and could hear her heart still beating..But faintly..."Hold on!" Starfall said as he kept going towards the town but was stopped by the blue force field from earlier..."No..." He whispered teasingly. He didn't have enough power to nullify it..."So this is how the son of the princess of the night dies?" He fell down on his knees..Relented and exhausted, he felt like death was just right behind him, ready to put his hand on the young prince's shoulder and carry him away.





Starfall was sitting in the guest room, still recuperating from his friends very recent betrayal. He wanted to smash the entire guest room to pieces. But that would have to wait as his door was knocking on the door. "Come in!"

The young prince had expected a maid,cook or a guard to be the one knocking at his door. he did not expect to see Skyla's mother. "Cadence I do not have the patience for your lecturing for the moment."

"I'm not here to lecture you." she said walking inside and shutting the door behind her. "I'm here to ask for your forgiveness."

Starfall shot up at the word, "Forgiveness!? You think you can come here and apologies in the name of your daughter for her actions!?" Starfall said frustratingly and approaching her eye to eye.

Cadence kept her calm and just stood still. "Not for hers....For mine.." She simply spoke.

Starfall raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"

"I should have stepped in between Luna and Skyla when she was asking her where you were, I should have stopped her when she extorted her. And now my daughter is crying her eyes out in her room thinking she has lost her one and only friend."

Starfall didn't change his look. "Good, because she has." Cadence's eyes flashed with shock, but she kept her composure. Starfall went on: "I will not forgive her..But I will forgive you because you weren't the one that broke your promise and put a dagger in my back." He went over to his bed and sat down to read his books. "Now leave me be."





The prince clenched his fist tightly in self loathing...He now understood when something was outside your ability to act and you...break your promise. "I promised that I would save her...But I failed..And now...All three of us will die because of me.." With his last breath, the prince would die and Skyla and his mother would think he had hated them..."I forgive you Mother.." With his last breath and ounce of strength. The prince stood up and channeled all his physical strength into his right arm..."I...-..I forgive you Skyla!" He swung his fist towards the barrier shattering it in a titanic quake that destroyed the barrier and made the ethereal pieces fall down towards the deserted town.

Starfall was done...His body collapsed into the snow as all the memories of his short life surfaced in front of them...And most of them were him wasting it on reading books instead of living his life with his friends,family and loved ones..

Starfall could see death standing above him, he had come to claim the prince and he accepted it with dignity.

"I'm coming, father..."
	
	
	
> Chapter 6 Holding On And Letting Go
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As the play came to an end, music flooded the room with four of the six Elements of Harmony singing a joyous tune.

"The fire of friendship lives in our hearts
As long as it burns we cannot drift apart
Though quarrels arise, their numbers are few
Laughter and singing will see us through, will see us through
We are a circle of pony friends
A circle of friends we'll be to the very eeeend"

The ponies finished their song and the audience cheered happily to the performers. As the crowd was applauding, a sudden earthquake hit the town. Ponies started to panic and find shelter in case the earthquake was some sort of large wild beast. The walls and floor shook, startling everypony attending. Joy and merriment were replaced by fear and confusion as ponies started scrambling about, looking for some form of shelter. Foals cried out for their mothers, spouting out claims of monsters and windigoes.

Twilight watched the hysteria unfold in front of her. She had to step in and calm them down. "Please everypony, calm down!" The crowd stopped screaming but still remained hiding in their spots.

"What was that?" Twilight asked herself. Applejack, Twilight, Pinkie and Rainbow Dash made their way outside. The blue barrier, that Princess Luna had erected to keep wild beasts out and her son away from trouble, laid shattered and in pieces on the ground."What could have destroyed the force field?!" She pondered over what could have destroyed such a powerful barrier but quickly pushed those thoughts aside to focus on what mattered at the moment. "I must find Starfall. He and I together should be powerful enough to create a new barrier!" Twilight turned to her friends, each giving a quick nod.

Twilight galloped to her tree house, hoping the young boy was safe. She slammed open the door to her home and found it was empty. "Starfall?" she called. Fear and disbelief swelled inside her. 

"Starfall?!" she yelled out again, thinking that he might be taking a nap. She rushed into Starfall’s room, only to find the prince missing. Scanning the room, Twilight saw that his boots were missing as well, meaning he had gone outside. She a gave frustrated groan, knowing that Starfall had most likely been responsible for the situation.

She left the treehouse, heading back to her friends to tell them about the prince's unknown whereabouts. She arrived back at townhall, her friends waiting wide-eyed for what Twilight had to say. "Well? Is the little feller alright?" Applejack asked the mare.

"No! He's gone!" Twilight panicked. "We have to find him!" She said getting more and more worried about the young prince.

"Calm down, Twi!" Applejack grabbed Twilights hooves to her her attention, "Me and Rainbow Dash will go look for him! You go and alert the princesses! And Pinkie..." She stopped as she didn't know what to tell her what to do.

"I'll use my Pinkie Sense!" She said with a happy tone whilst jumping up and down. Nopony could understand how she could be this calm at a moment like this.

"Alright, girls! Let’s get to it!" Applejack reared before galloping off with her group.





It had been a few minutes, and the ponies were starting to lose hope. They had just been at Fluttershy's cottage who said he was with her just an hour ago, so he could have gotten far. "You guys, look!" Pinkie shouted, getting everyone's attention. By the edge of the forest lay three motionless forms. Rainbow Dash flew as quick as lightning, her fears coming true as she got closer.

It was Starfall... His skin was pale, blood frozen on his arm. The ponies arrived and saw the giant wolf and its cub, along with the human prince on the ground. He lay there, his eyes firmly shut as snow blanketed his pale cheeks in a thin white veil. Beside him rested a small wolf pup who had burrowed up against Starfall, comfortably sleeping beside him. The mother lay just a few yards away from the prince. She looked as if she was sleeping, though she was deathly still, the rise and fall of her chest absent. The trio looked almost peaceful, despite the frozen blood around the dead prince’s arm.

"Starfall!" The newly arrived princesses flew down to see their nephew and son lying lifeless on the ground. Luna didn't waste a second and jumped down, placing an ear on his chest. Seconds went by in silence. Nothing. "No heartbeat... No heartbeat!" She yelled again, despair filling her voice and her face stricken with terror. Like her son’s heartbeat, her world had stopped.

"We may still be able to save him!" Cadence yelled at Luna, snapping Luna out of her sorrow and getting her to look up. Cadence’s horn glowed intensely, and in a blinding blue flash, made everyone except the large wolf disappear. Now alone on the forest’s edge, snowflakes softly fell onto the dead beast, settling in her fur and dancing around her.





The group of ponies found themselves inside Twilight’s home. The limp human body fell on his bed with the princesses gathering around him. They didn't waste a second to take care of their beloved prince. "We need to start his heart again,” said Cadence, turning towards Luna. “Before we do this, Celestia and I will heat up his body, while you and Twilight try to shock his heart." With a tug, Cadence used her magic to remove the prince's shirt.

Celestia and Cadence's horns flared brighter than the sun, heating the room in its warmth as they brought their horns closer to the prince. The color of Starfall’s skin began to return, if only a little, but his heart still wasn’t beating. Luna and Twilight stepped in beside him. With only the goal of bringing the boy back to life, they charged an enormous amount of electricity and aimed it directly at the human’s heart. His arms, hands, and fingers twitched from the charge but didn't seem to give any noticeable effect.

Luna furrowed her brow. "Again!" She charged her horn for another powerful electrical shock. "Clear!" A bolt of lightning hit her son, causing his entire body to jump. She put her ear to the boy’s chest.

Her breath began to quicken as her body trembled. "He's... He’s still not breathing!"

Cadence closed her eyes and took a deep breath before opening them again. "Then we have one last option... We need to revive him," she said letting the words hang in the air. Channeling life was not something everypony could do. The spell itself was arguably the most difficult to perform, even for the princesses. The four alicorns charged their spell before releasing a blinding gold beam into the unconscious child.

The healing spell tested the alicorns’ magical strength to the limit. Even with the combined magical strength of the four most powerful magic users in the world, they might not be able to bring him back. Cadence's horn was first to flicker as the spell drained her of magic. She stopped abruptly and started rubbing her head, an intense headache forming from the overuse of magic. Though Twilight lasted longer than her sister-in-law, her stopped glowing with a splitting headache to go with it.

It was now just Celestia and Luna. Neither was going to give up anytime soon. Celestia loved her nephew and showed no sign of slowing down, determined to bring him back. Though, it seemed hopeless. Minutes later, she couldn't keep up the spell anymore. She collapsed on the ground, exhausted from her relentless use of magic. However, Luna was not stopping. Though her legs buckled under her, she kept going. She gritted her teeth, pushing past the pain. She couldn’t lose her son.

"Lulu?" Celestia asked her sister worryingly. She didn't respond as she was determined to keep going even if it was gonna kill her.

"Luna!" Celestia raised her voice again, trying to snap her sister out before she seriously hurt herself. Luna's snout started leaking blood. The dripping blood from her nose was the signal Celestia needed to stop her sister from killing herself.

"Luna, stop!" Celestia this time jumped between Luna and her son, cutting off the spell. Luna fell on her stomach, tears flowing freely down her cheeks. Celestia draped a hoof around her sister. "I'm sorry, Lulu. He is gone," she said as she too began tearing up at the loss of her nephew.

All the ponies were completely silent as the young boy’s death, words unable to escape their mouths. Luna stared in disbelief at her dead son. Unnoticed by the rest, the young wolf cub let out a whimper, sensing the sadness in the room.






"Where am I?" Starfall found himself lying on field of snow, though it didn’t feel cold. He looked up and saw that the stars and moon were gone, showing only the midnight sky. There was no one, not even a sound, to greet him. Starfall tried to stand up, but it felt like his entire body was strapped down to the snowy ground. "What is the meaning of this?" he asked, frightened as he struggled to move his body upwards. He couldn't feel his arms, legs, or chest. Panic began to set in as he choked down the horrific feeling of being chained to the ground, shackled forever to the lifeless realm.

After many futile attempts, he submitted his fate, giving in to despair. "Is this the spirit world? Has my demise arrived?" The prince lay on the ground, coming to terms with his worst fear. He knew he was dead, and the fact that he wasn't breathing was also a dead giveaway. A pang of sorrow hit the young boy as he realised he would never see his mother again. Hoping he would be freed from his imprisonment or given an answer to where he was, a bright white light appeared in the form of... a human.

His jaw dropped at the sight of the humanoid figure. He wasn’t sure who this was, but he had to ask anyways, if it was who he thought it was. "Father?" The white light did not answer. He just stood there looking at him."Father, is that you?" He asked again, hoping he would answer. His chest pounded as if his heart would burst if he didn’t get an answer.

The white spirit offered his hand to the child. Suddenly, his right arm was pulled free from the ground as he took hold of the spirit’s offering hand. Despite their best efforts, it simply wasn't enough. They both stopped when they realized they weren’t going to get any farther. "It’s not enough, is it?" Starfall asked. It was hopeless. He was doomed to be trapped in his snowy prison.

Another human-shaped spirit came from the distance, except it had black wings. The prince was confused of who this was, but then he remembered the statue. "Alexander?" he asked the spirit, who resembled the young prince more than his father.

"Do not fear, young prince. Your family will always be there to help you up, should you fall. Take my hand, return to yours!"

The prince tried to free his left arm but couldn’t break his shackles. "I... I can’t...  I'm not strong enough."

Alexander kept his left hand offered to his descendant. "You are strong enough. You are the descendant of the greatest warriors who ever lived. You can do this!"

Mustering his strength, he fought to get up, the Crystal King's words ringing in his head. "I will not be chained to death!" he yelled out as he struggled to break the shackles. "I am Prince Starfall, sovereign ruler of Equestria and son of Princess Luna! And I yield to... nothing!" He roared out with his Royal Canterlot Voice. The shackles shattered, and the prince grabbed hold of his ancestor’s left hand.

"Now pull!"





Sunlight beamed through the window. Starfall shot upward from his unconscious position, throwing off the covers that were placed over his head. He was in his room on his bed. Glancing at his right arm, he found his wound closed up, as if nothing ever happened. The prince’s eyes widened when he remembered the wolf and her cub. He didn’t waste a second to put on his shirt and boots before quickly leaving his room. Going down the stairs, he was hoping to see somepony with the cub."Twilight...? Spike?" He looked around the library, but there was no one."Where did they go?"

He opened the door that led outside and saw that the house was guarded by ten guards, all snapping to attention upon seeing him. One of the commanding officer approached the recently awoken prince. "Your highness!"

The prince's attention was focused on the guard clad in blue and golden armor. "Lieutenant Shieldwall? What are you and your platoon doing here?"

"The princesses sent an entire battalion to Ponyville after it was discovered that you had been mortally wounded. You barely made it... All of the princesses had to work together to heal you. They are currently at the cottage of the Element of Kindness."

The prince was shocked just how close he came to meet his demise. "Was... Was it really that bad?"

"Yes... Thank goodness you are well, sir!" said the lieutenant. "My platoon is ready to escort you to your mother." The guards regrouped five by five behind Shieldwall.

The prince rolled his eyes with a sigh "Fine! Lets just go already."





The group of guards and the human made their way towards Fluttershy’s cottage. On their way there, hushed whispers could be heard as ponies saw the human, wondering what had happened last night when the barriers fell. The prince caught a glimpse of a very dear friend he hadn't seen in years.

"Starfall!" The pony came trotting towards the prince. Acting on instinct, the guards pointed their spears at the incoming pony. Amethyst Star came to a halt at the hostile greeting, eyeing the spear in front of her.

"Stand down!" the prince roared out with the Royal Canterlot Voice. The spears were withdrawn, though it didn’t do much to calm the pony. He waved away the guards separating the himself and the jewelry maker. "I'm so sorry, Amy." He picked up the hoof of the middle-aged mare and gently kissed it. "How have you been doing? I haven't seen you in two years."

Amethyst offered a warm smile. "I see you're still as formal as ever." She wrapped him in an embrace. "I've missed you too, Starfall. The last time I saw you, you were almost as tall as me." Starfall broke the hug between him and his foal sitter but still kept his warm smile.

"As happy as I am to see you, Amethyst, I'm on very important business," he said, his smile slowly fading away.

She kept her smile and nodded. "I understand. Now run along." She ruffled Starfall's hair and trotted away.

The prince, however, fumed with anger as he turned to his guards. "I don't want to see anymore acts of aggression like that again! The next guard to aim their spear towards an innocent pony will be dishonorably discharged. Do I make myself clear?" The guards were taken back by the prince’s quick change of heart but nodded anyway.

"Forgive them, your highness." Shieldwall apologized for his guards, giving them an angry glance. "It won't happen again."

Starfall narrowed his eyes. "It better not."





The Lieutenant waited with his guards outside. As Starfall opened the door, he saw all his friends and family. "Good morning." He groaned before taking a seat, earning the attention of every pony in the room. With gaping mouths and wide eyes, they stared at him in shock.

"Zombie!" Pinkie yelled out running out of the building with a blazing trail. The prince looked oddly at his aunt’s antics, though what she said caught his attention.

"What did she mean by zombie?" He turned towards the other ponies room, still with mouths hanging open.

"Y-you were dead!" Twilight stammered. "How?!" Twilight once again had her episode, but was quickly calmed down by her mentor.

Celestia and Luna threw themselves at the young boy. "Don't you ever scare me like that again!" Celestia sobbed into his shoulder. The prince could feel his mother and aunts’ tears washing down his chest.

Luna leaned back after she had wiped off her tears. "How are you... still alive? Are you really here, Starfall?" Luna asked slowly as she put her hoof on his cheek.

"I... I died?" His mouth hung open as he tried to wrap his head around the shocking revelation. Memories resurfaced as he pieced them back together. Then, he remembered.

"Father!" he exclaimed. "I saw him!" Starfall stood up from the couch, every pony taken aback by his statement. "I saw him!" At that point, the prince remembered everything that had happened yesterday before he died. "The wolf.." he spoke slowly.

Starfall ran out of the cottage and made his way to where he fell yesterday. "Starfall!?" the ponies asked, wondering where the prince was running off to.





The prince ran towards the forest behind the cottage. The large amount of snow was making it hard not to lose balance, but he had to get to her. Off in the distance, he saw the wolf lying on the ground with snow covering half its body and in a pool of its frozen blood.

Starfall fell down on his hands and knees. Luna and Rainbow Dash caught up with the young human and saw how devastated he was over the death of the giant white wolf. Luna stepped forward slowly behind her son. "You did what you had to. If you didn't defend yourself, it wouldn't be coming back to mourn you."

Starfall's eyes shot open as his mother spoke, his eyes switching from their beautiful sky blue to murderous blood red. "You think I killed her?!" He asked his mother with fury burning in his eyes,

Luna drew back from her sons outburst. "I just said you did what you had to. Your father also protected himself and his friends from wolves, even at the cost of those wolves’ lives." Luna said thinking that it would calm him down. It didn't...

"Protect myself?!" he snapped back. "I was trying to save her!" The prince stomped on the ground with a thunderous quake that blew away all the snow from the field they were standing on and revealing the frosted grass beneath. "Do you think I would kill for my enjoyment? Are you afraid that I'll become like the humans that ravaged Equestria, killing thousands of creatures just for my own amusement?"

The recently arrived ponies saw the burst of rage and heard what he said. But his rage was quickly doused out. Starfall fell on his knees with tears flowing down his cheeks. He did his best to fight the sobs, but to no avail, he openly cried in front of them--something he nor any human had ever done in front of them.

Fluttershy stepped forward and hugged the crying boy. "What happened yesterday?" She whispered compassionately into his ear.





He sat next to the fireplace, softly stroking the wolf cub’s fur. The ponies all sat around Starfall, waiting for him to reveal the events of the night before. Starfall gave a heavy sigh and opened his mouth to speak, but quickly closed it again.

“Take your time. There’s no rush,” Luna said softly. Starfall kept his gaze on the young wolf, who innocently stirred in his sleep. He once again opened his mouth to speak, and this time he was ready.

“I had just visited Aunt Fluttershy and was on my way back when I heard a loud roar from the forest. Out of curiosity, I went through the barrier and into the Everlife Forest.” The prince paused, expecting an outburst from his mother. There was none. He glanced up and met her eyes and quickly looked away in shame.

“I followed the source of the roar, and there I saw two wolves protecting their cub from a chimera." Twilight gasped at Starfalls mentioning of the chimera. "He mortally wounded the female and killed the male by... by ripping off its head.” All of the ponies gasped. Twilight got up and wrapped a wing around him as he began to break down. Though he was sobbing, he carried on telling the story, knowing that if he stopped now it would be awhile before he’d be ready to speak again;

“I-I knew I had to,” he sniffed, “to do something to save the cub.” He choked back tears and moved on, “I stunned the Chimera, grabbed the pup, and ran away.” He allowed himself a small moment to let the tears die down.

“I ran and ran, but the chimera was faster. I finally stopped running to face him head on.” Twilight backed away now, giving the young boy some space. Starfall didn’t need to look up to see his mother’s broken heart.

“He mauled my arm and knocked me down. He was about to kill me when...” He thought back to when he had killed the Chimera--how he had forgiven his mother and focused all his magical power into the beast. The roomed stayed quiet as he tried to think of a proper way to explain it.

“When I instinctively focused all my magical power to defend myself and sent it hurtling through half the forest. When I made my way to the wolf, I found it with a lot of blood and... not breathing.” Twilight’s jaw dropped.

“You mean to say you defeated an adult chimera?!” she asked, shock evident in her eyes.

“Killed..." He corrected her with guilt in his voice.

“Woah, remind me not to tick you off!” Rainbow Dash joked before being kneed by Applejack, who gave her a “Now’s not the time” look. They turned back to Starfall, whose tears were gently dripping onto the wolf cub in his lap.

“I carried the wolf pup back to its mom,” he said shakily. “She’d been bleeding, badly. I gave him back to her, but I saw she had an infected wound. I tried to suck out the venom, but it still couldn’t stand. I...” he froze, remembering his promise. “I promised her she would... they would both live...” He once again broke down into Twilight’s wings.

Luna had had enough of this torture. She stood up, and spoke: “That’s enough, my son. You’ve done brilliantly already, but you need time to rest and--”

“No, Luna.” Celestia calmly said. “He needs to get this out now.” Luna reluctantly sat back down, and her sister put a wing over her, supporting her. Starfall took a deep breath, and forced himself onwards, the same way he’d done so that night:

“I carried them both to the barrier but collapsed due to my own wounds. I reached the force field, with my magic used up. I wasn’t strong enough to nullify it again or break it, so I knew that I had only one alternative left. I focused all my strength into a final blow hoping...” Twilight stood back in disbelief, knowing where this was going. “Hoping the barrier would break and you would find us in time.”

Silence filled the room. All that could be heard as Starfall’s words sunk in was the crackling of the fire. He wasn’t finished. “As I shattered the barrier, I fell on my stomach. My blood... Spilled. My body... Broken. And my life... Slipping.” Starfall spoke as he recalled his agony in perfect detail. Some of his aunts were at the point of tears from his horrible experience. But most of all, his mother felt guilty for not being there when her son needed her the most. 

“I woke in a snowy field, except there was blackness all around me and the wolves were gone. I saw a... a white spirit in the shape of a human, and another one with black wings." The ponies gazed even more intently at Starfall from the mentioning of Alexander and Anthony. “They helped me find my way back through the spirit world." A dead silence fell in the room. Starfall's family still couldn't believe that he actually died, much less saw his father on the other side.

“Afterwards, I woke up in my room and the guards escorted me here and that’s it.” Starfall took a shaky sigh, finally having that hellish night in the past. Fluttershy was the first to break the awkward silence and went up to Starfall.

“Do you want me to take the cub?”

“No!” he replied alarmed. “I am responsible for his mother's death. I shall take up the task to watch over him. It is the only way I can redeem myself. And just maybe, he’ll forgive me when he grows up,” he explained, once again tearing up. Fluttershy reeled back, worried that she’d done something wrong to cause the prince to cry.

Luna looked at the sleeping wolf cub... I don't doubt that it won’t be too much of a bother. The wolves of Equestria always were loyal to me. But perhaps that bond lives in Starfall as well? Luna smiled. “Very well.” Luna spoke calmly, “We shall keep the wolf." Starfall looked up at his mother. Then, carefully, he got up, walked over to his mother and gave her the cub. Luna carefully placed it on her back to tend to it during its early weeks. But before she could make her way towards the door she was stopped by Starfall.

“Mother, I forgive you for concealing the truth about my history, and I apologize for all the stress I must have caused you today. I would completely understand if you chose not to forgive me.” Much to his surprise, Luna embraced Starfall with a bone crushing hug. Everypony in the room smiled, and Starfall hugged back.

“I love you, Starfall,” Luna cried.

“I love you too, Mother,” he wept back.

Soon, everypony left Fluttershy’s cottage. As they walked a thought struck Starfall. He still needed to tell Skyla that he had forgiven her. "Mother, could you help me send a letter to Skyla?"

Luna put a wing around her son and smiled proudly “It would be my pleasure.” Starfall smiled and nodded, content with how things had worked out.





The following morning, Skyla and her father were enjoying some nice, cool lemonade in the sun when a parchment unexpectedly arrived and landed on their table. Shining Armor, expecting it was for him, immediately picked it up and opened it without reading the “For Skyla” tag on the front.

It began: Dear Skyla...

He instantly recognized the handwriting. He knew that it was the child prince that had wrote it, He read on:

I am ready to forgive you for your actions and start our friendship anew. I realize now that you were cornered into a hard decision and can’t be blamed for what happened. I will be busy with my studies but I will send more letter to come eventually.

Love, Starfall

Shining armor felt his daughters eyes on him, intrigued about the letter.

“What is it, daddy?” she asked.

“Oh, just a reminder about some meeting I have in the future,” he lied. “Nothing to get your little head worried about.” He scuffled her mane, and she giggled. His daughter then sighed, and grimaced.

“What’s wrong, Skyla?” He asked.

“Do you think Starfall will ever forgive me...” she said, looking distantly at the ground.

“Well...” he sighed. “We’re just going to have to wait and see on that front.”

“It felt horrible, breaking my promise.” Skyla’s voice began to crack up now, her tears glistening in her eyes. Shining Armor used his magic to bring his daughter over for a hug.

“There there, Skyla. Your father will always be here for you...” He turned her head so that she looked him in the eyes. “Starfall may not be your friend, but I will always be your BFFF.”  He smiled down on his daughter. He rolled the scroll back in its previous form. "Could you excuse me for a moment, Skyla?"

"It’s okay, dad." She smiled back at her father.

Shining Armor made his way to his bedchamber so nopony could see him. "You little worm, I won't have you anywhere near my daughter." He said as he finished incinerating the letter to ash.


End of Act 1

	
> Chapter 7 Time Flies By
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Act 2



The prince was running in a dark and snowy forest. A glass-shattering roar could be heard behind him as he ran for his life from the white chimera in close pursuit. He could hear a high-pitched howl coming from behind him. Starfall turned and saw that the chimera had vanished into the night. He slowly walked towards the sound. Starfall arrive in a clearing and saw the chimera eating a small wolf pup, and close to it was its mother...

"NO!" he yelled out, getting its attention. But the chimera didn't mind him and continued stuffing its face in the young cub’s blood. Starfall was horrified from the traumatizing view and fell on his knees with tears running down his face. 

"You should have been stronger!" A sudden dark voice spoke. The prince looked up to see a human with black wings.

"Alexander?" he asked hesitantly, still shocked from the previous scene.

If you were strong enough you could have saved her and the cub!" His ancestor judged him whilst looking disappointingly at him. "You are a disgrace to me and your father. I am ashamed to have you as my legacy!" Alexander kicked Starfall on his chest sending him on his back. "I will correct your father’s disgrace!" 

"Wait!" Starfall tried to speak.But it was too late. Alexander impaled the young human through his chest with a burning black sword. In a bright flash, he found himself in a field full of dead ponies, gryphons, cows, and dragons. He looked down at his hands and saw he was holding a black and purple sword covered in blood, his hands drenched in the same blood. He looked around trying to make sense of it until his eyes fell on her.

Starfall dropped his sword as he saw his mother lying on the ground. Blood soaked the green grass. He ran over to her and lifted her head from the ground. "Mother!?" he cried out with tears running down his face as his mouth quivered.

"Why, Starfall? Why… my son…?"





Starfall jumped up from his bed, breathing heavily after the horrible nightmare. He rubbed his eyes and saw that the sun was still shining down on Equestria. A sudden hot and loud panting could be heard as Frosthowl checked on his master.

"I'm fine, Frost." The prince dismissed his friend.

Frosthowl whimpered worryingly. He knew that his master was troubled with nightmares and wished that he could help him.

"Honestly, I'm fine," Starfall spoke again, removing the covers from his body. Frosthowl didn't waste a second to bring the prince his boots and socks while panting happily. "Thank you." He smiled gratefully and nuzzled the giant white furred wolf’s neck. He got up from the bed and helped put the saddle on his companion. "Let’s go!"





After taking the giant wolf out for a stroll so he could do his business, Starfall and Frosthowl enjoyed their daily trip from the woods back to Canterlot. The two were never apart from each other, and Frosthowl always stood by his master's side. When they arrived back at Canterlot’s gates, the massive doors didn't waste a second to open for the prince. The pair slowly paced through Canterlot’s streets. The older ponies who saw the prince bowed while the foals cheered for him.

"What do you feel like doing? We got a few hours before the sun sets and I'm not strong enough to play with you until then."

The wolf stopped his pacing and started sniffing the air.

"What is it, Frosthowl?" Starfall was suddenly thrown off balance but regained his footing after regripping the leash that was being pulled by the large wolf. Frosthowl ran towards a scent he recognized as a good friend. After running down the streets, he pounced and started licking a familiar looking pony.

"Get...him...off...me!"

"Rainbow Dash!" The prince happily exclaimed, dismounting from his wolf. "How are you doing?" He said giving the mare a hand to stand up. 

"I was doing fine until this white furball came slobbering all over me!" she said, annoyed from Frosthowl’s licking.

The prince used his magic to remove the slimy saliva off the pegasus and gave her a bear hug. "I've missed you, Aunty!"

"I leave you alone for a second, and you go and get yourself attacked by a wolf? How come I'm not surprised?" said a voice from behind. Starfall turned around to see a mare pegasus with blazing orange mane and yellow fur coat that stood out thanks to the blue rubber suit. "Hey, I'm Spitfire." She extended a hoof to greet the prince.

The prince's royal manners kicked in, and he bent down and gently grabbed the hoof. "Pleasure to meet you, I am Prince Starfall." He kissed the mare’s hoof and stood up. "And this is my friend, Frosthowl." Frosthowl bowed down to the mare. Spitfire blushed at the kiss and the unexpected bow from royalty and a ruthless predator.

"Wow, Dashie. You have friends in high places," Spitfire joked. "It’s nice to meet you, Starfall, but Dashie and I got to perform in ten minutes." The yellow pegasus turned around and made her way, but not before-. "Dash, get your flank back to the stadium!" She smacked Rainbow Dash’s flank. Starfall and Frosthowl looked at each other in discomfort. He knew that kind of interaction was between couples or lovers.

"Wait, I know!" Rainbow Dash said out loud, getting the attention of Spitfire and Starfall. "How about I get you some some tickets for the show and you can see me and my awesome skills."

"Ehm… I don't know. No offense, but I never found any interest in the Wonderbolts performance." The prince said uncomfortably.

"Then don't come to watch the Wonderbolts. Come to watch me. Please?" Rainbow Dash squeaked with her puppy dog eyes.

Starfall smiled. "Alright, Aunty. Just for you."





Starfall was sitting in a VIP booth with Frosthowl. He could see that he was given sideways glances from the high society ponies in the booth next to him. The day was at the point of twilight, and he could feel his superior strength and power slowly returning to him as the sun was setting on Equestria.

FILLIES AND GENTLECOLTS! MAY I PRESENT TO YOU, THE WONDERBOLTS!" The announcer yelled out in his headpiece.

The Wonderbolts flew out at an incredible speed that made the prince jump up in excitement. He could easily spot his aunt’s rainbow trail apart from the Wonderbolts’ electrical clouds. The flyers were doing some incredible tricks and death defying stunts that made the prince cheer for them.

Rainbow Dash’s trick included speeding through rings of fire without slowing down. Spitfire was strapped to a wheel and spun around and around and flung into the air before quickly zooming in between poles, making accurate turns, unfazed by her dizziness.

After a few minutes of each of the Wonderbolts showing their signature moves, it was time for the grand finale. "This is for you, Starfall!" shouted Rainbow Dash. She flew insanely fast up over the stadium and above the clouds. Starfall was confused. He didn't understand why his aunt just up and left. Suddenly, a quaking sound could be heard all throughout the stadium as Rainbow Dash flew down at a very fast speed. Starfall narrowed his eyes and saw that she was gathering a lot of acceleration. 

Unknown to the spectators, Rainbow Dash didn't have enough speed, but she was too stubborn to let her nephew and fans down. She was going to risk it. Starfall saw the electrical buildup at his aunts hooves and was expecting something incredible to occur in the coming few seconds.

"Come on! COME ON!” Rainbow dash yelled, hoping that she would hit the sound barrier before. She came closer and closer to the ground as the electrical buildup got bigger but it was too late. A large quaking *BOOM*

All the spectator and the prince were blinded by the rainbow-colored explosion. When they looked back, they saw a crater in the stadium ground. The ponies all gasped as they saw the seriously injured pegasus inside the crater.

"AUNTY!" the prince yelled out in horror. He looked down from his VIP booth. There wasn't enough time to ride down the staircase. The prince took a deep breath to sum up the courage to jump down. 

Starfall spread his wings and jumped over the small fence. The crowd saw the human gliding down to the ground. His landing was very misplaced, and he tumbled but quickly got back to his feet. He saw the medic unicorns ready to heal the severely injured pegasus. Two guards stood in his way. "Your highness, please stand back!" they ordered the prince. He backed up and worryingly looked on as the unicorn’s white healing magic gently flowed into his aunt. Rainbow Dash lay still with them trying to heal her injuries.

Spitfire landed beside Starfall, her heart in her mouth. “Will she be okay?” Still, the medics white magic flowed into Rainbow, and still, the pony lay lifeless on the ground. Starfall heard Spitfire’s breathing growing faster. “WILL SHE BE OKAY?!” she screamed. Rainbow Dash lay still.

Starfall saw how the medics were not powerful enough to heal the grave wounds. Starfall looked at his unconscious aunt, a blank look on his face as Rainbow Dash began changing. Her blue fur greyed, then whitened. She grew longer, and her paws grew out claws. The snow wolf’s eyes opened, and pierced through Starfall. It was Frosthowl’s mother.

"Get her to the hospital immediately!" One of the unicorns shouted out, snapping him back to reality. The prince felt a slight headache in his head as he realized it was all just a vision.

Starfall quickly got his mind back into the situation. "No!" the prince objected. "I can save her. I will save her." The unicorns stood back as they saw Starfall radiating a white light. I will not fail… Not again! The prince thought to himself as his wings started to catch fire and his hands glowed bright gold. The moon shone down on the Starfall and he felt a surge of power he had never felt before, like he could move both the sun and the moon. The prince absorbed the fire and light into a golden beam that blinded everyone in the stadium.

As the flash dissipated, everyone looked at the weakened prince. Starfall glanced at his aunt. She lay motionless in the crater still. Spitfire let out an awful groan of sadness as tears began to well up in Starfall’s eyes. Then, as if it were a miracle, Rainbow Dash’s eyes slowly flickered and opened. She weakly groaned: “I’ve heard of a knock-out performance, but this definitely takes the cake...” 

The crowd roared as Starfall realized he had done it. Before he could celebrate, he was tackled by Spitfire who was kissing him repeatedly on the cheek.”Thankyouthankyouthankyouthankyou!” she cried. The stadium was cheering happily at the recovery of Rainbow Dash, but Starfall was blushing furiously with his mouth open in discomfort from Spitfire’s kissing.

“Hey, quit messin’ with my mare friend,” Rainbow Dash said, breaking the awkward interaction.

Starfall broke from his blushing state and threw himself at his aunt “Oh, thank the Lightbringer you're alright!”

“Okay, you can stop with the mushy hug now,” Rainbow said jokingly. “Did everyone have a great time?” she asked, trying to break the tension of her reckless stunt.

Starfall snapped back at her statement “Are you insane? You almost died because you were too busy trying to make sure everyone got their money’s worth.”

An arrogant smile crept on her face. “Well, how was it?”

Starfall was a bit stunned from the question, but he was going to answer it honestly. “It was… exhilarating,” he responded, recollecting the memories of seeing them risk their lives.

“Well? Are we going to have a three way in front of the entire stadium or are we gonna hit the showers already?” Spitfire said, making the human break mentally.”Guess not.” She flew back to the dressing room.

“Aunt, you certainly have… interesting friends.”

Rainbow Dash’s laughing smile went away into a serious aggressive stare. “Oh yeah?! what makes you say that?”

The prince glanced at the general area that the mare had flown to. “I don't know why… But I like her.”

His aunts previous aggressive stance was completely replaced with a fit of laughter. “Guess you’re a sucker for the bad mare, eh?” She kept rolling on the floor in laughter while Starfall rolled his eyes in a sigh.






“Well, I gotta head back home, Spitfire is cooking something up for my… pain.” Rainbow dash smiled at her mare friend who gave a wink back.

Starfall begged that the innuendos would end. He didn't have a problem with them, but when it concerned family like Rainbow Dash, he felt very uncomfortable. “Very well, Aunty. Just promise me you won't risk your life like that again to impress a few ponies.”

“Are you kidding!? I got a reputation to keep up!” she arrogantly replied, ignoring the fact that she almost died an hour ago. “Plus, I gotta make sure these ponies get their money’s worth.”

“But you're more worth to me then all the treasure in the royal archives. Please, for me?” He gave his aunt the cutest puppy dog eyes he could muster, breaking the cyan pegasus’s will. 

“Alright! Alright!” she said, trying to keep up her thick-shelled persona. “Bye little- well, guess its big guy now, eh?” She smiled complementing the human’s recent growth. “Bye big guy.” She hugged her nephew goodbye. 

“Bye Aunty Dash!” He hugged her back with his wings and arms. The cyan pegasus turned her back on the human and slowly trotted away with her mare friend. His ears caught the sound of them chattering behind his back from a small distance away.

“You know… He could make tonight a bit more entertaining.” Starfall facepalmed at the comment from Spitfire. 

“Mares...” He rolled his eyes from the uncomfortable knowledge that he did not need to know. “Lets go home, Frosthowl!”






Starfall arrived back to the royal courtyard to wrestle with Frosthowl but saw that the courtyard had something newly added to it. The prince dropped the enchanted rope that he used for pulling contests against his companion.

“The princesses thought you might like it.” A voice came behind the amazed human. Starfall slowly turned around to see a medium-sized teenage dragon who was taller then the prince, wearing plated armor and a sheathed sword.

“Spike! You finished dud camp?”

“Oh yeah!” he said confidently.

The prince looked at Frosthowl with a malicious smile. “Well then, lets see what they taught you while you were there.” His malevolent grin grew even bigger. “Frosthowl… Play.” He pointed towards the teenage dragon who flinched at the command. Spike ran off with Frosthowl chasing after him, though with no intention to actually hurt the young teenage dragon.

Starfall stepped closer to see the statues from before, and he saw the inscriptions and what they made out to be.

The statue looked up towards the sun with its diamond sword pointing towards the sky in a victorious pose--Crystal King Alexander, The Dawn of Hope. The inscription on its block read:

“Do not fight for Duty or honor, Fight for a brighter tomorrow.”

The young prince bowed to the statute in respect. “I am humbled to be your legacy, great one.” The prince could feel the serenity of the moment beaming down on him. He understood why the crystal ponies saw him as their true king, and this gave him new clarity to why they worshiped him as they do. Starfall turned to the other golden statue.


The statue was a bit more muscular in tone compared to the other two--Commander Dawn Fury, Wrath of Righteousness. He had no mane and had a slight build of facial hair that resembled an earth pony-styled beard. He was riding on top of what looked like Celestia whilst above a dragon and with his sword about to slay a dragon. The inscription read:

“If you kill me I’ll drag you down to hell!”

Starfall was a bit confused to what “hell” was, but the realization hit him quickly. ‘’Maybe it’s a human translation for Tartarus?’’ he thought to himself.”You both died.” He mentioned the dragon and human who obviously aren't around anymore. ”Thank you for your sacrifice, Commander!” The prince bowed in respect towards the second human figurine. “I hope I will learn more about you soon enough. Just six more months...”

The last one looked a lot like the white spirit that he saw in the spirit world five years ago--Commander Crimson Phoenix, Bane of Evil. The statue was holding two swords facing the ground. One looked like it was cut out of diamonds and stars while the other one looked like it was forged in the deepest gorge in Tartarus.”Such a horrifying weapon.” The sword was shattered in two, representing the defeat of evil. “Good riddance,” he commented at the abomination of metal. But when he took a closer look, he realized something horrifying.

“That’s… That’s the sword from my dreams!” He stared at it in shock. “What does it mean?!” he said out loud. He looked down on the block and read the final inscription. 

“I fight and die for my family and friends so they can enjoy good things in life while being ignorant to its horrors!”

“Father...?” The prince stared at the statue and from its pose he looked… depressed. The prince couldn't see his face or hair. It was covered behind a dragon head helmet that darkened his face. The prince’s nocturnal eyes could only see a blank face with no lips, eyes or nose. “I should have known,” he thought to himself as he was disappointed from the faceless statue.

Frosthowl returned with Spike on top of him. “That was so cool!” He raised his arms in joy. “I gotta head back to the barracks now. Tomorrow is my first day.”

“Very well then, Spike. I will see you at dusk, tomorrow.” The dragon guard gave a salute and made his way back to the guard barracks. Starfall turned his attention towards his companion, who was panting heavily to play with his master. “Alright fine. Let’s see if you’ve gotten any stronger.” A cocky smile crept on his face as he took his stance towards the giant albino wolf.

> Chapter 8 High Society
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Starfall found himself in a field, alone and holding two swords. He noticed that he was wearing armor.."How did I..-" He stopped talking half way through as he saw by the end of the field was a whole army of gryphons.."What is going on here!?" He demanded an explanation to whatever had brought him here. He felt his body moving against his will..."What is happening to me!?" He shouted out as he started to panic.

The giant line of armored gryphons numbering in the thousands started charging toward the Prince. "NO!" he shouted out again as he struggled to gain control of his body to run away from the massive army. "KENDOV SIL MULAAG!". After the loud roar had come from his body he realized something...This wasn't his body..He was taller, more muscular and his wings were black feathered. But what did this mean?

He saw that the gryphon army came closer and closer until finally he felt like he was seeing everything at a slower pace.. And as Starfall saw that he was just about to strike, his sight was blinded by red color..

He regain his eyesight after a small flash of light...He looked around and what he saw couldn't begin to describe the horrors he was seeing...Thousands upon thousands of gryphons had been mercilessly slain..By whoever eyes he was seeing it from..The prince wanted to drop down and throw up but he still couldn't control his actions.

Another flash blinded the prince as he found himself in a throne room with his gaze turned towards a wounded  gryphon who had several rings and a crown.."Emperor.." He said to himself. He knew from the clothing that this was a gryphon emperor. But Starfall was more worried to why he was standing over a injured gryphon.

"Please...Show mercy." The gryphon emperor crawled back with his fore talons but his legs looked like they were limp...

Starfall was scarcely waiting for what was going to come next… He was hoping that he would spare the emperor. "NAH TOOR AG!" A dragon breath like fire came out of his mouth and the entire room was enveloped in a hellish inferno.





"NOOO!" The prince jumped up from his pillow, gasping in terror and with cold sweat running down his face and body. Frosthowl was the first to react to his shouting. The door swung open with two guards ready to fight whatever that had made Starfall yell out in terror.

"Your highness, are you alright!?" One of the guards asked as he quickly scanned the room for any threats and taking position next to the newly woken prince.

Starfall rubbed his eyes as the light from the halls was blinding him a bit and his eyes were stinging a bit. "I'm fine..It was just a day terror."

The guards looked uncomfortably at each other. "I've never heard someone waking up like that...You sure you are alright Sir?" The other guard asked stepping closer.

"I said I was fine!" The prince replied again with a hostile hiss in his voice.

The guards were a bit taken back by the sudden hostility from Starfall but nonetheless they had to follow procedure and leave him alone if he wished to be..But that didn’t mean they wouldn’t report this.

The guards left the room but Frosthowl was still looking worryingly at his master. He was yelping as he put his head on the bed and looked Starfall in the eye, hoping he could ease his concerns.

"I'm fine Frosthowl...It’s just...The Day terrors are getting worse..I'm going to see my mother about it later and hopefully she will be able to help me." Starfall scratched the giant wolf's chin and Frosthowl’s entire body fell limp and his tongue stuck out in relief as his master was scratching his favorite spot. The prince stopped scratching the wolf and got up from bed to start his midday life.







Starfall was sitting in The Silver Pot Cafe and was enjoying his favorite cup of tea with the company of Frosthowl who never leaves his master's side. Some of the costumers were a bit taken off by the giant wolf who was sitting a few feet away from them but it was public knowledge that the prince had a large housebroken wolf who is actually very friendly to everyone it meets.
"We are finished exercising for today, You my friend are starting to become too fast..I might consider cutting back on your daily ration." Frosthowl stopped breathing in shock. "I'm just pulling your paw Frost." Starfall started to chuckle at Frosthowl’s reaction. The wolf snorted and used his right front paw to push the prince a bit off his balance. "Always like you Frost, you can never take a joke and chuckle along...or laugh at all." He uncrossed his legs and stood up from the cushion with his companion quickly following his lead.

"Thank you for the tea Silver aura, As always keep the change." The prince put down two silver coins and bowed to the cashier.

The light gray mare gave the prince a heart warming smile. "You are so generous Starfall, I feel a bit ashamed to accept a 15 bit tip; that's three times the cost of the tea itself."

Starfall stopped at the door and smiled to himself. "Maybe I'm just paying for the wonderful atmosphere that your nice little cafe has to offer." Starfall always felt more welcome in the silver pot cafe then any other restaurant or cafe in Canterlot and it was nice to be addressed as a person instead of as a prince.







Starfall was walking through the streets of Canterlot alongside Frosthowl. On his way back to the castle Frosthowl smelled someone particular was close by. "What is it?" He asked what was bothering his companion. Frosthowl turned around to go back the same block they had come from earlier and Starfall followed him. As they came around the corner Starfall smiled as he saw Rarity with Fancy pants along with her little sister.

The ponies quickly saw Starfall and Frosthowl. "Starfall!" Fancy pants said greeting the young prince with a joyful and positive tone. "Its good to see you again." Frosthowl looked sideways towards Fancy pants. "And you too Frosthowl. You two look dashing as ever." Frosthowl started panting at the compliment and gave the stallion a bow in respect.

"Fancy Pants, Aunty Rarity, Sweetie Belle!" The prince said joyful to see their friendly faces again.

"Starfall, how have you been doing, darling?" Rarity came to greet the young prince with a hug but was quickly stopped.

"Sorry Aunty Rarity, I'm a bit sweaty after running a couple of laps through Canterlot forest." Rarity gave the young prince a grateful smile for warning her in before hand. "What are you three up to?"

"We were talking about tonight's orchestra, I am the new lead singer thanks to Fancy pants." Sweetie belle smiled up to her brother in law.

"But before we head to the theater, we had planned on attending a dinner party...Not that I am looking forward to it.." Rarity grimaced at her husband. 

"Now dear, I know you don't like to attend any party with him there, but you have to accept the fact that he will attend most of the high society gatherings, I don't fancy him either but If you are there at least you can make it a bit more bearable." Fancy pants grabbed his wife's hooves to comfort her. Suddenly an idea hit the gentlecolt’s mind. "I know! Starfall, would you care as to join me and Rarity to the dinner party this afternoon?"

The prince put his right hand on his chin as he was in deep thought if he would want to attend a dinner party with arguably the rudest ponies in all of Equestria. "I don't know..I..-"

"-Frosthowl could come along as well."

Starfall shrugged. "Very well, I'll attend this dinner party. That will give us a chance to catch up; I haven't seen you in weeks my good friend and I look forward to hear what you've been up to." He turned towards Sweetie belle. "I also look forward to your concert Sweetie belle." Starfall picked up the young mare's hoof and kissed it goodbye. "If you would excuse me now-" Starfall hinted Frosthowl to lower himself. "I have to get ready for the party." He put his right foot over the wolf who stood back up at his height again as the prince sat on the saddle. "Take care you three." He waved the ponies goodbye as Frosthowl sprinted back to the castle.







"You sure he is here?" Starfall turned towards his companion who had sniffed out Fancy pants.

Frosthowl nodded.

"Fair enough, and next time I'll make sure to ask for where the dinner party is held." The prince and the wolf saw that there was a single guard by the entrance and approached him.

"Sorry sir, but you are going to have to show an invitation and no pets allowed."

"My name is Prince Starfall, son of Princess Luna and this Frosthowl. We were personally invited by Fancy Pants,"

"Do you have any proof that you are Prince Starfall? Any identifications?"

Starfall was a bit stunned from the guards demand.."You're kidding? you're kidding right?" He dragged his head a bit back with his left eye brow lowered. The guard didn't answer. "I am the only living human in Equestria...I doubt I would need any form of identification."

The guard snorted. "Thats no excuse for not having an identification or invitation, Sorry but you’re not getting past here until you have any identifications about who you claim to be!"

Frosthowl didn't like the guard and started to growl aggressively towards him, Starfall saw how scared the guard got but he waved him off. "I have a better idea, How about you spend the night in the dungeon and hopefully it will teach you who your sovereign leaders are." The Prince snapped his fingers and in a flash the guard was gone. "You see Frost, there is no reason for violence." The Prince smiled sadistically.





As the duo made their way inside, all the ponies stopped their conversations and their attention was turned towards the prince and his wolf companion. All the ponies except Rarity and Fancy pants knelt down to their prince. "Rise!" The prince objected to the welcome he got. "Such a greeting is not necessary!" He addressed his subjects with respect.

The ponies stood up again and the prince could hear them whispering about how humble he is. After a minute they all went back to their own business again.

Starfall and Frosthowl were approached by Rarity and Fancy pants as the ponies merged with the party again. "My my Frosthowl, you look gorgeous in your...Armor?" Rarity looked at Starfall in confusion for an explanation.

"As crazy as this may sound to you aunty but wolves do not like clothes.." Rarity gasped as she looked shocked at Frosthowl who was yelping sheepishly. "But luckily I am able to convince him to wear his collar and armbands."

Frosthowl raised his head in pride, as he liked his platinum armor that had sapphire gems encrusted in them and his beautiful platinum collar that had five shades of blue gems that ended with a white diamond in the middle.

"Nevertheless you both look smashing, Come! Lets catch up, I can’t wait to tell you what I've been up to and then..Something we are going to announce tomorrow but you can hear about it now."






I guess its time that we tell you what we are going to announce tomorrow in Ponyville.-" Fancy pants grabbed his wife's hooves and look into her eyes with a happiness that made the prince smile warmly at.

"I'm with foal." Rarity said turning her gaze towards the prince.

"CONG-" Rarity put her hoof on Starfalls mouth before he could finish.

"Shh, Its still a secrete." She removed her hoof and the prince nodded.

"Congratulations you two!" The prince gave his aunt a heartwarming hug, he was so happy for her. Out of all the high society ponies in Equestria, Starfall respected Fancy pants the most and he’s so glad that she got her stallion of her dreams."How long have you two known?"

"We've known for three weeks now." Rarity replied. "Me and Fancy pants are gonna take a train to Ponyville tomorrow and let the others know about it."

The prince could feel his aunt and friends happiness being converged over to himself. He couldn't stop smiling at their fortune. But as the prince was enjoying the nice evening with Rarity and Fancy pants, a sudden loud trumpet noise could be heard and Frosthowl’s attention was immediately thrown to the entrance.

"Fillies and gentlecolts, I give you Prince Blueblood!" the herald announced getting every ponies attention. Frosthowl started growling furiously as he caught the scent of a pony he loathed.

Prince Blueblood came with a pony who rolled a red carpet for his hooves to tread on. But he stopped walking as he realized that no pony was bowing or kneeling to him. "What is the problem here? Don't you know you are supposed to bow for royalty." It didn't take more than a second for him to single out the large white wolf and his master. The ponies went back to their business as Blueblood approached Starfall. "I didn't think they were allowing animals in here..Odd to see why she and he is here." he looked towards Rarity and Frosthowl as he spoke.

Frosthowl opened his mouth revealing all of his large fangs that could kill the fake prince with one bite. But he smiled as he knew that one bite would be Frosthowl’s last. "Careful Blueblood. He might not bite, but I promise you, I'll do you much worse then a simple bite." The prince said narrowing his eyes.

Blueblood snorted. "I'm not surprised that you would, You and your father are both brutes who always used your uncivilized methods to solve all your problems." He crept a stinging smile. Fancy pants and Rarity widened their eyes expecting the prince to get a good beating from the prince for disrespecting his father..But instead Starfall just smiled.

"I don't mind being a little uncivilized every now and then. I am true royalty compared to you." Prince Bluebloods stinging smile went away. "You are just the bastard child of some pony my aunt courted with centuries ago. her son courted with another of her subjects and so on and so on, Unlike me. My father was the heir to the throne to the crystal empire and my mother is the sovereign princesses of Equestria, which makes me 100% royalty. You are always overplaying something you clearly are not, and that is royalty. You like to call Celestia your aunt which I personally find hilarious. In the end of the day you are just as worthy as an Appleloosan but at least they are friendly company. While you go ahead and live your short lifespan, I will enjoy Immortality along side my mother whilst sitting in my throne ruling my empire and country.!" Starfall's eyes changed for a moment from blue to red and back again.

Fancy pants, Rarity and Blueblood were staring at Starfall with open mouths from the insult of a lifetime. "How...HOW DARE YOU!?" He spoke up loud enough for everyone to turn their head towards his tantrum. Blueblood bit his napkin and used it to slap the prince in the cheek. "I challange you to a duel!" All the ponies gasped as they saw the human boy being challanged. "Winner stays as prince of Equestria, Loser leaves Canterlot forever."

"Starfall don-" Rarity was interrupted before she could finish.

The prince looked around and saw that everyone was staring intently at their interaction. "Don't be a fool Foolblood. My kind forged the sword to fit the palm of my hand. This is a duel you cannot possibly hope to win."

"So you decline? I thought so!"

"I never said I decline, I was just saying that you just bought yourself a ticket to Appaloosa...I accept your challenge Prince Foolblood!"

"Stop calling me that!"

All the ponies gasped as Starfall accepted the invitation. He could hear the ponies whispering. "Frosthowl, Would you be as kind to bring a pair of dueling rapiers from the castle?"





The high society ponies were all watching by the library. "Starfall I am so sorry you got dragged into this." Fancy pants apologized for the prince's situation.

"I understand your reasons for not going up against him, you have a reputation to keep up with these ponies and he could imprison you because he is still a noble of Canterlot. Its time that someone with the same title stands up to this oaf!"

Rarity was feeling a bit guilty for being partially responsible for dragging Starfall to this duel. "Oh Starfall, I'm so sorry I-"

"-Please aunty, stop speaking to me as I am going to lose, I already know how this is going to end.

"But why did you have to accept his challenge?"

"Because a true gentlecolt stands up for a lady." He gave his aunt a cocky smile. "Lets get this over with!" Frosthowl was sitting quietly next to the fashionista and looking intently at the duel. Starfall put on his net helmet and received his rapier from the referee

"The rules are the following; No magic, no unnatural strength or speed.-" He looked at Starfall who his father was legendary for being strong as a Ursa major. "-And no physical contact apart from the rapier. The first to get thee jabs wins!"

The two princes looked at each other before raising their rapiers, "You cannot hope to win a fencing duel against me, I'm the four times champion of Equestria." Blueblood smugly bragged thinking that would lower Starfall's morale.

The prince just kept quiet and crossed his rapier and Bluebloods signifying that he is read to begin and that the duel begin now!

The duel started and Starfall was countering every single technique like it was child play for him. "Tell me, Blueblood! What gives you the right to look down on our subjects as if they were our slaves?" The prince said whilst reflecting his opponents jabs. Blueblood didn't answer and Starfall retaliated by jabbing him quickly in the chest.

"Answer me!" He said as his opponent got back on his forehooves.

"I have the right to speak to anyone as I please because I have royal blood flowing through my veins!" He answered and raised his repair for another round and the prince did the same, followed with another several strikes that prove to be a mere brain numbing activity for Starfall.

"I have royal blood flowing through my veins as well, yet I do not treat our subjects as they were worth any less then me to you!" The spectators were listening on the conversation and looked at each other as the prince did have a valid point. "My mother nor my aunt are pure born but still they treat every single living being with respect and dignity!" Starfall went in for another successful jab which knocked Blueblood off his hooves again.

"The life of royalty is more worth than a simple peasant! I am a prince, I can do whatever I want!" Blueblood stood back up and raised his rapier again but this time he was very nervous. "And do not claim to lecture me about the sanctity of life, you and your furball of a pet, devour the flesh of an animal on a weekly basis."

The fencing began again, and Blueblood was as much of a challenge as he was in the first round. "You're wrong, everypony is as much worth as the other, No matter their financial success or their living class.” Then, with one clash, Blueblood’s rapier went spinning out of his hoof. Starfall pointed His rapier at the quivering mess’s head and continued; “A true leader does what is best for her or his people and you clearly are everything that My Aunt and mother stand against. There is a reason why you aren't sitting on the throne, its because you don't understand the concept of leadership, to have ponies following you because they know you are the best for them and they follow you willingly. Lightbringer forbid if you would ever be sitting on the throne."  Starfall tapped Blueblood’s head with the egde of his rapier, as the defeated pony started to whimper and cry. He took off his helmet and looked at Starfall with fear and despair.

"I want my subjects to thrive and live happy lives. Your motives are out of selfish reasons, and that is the difference between you and me and the difference between a prince and a rat!" The ponies applauded, not just at Starfall's victory. But his ideals. "I don't want you leaving Canterlot. What I want you to do is live your life without being a royal pain to anyone, If you ever address yourself as a prince again, Frosthowl will know and he won't be far behind...Mark my words!" Starfall narrowed his eyes at the defeated commoner. "I'm done here!" The prince levitated his rapier back to the referee.






"Simply an incredible performance Starfall, How did you get so good at dueling?" Fancy pants asked as he, his wife, Frosthowl and Starfall were walking side by side on their way to the concert.

"I've been training for years in several different weapons, and my advantage was simply my birth right, swords were made for humans, not ponies." Rarity snapped back as she heard that the prince had been training with potentially dangerous weapons for years now. "I trust you that this new found knowledge will be kept between us four?" He said turning towards Rarity who was in a uncomfortable situation. She couldn't bring herself to do that when he just stood up for a lady like he did.

Rarity sighed. "Fine! But I don't want to know more so I don't have to lie to your mother."





Starfall and his companions were sitting on the balcony of the music hall and eagerly awaiting their friend to start.

The hall fell quiet as the performance began. A single mare began playing her Violin. The note started high, and slowly lowed in tune and stopped, allowing another moment of anticipating silence to fill the crowd’s ears. Then a stallion at the piano began to play an entrancing yet somber chord, that repeated itself four times before Sweetie opened her mouth to sing.

The music was tear movingly beautiful..the young unicorn really knew how to project her voice to the point of pure perfection. As more string instruments began to chime into the mesmerizing piece, Rarity levitated a napkin to remove a tear that was going down her cheek and leaned her head on her husband’s shoulder. Frosthowl was lying on the ground, soothed by the music and with his tongue out with a smile that showed his teeth in a drowsy grin.

Starfalls attention was set on a particular violinist who was standing next to the singer and perfectly acing her notes. The prince could feel that he was starting to get goose bumps as the violinist hit the high notes. But there was something familiar with the violinist.."Aunty do you happen to know the name of the violinist?" Starfall pointed towards the unicorn with light purple and gray fur with a blonde mane similar to someone he knew.

Rarity glanced at Fancy pants quickly before answer his question. "I'm surprised you don't recognize her. Thats Dinky, Vigile's step daughter."

Starfall just stared at the young mare. "Vigile's step daughter..?" He mutters quietly to himself.






The musical came to an end and Rarity went down from the balcony to congratulate her little sister in person. "I am so proud of you dear sister!" Rarity hugged her little sister whilst crying dramatically. Fancy pants and Starfall along with Frosthowl were witnessing the touching moment.

"Hey, you're the prince aren't you?" Came a voice a small bit behind the prince. Starfall turned around to see the mare that he had been admiring a few moments ago. Starfall felt like his throat had frozen in for a second and he could barely breath.

"Hi...I mean- prince-." This awkward confrontation was quickly noticed by Frosthowl who decided to throw his master a bone.

He stepped closer to the mare and bowed down making the gray purple mare smile in amazement. "Wow, its nice to meet you...?"

Frosthowl used his tail to hit Starfall on his back "-Frosthowl!" The prince snapped back from his incessant stuttering. "This is my friend Frosthowl and I am Prince Starfall." Starfall charismatically grabbed the unicorns hoof and kissed it. "What is your name?" He asked already knowing the question.

She blushed a bit from the greeting. "I'm..I'm Dinky Doo." She blushingingly smiled.

"Dinky Doo huh? You don't happen to be any relation to Ditzy Doo?"

"Yup, that's my mom." She gave the prince a warm smile which made Starfall stutter a bit. "Maybe you know my dad as well. He is the captain of the royal guard."

"Ah yes, Captain Vigile. A very good friend of mine." The prince composed himself. "Say, I haven't seen you around the castle? I know your entire family but I've never met you..Why is this?"

"Oh, I've been busy touring all of Equestria with my mentor Octavia." She waved off in slight embarrassment.

"Dinky, we gotta go now! We still got the 10 o'clock performance by the garden!" A voice came from the distance that turned out to be a earth pony, her features were gray fur, light black mane with amethyst eyes.

"Sorry Starfall but I gotta go now. I hope we see eachother soon." Dinky said as she levitated her violin case and ran to her mentor.

"Hope to see you too.." The prince said disappointed. Starfall turned around to see that his aunt was smiling with an annoying grin.

"Aww that was adorable, your first crush! I can’t wait to tell the others about this."

Like Starfall was hit by a meteor as his face shifted into a embarrassed wide gaze at his aunt."What!? I don’t have a crush on her!" He responded whilst blushing in embarrassment.

"Darling you are just too cute, Look he's blushing." She leaned on Sweetie belle as she spoke.

"TIS A LIE!" He yelled out but didn't have an effect on the snickering mares. Starfall sighed. "Fancy Pants thank you for inviting me along, Its certainly been an eventful evening, but I have to head home now before my mother gets worried and sends half the royal guard after me."

"Very well Starfall, and don't mind Rarity," He leaned closer to the human. "You know she just wants to speed up the day you have your royal marriage." He smiled jokingly.

Starfall bowed and made his way out of the building with Frosthowl at his side. Frosthowl was looking at the prince with a grin that showed his teeth.

"Oh don't you start as well Frost! I don't have a crush on her." Frosthowl didn't change his facial expression. "What is up with everypony today?"






The prince was exhausted after a long night of studying, reading and playing with his trusty companion. He was making his way back to his room. The sun was about to raise and he could feel his powers diminishing once again. "Starfall?" The motherly voice of his aunt echoed from the other side of the hallway.

"Yes Aunty?" The Prince responded without turning around. He could feel his aunts presence right behind him as she wanted to talk to him.

"The guards have reported to me that you have been experience..from the sound of it some intense day terrors..Is it true?"

The Prince's heart skipped a beat as he realized that if he confesses, his mother will visit one of his horrific dreams and see that her sons mind is filled with evil visions. "No, I do not have any day terrors, its..." The prince rushed in his mind for a good lie. "Its just when I feel Frosthowl’s tail on my feet I get scared and wake up in shock." Starfall's face was a perfect poker face but his mind was panicking and hoping she would believe him.

Celestia nodded. "Very well, Off to sleep then my favorite nephew." She lowered her head and gave the boy a kiss on the cheek. which the prince also gave back.

"Good day aunty Celestia." He smiled as he opened the door to his room where Frosthowl was already sleeping.

But before he closed the door his aunts voice came again. "Oh and Starfall!" The Prince stuck his head out and turned towards his aunt. "Impressive fencing skills you have there young man." She winked at Starfall, pretty much stating that she knows of his secret training and dueling.

Starfall didn't respond and quickly closed the door.
	
> Chapter 9 Magical Night
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Starfall was standing in a field that looked like outside of Ponyville and while surrounded by pegasai guards. The prince sighed as he knew that it was another day terror. "WILL YOU NOT LET ME DREAM!" He yelled out infuriated, the day terrors started taking its toll on the young boy. 

Starfall saw a chariot carrying a unicorn with blue hair and golden and purple armor "Shining armor?" The prince asked confused as what was going.

"I guess you must be Captain Shining armor?" The voice came from in front of Starfall...He knew it was either his father or Dawn Fury who spoke.

From the look of it Shining armor was shocked and the guards around him were more itchy with their spears then before. "You can talk?" He asked surprised.

"Yes and I can ask questions like WHY THE FUCK DID YOU SEND YOUR GUARDS TO ATTACK ME!?" Starfall was taken back by the loud shouting and the guards seemed to become more hostile with their spears.

Shining Armor snorted. "One of my scouts told me you were attacking the townsfolk! And It shows he was right, now put down the spear or we will take you down with lethal force if we have to."

"Make me, dickhead!" The body of Starfall replied.

Shining Armor charged up his horn for a magical attack...A potentially lethal one..

The prince was surprised that the captain would start the encounter with unconventional spell..The bolt was fired and the prince flinched. As he opened his eyes he saw that the spell had no effect on him and had burned the ground around him. "How is this possi-. Never mind, guards attack!" 

A bright flash blinded the prince sight





Starfall found himself on top of a mortally wounded Shining armor..His face had been completely destroyed and the prince saw that he had a lot of blood on his hands..He grabbed out a knife and put it up against the former captains throat. The prince felt...Different. He could feel a burning rage that wanted his human counterpart to cut his throat.."What is wrong with me!?" The prince shook his mind back to control which responded by blinding the prince again





"ENOUGH OF THIS!" The voice of his aunt shouted with the royal Canterlot voice. "You will be reunited with your master Discord in stone!" Celestia was mustering a large amount of magic for a powerful spell that was going to do as she said it was...

"Wait!" The prince flinched again but as the bright light hit Starfall..Once again he was unaffected.

Princess Celestia looked on the human with surprise.."No...This cannot be!" She spoke in shock.

Starfall leapt forward and grabbed his aunts neck and drew the knife against her throat. "NO!!!" But suddenly another odd flash of light brought the young prince to another place..





Starfall found himself relaxed and...Peaceful. His mind started to make out the surrounding area and he saw he was lying down on a beautiful beach. The sound of chirping birds, the tide going back and forth. And with a purple gray mare lying down with him and her head on his chest. "Wha.-" The prince recognized her as the violinist from earlier. 

"Is anything wrong?" The beautiful young mare looked worryingly at Starfall.

Starfall wanted to object...But he decided he liked it. "No." He replied with a smile. "Everything is just fine." He leaned his head back on the tree with Dinky resting her head on his chest as they both watched the sunset.





The blue glow of Luna's horn disappeared and she smiled as she saw that her son's frown was replaced with a satisfied smile. "You are so much like your father, always having to look strong so you wont worry me." Luna leaned down and gave her son a kiss on the forehead. "If he was only here..." 

Frosthowl panted happily at his mistress.

"Thank you for bringing this to my attention Frosthowl. I'm glad you are here to watch over him." The lunar mare nuzzled the giant white wolf. "You two share an unbreakable bond like his father and uncle." Frosthowl kept his panting grin, satisfied to be of assistance to his master and mistress.

As Luna left Starfall's room, Celestia and Vigile were waiting outside waiting to hear what she saw. "Well? What did you see?" Celestia asked curious to find out what Day terrors were plaguing her nephew.

Luna's warm smile disappeared into a worried frown. "Something must have gone terribly wrong." Luna's statement made her sister even more curious.

"Just tell me!"

Luna took a quick glance of her son as he was sleeping. "I saw Crimson, fighting Shining armor and taking a knife to your throat." Celestia's eyes widened as she knew it wasn't a dream she was speaking of..It was a past event.

"But...That happened 14 years ago...Why would he dream about memories that aren't his?"

"It seems that when Alexander and Anthony pulled Starfall back into our world...He must have left small pieces of his memory unto his son."

"By the Lightbringer...He must have experienced all the..-"

Luna nodded and knew that her son must have seen his fathers victims. "We will talk to him tomorrow. Who knows what that poor boy has seen...and at such a young age."






"Your highness?" Vigile shook the sleeping prince.

Starfall slowly opened his eyes with a smile. "Good morning captain." He removed his face from the pillow as he stood up and rubbed his eyes.

"Well aren't you in a good mood today, did you sleep alright? any nice dreams?"

Starfall suddenly froze as he wasn't just about to spat out that he dreamt about his daughter..."Uh..." He didn't know how to respond Vigile's question. "I...I dreamt about..-" To tartarous with it "-I can't remember but I know it was good." He stood up from his bed and quickly made his way to grab his regular pants who were black and a linen white shirt.

Vigile didn't question the prince's bad memory and just nodded. "Very well, Glad you slept well at least." He smiled to his friend. "Your mother wanted me to tell you to be prepared for the Grand galloping gala, Frosthowl has already gone and gotten himself groomed by the maids and breakfast is waiting for you down by the kitchen, I apologize but we are currently decorating the dining hall for tonight."

"Ugh, The grand galloping gala is always such a bore, Its just high society ponies who wish to introduce me to their daughters or crystal ponies who come for the sole purpose to worship me." The prince was sighing as he was walking side by side with the captain.

Vigile gave a little chuckle. "This year, the wife and I will be attending as well so you don't have to spend all your time with them. And Amethyst will also coming along with...- You've never met my second daughter have you?"

The prince snapped back again as he didn't want to mention his daughter because of his dream. "What? I didn't know you had two daughters. I've only met Amy..What's her name if I might ask?" He nonchalantly asked.

"Her name is Dinky. I'll introduce you two tonight, don’t you worry." The prince did his best to prevent his lips from creeping a smile but he was very excited to meet her again.





The royal groomers were grooming the giant white wolf who was enjoying it. "I see you're having fun at least." Starfall commented at the white wolf who was lying on his back as they comb his stomach fur and twitched his leg, signifying that he likes it a lot. "Has he been a nice wolf?" The prince asked the three maids. 

"As always, he is such a innocent little kitty cat." one of the maids teased the giant wolf who took notice and started growling but was quickly silenced when she threw a treat which Frosthowl caught in the air. "Innocent as a little kitty cat." She turned back towards the prince with a joking smile.

"Thank you. You may all now leave!" The prince gave the maids and gentlecolts bow as they left the room. After they left, Starfall was at the verge of panicking. "Blast, I don't know what I'm going to do!" 

Frosthowl stood up, tilting his head in sideways in confusion from his master's sudden behavior. 

"As much as I hate to say it...You and Rarity were right...I have a crush on the violinist!" The prince spoke as he put both his hands behind his head as he didn't know how he was going to do this. Frosthowl yelped to try to understand what was the big deal.

"I cant...I don't even know her..She might be a unp.-" The prince stopped as he was talking about one of his best friend's daughter. "No..She is the daughter of Ditzy and Vigle..I wouldn't expect anything less than a pitch perfect mare.." Frosthowl approached the prince with a toothy grin, his way of saying *I told you so*. "Yeah yeah very funny Frost, but this is serious. Should I be myself or.-" Frosthowl cut of Starfall by pushing him off his feet.

"You're right..I shouldn't make a big deal out of this. I'll get through this like any normal day. Thanks Frosthowl!" He gave the giant white wolf a hug, which he responded by putting his right forepaw around his masters body. "Now lets get ready for the gala!"







The shower water stopped flowing and the prince came out with a towel wrapped around his waist. As he left the bathroom in his room his eyes quickly caught sight of his mother standing outside. "I thought that nopony was allowed in my presence when I don't have my clothes on?" The prince spoke to his mother who was holding something behind her with her magic.

Luna rolled her eyes "I came to give you this!" She levitated a tuxedo made for a human, Starfall didn't know what to make of this.

"Ever heard of bad taste? I'm not wearing that." He objected to his mother's suggestion.

Luna's prideful smile disappeared for a second as Starfall spoke. "This was worn by your father the night..-" Luna tried to suppress the happy memories of her dancing with him when he asked her to the gala. "-The night your father and I danced in the gala for the first time..." Starfall knew that he hit a nerve and felt awful for bringing up the memory of his father. 

"If my father wore this, Then so shall I!" The prince just realized that the tux was a perfect match for his size. "Uh..Was my father as tall as I am?"

Luna wiped off a small tear that was sliding down her cheek and smiled up at her son. "No this was magically shrunk down for you since he was a lot taller, but don't worry, I've told you before that humans stop growing when they are twenty five years old, you will be as big and strong as he was! Luna levitated the tux on the bed and let her son change in peace.

Starfall approached the tuxedo as his mind was racing with thoughts about his father and he could sense his mother's sadness from a mile away. Starfall never considered that his mother may also been torn up from the loss of her one and only love...From what he had learned, she had been through a lot by being Nightmare Moon and banished for a thousand years. but the worst was the fact that nopony ever knew that she existed during the dark ages. Celestia was always seen as the only princess even tho both sisters worked Together to keep balance in the world.

The prince felt a swift and sudden change of power and strength as he saw that it was night time. "Mother..?" He asked out loud in the room but found himself alone.







The evening was as expected. Several of the high society ponies introduced their daughters to the bachelor prince and all of the attended Crystal ponies came only to kiss the feet of the Crystal King. Starfall felt very uncomfortable that everyone saw him as an idol or a trophy. But the prince was looking forward to the arrival of the violinist Dinky. But it couldn't come fast enough. "Lightbringer's mercy. This is worse than last year." Starfall whispered to Frotshowl's ear.

His negative attitude of the night was gone in a flash as he saw the Doo family. He was about to approach them but hid behind a wall before going out. "How do I look?" Starfall asked nervous to make his impression on his crush.

Frosthowl looked at Starfall with his amused grin. "You're enjoying this aren't you?" He asked ironically. The prince took a deep breath as he was summing up all his courage and confidence to go and greet the Doo family. He left his hiding spot and approached the family. "Ditzy! Amy! Its good to see you two again!" The prince bowed to the newly arrivals.

The loving gray mare responded by giving the prince a big hug, "It's good to see you too my little muffin!" Starfall wanted to break off the hug but he cared for his foal-sitter too much and hugged her back with a warm smile. "My, you've grown so much over the year, you resemble your father a lot with that tuxedo."

Starfall felt a bit overwhelmed by the complements but just nodded and turned his attention towards Amethyst. "Amy, its good to see you again!" The prince picked up her hoof and gave it a gentlecolts kiss. 

"Flatterer as always." Amethyst blushed at the prince greeting. "Its good to see you again Starfall."

And then came the moment of truth for Starfall, He turned his attention towards Dinky. "Its nice to meet you Miss Dinky." Starfall winked at the purple gray mare and kisses her hoof.

"Its nice to meet you too Prince Starfall!" The beautiful and simply dressed mare blushed from the greeting.

"So, Miss Dinky, I've heard you haven't visited the castle so much...Care to join me in a tour around it? Is it okay if I borrow her for a few minutes" Starfall turned towards Ditzy and Vigile who gave a quick nod.

"I would love to." She replied with a warm smile. "I'll see you later Amy." She secretly winked to her sister which the prince didn't notice, 

"I promise I'll bring her back in one piece." Starfall said jokingly and offer his arm to the mare.

Rarity, Fancy pants and Frosthowl were observing the prince leaving the dining hall and were snickering amongst themselves but Frosthowl was laughing like a hyena. "I'm gonna start working on idea for her dress right away!" Rarity stated which made Fancy pants chuckle at his wife's frantic desire to rush his royal wedding. 

"Lets focus on the engagement ring first." Fancy teased his wife.





It was a clear night, the moon and stars beaming down on the world below. In the Canterlot garden all was still but for two creatures, a pony and human, who walked side by side under the old trees.

“-and this is the Canterlot garden. Sadly it’s rather quiet now, all the animals are asleep, but in the day some of the rarest animals in Equestria roam here, like the blue-feather robin and... such...” He trailed off, mesmerized by the mare’s beauty under the streak of moonlight that shot down from the trees above. She flicked her mane back before gently sitting down the cold grass. Starfall hesitated, before quickly doing the same.

“What’s it like? Being a prince, I mean” she suddenly asked. Starfall was taken aback by the question.

“Well.. I mean it’s... why do you want to know?” Starfall asked suspiciously  

“All my life I’ve heard father talk about you. I just want to hear your side of the story, that’s all.” Starfall chuckled. He wasn’t the only one who had been anticipating this moment

“Your father is a great stallion. I’m sure whatever he told you about me was true.” Dinky sighed.

“He’s a good father... he’s a bit strict sometimes though.” She shot her head up looking at Starfall again, with a grin on her face. “You’ve changed the subject!” Starfall laughed, and shook his head.

“Fine, I’ll tell you myself. It’s boring. Very, Very boring.” Dinky’s grin changed to a look of confusion as Starfall explained, “All it is is meeting egotistical nobles at grand events... er, you being an exception, of course.” at this, Dinky gave him a warm smile, which made the him blush.

“I heard you dueled Blueblood recently?” Dinky asked, breaking the awkward tension

“He had it coming sooner or later. You can’t go round treating other ponies as inferiors just because of whose descendant you are.”

“Wow, you could say that you’re a hero.” Starfall's smile disappeared into a subtle frown.

“I’m not a hero, Dinky. I’m not as brave and strong as my father.” He looked down at his quivering hands from the cold

“Not every hero is clad in shining armor and has to be brave. Sometimes, its just standing up for what's right.” The prince looked up at the mare, her words replaying in his head. She then got up turned back to the castle. A cold breeze blew through the air, the cold night made the young mare shiver. ”Let’s get back inside, its cold out here. ” Starfall smiled at her and she gave a friendly nod. The two creatures walked back through the garden to the castle, the moon watched as they left the beautiful garden.



 


The pair made their way back to the dining hall where most of the guests were chatting and hadn't notice the Unicorn and human rejoining the hall. "Well Starfall, It was nice to see you again, I really hope that we get to see each other one more time before this evening comes to an end."

"I hope so too." He said with a warm smile and gave the mare a gentlecolts bow. Dinky made her way back to her family and Starfall's first thought was to tell Frosthowl how well it went, but he couldn't see him anywhere. "Odd.." The prince used a simple spell to find his companion who was bound to him. The spell said Frosthowl was in the music room..Which was even more odd since he has never voluntarily been there. But Starfall just shrugged and made his way there without a second thought.





The prince opened the door to see a growling wolf, A white unicorn stallion wielding a spear, two pink alicorns, Along with two white unicorns one male and the other a very overly dressed female.

"STAY BACK I SAY!" Shining armor roared at Frosthowl, who was viciously growling back

The moment saw his best friend being threatened he didn't waste a second to interfere. Starfall used his magic to shatter the spear into a million pieces. "What's going on here!" He said with his Royal Canterlot Voice. The shouting took the attention of everypony. Frosthowl didn't waste a moment to reunite with his master.

"What are you doing, get away from that thing!" Cadence said worried for the Prince's safety.

Starfall just facepalmed at the drama of the scene. "Aunty Rarity, what's going on?" He groaned.

"Thank goodness you arrived when you did." Rarity said relieved to see Starfall to get everyone to calm down.

"Why did Frosthowl almost kill Shining armor?" He repeated his question but in a different format.

"Hardly! I could have taken him!" Shining armor protested.

"Silence!" He commanded the fake prince who lowered his proud stance. "Now tell me what happened." He said with a less aggressive tone than before...






Rarity and Fancy pants were making their way from the dining hall to get a moment for themselves. "I wonder how It's going for Starfall. The little prince has never had a crush and I'm a bit worried that he might get nervous."

"Don't worry your little head, he'll do just fine." Fancy reassured his worried wife. "Besides, have you ever met a stallion more charismatic than Starfall?" The gentlecolt said rhetorically.

Rarity gave her husband a seductive smile. "Maybe just one." She leaned closer to her husband and nuzzled him.

"Rarity?" A voice came behind the couple 

The couple turned around to see two pink alicorns and one white unicorn. "Cadence,Shining armor, Skyla!" Rarity said happily and went over to greet them. "How have you three ben? Skyla you've grown up so much!" Rarity said and hugged the newly turned alicorn.

The pink alicorn wasn't looking very happy and in fact looked a bit annoyed or bothered. "I'm fine." She replied not looking at the white unicorn in the eyes and looked somewhere else like she wasn't interested in being here.

Rarity glanced at Cadence, but she just raised a hoof, as in to say *don't ask* "Anyways..Its so good to see you three again!" She gave the princesses a bow.

Cadence smiled at the greeting. "Its good to see you too. We were looking for Luna and Starfall, do you happen to know where they are?" Cadence asked politely.

Rarity grimaced at the mention of Starfall. "I don't know where Luna is, but Starfall is talking to a very lovely young mare by the garden." Skyla's ears perked up as Rarity spoke. "He will most likely return back to the music room to meet up with Frosthowl."

Cadence and Shining looked at each other from the odd name. "Frosthowl?" Cadence asked with a raised eyebrow.

Rarity sighed. "Its a long story." She motioned her hoof with a downwards wave.

Cadence nodded. "Very well."







Frosthowl was sleeping soundly in the music room in front of the fireplace. He had decided to take a small nap before seeing his master again. The door swung open and his head instantly peeked up to see who it was, to his disappointment it was Rarity and Fancy pants who opened the door and he decided to go back to snoozing.

"He's not here but-" Rarity was interrupted by Skyla who went past her by the door to see if he was there but to her shock she saw a giant white furred wolf napping by the fireplace. Skyla gave a high pitch scream in fear from the predator. Shining armor's guard instincts kicked in and he rushed to his daughter to see what had caused her to scream.

Frosthowl took notice of the screaming and protected his ears in a submissive yelp. He quickly stood up and his eyes caught glimpse of a battle stanced Stallion.

"Get back monster!" He shouted. The unicorn used his magic to grab a spear from above the fireplace and aimed it towards Frosthowl. He didn't understand the sudden hostility and responded by going over to the young mare and the older stallion to give a bowing greet and to show them that he is friendly. "I said STAY BACK!" he stabbed the wolf's left shoulder just slightly piercing through his body fat. Frosthowl barked, enraged by the attack, he took his battle stance and showed off his massive teeth.

"NO STOP!" Rarity said trying to break up the fight.





"-And that's when you came.." Rarity finished explaining what happened.

Starfall groaned in annoyance, shooting Shining armor with a stare of disapproval. "I'm in a good mood today so I won't be throwing you in the dungeon for assault."

Shining armor was taken back. "Assault!? Your pet tried to attack Skyla!" Shining armor spat at Starfall.

Starfall's facial expression wasn't changed by the objection. "I'm surprised you didn't start the fight with a lethal bolt, like you did against my father."

All the ponies including, Shining Armor froze. "Who told you that?" Cadence breathed, her barely audible voice quivering.

Starfall was going to answer the question but he noticed that someone was missing. "Where is Skyla?" He looked around trying to find his friend. Cadence's attention was also taken away by the question."Never mind her for the moment, like I said I'm in too good of a mood to bother, but you owe Frosthowl an apology."

Shining armor was taken even more back by his demand. "Why should I apologize?"

Starfall looked towards Frosthowl who had been growling furiously towards the former captain. "Or else I'll leave..."

Nopony understood what the prince meant by it. "Fine, leave, see if i care." He replied which made Starfall smile slightly.

"Very well, I'll leave you alone with Frosthowl." Starfall turned towards the wolf. "Have fun." He gave the giant white wolf a wink."

Frosthowl leapt towards Shining armor and pinned him to the ground in a instance. Shining armor was staring into the massive fangs and was frozen in fear. "Well have fun you two." Starfall said as he was just about to leave the room.

"Alright, alright!" Shining armor yelled out in fear. But Frosthowl didn't stop and showed off his massive fangs. "I'M SORRY!" he cried out with his last breath.

Starfall smiled and whistled for Frosthowl to come back to him. "Apology accepted." He said, keeping his father’s grin and left the ponies.

Fancy pants was helping up shining armor but he waved off his help. "Why do you always have to pick a fight with him!?" Rarity asked angrily. Cadence was going to stay for the question but she needed to find her daughter.







"You should have seen her Frost, she was so different from any mare I've ever met, She was kind, funny and as charming as her music." Starfall reminisce to his wolf about his encounter with the violinist. Frosthowl just sat and listened to his master with a smile that was reflected from his friend. "If I time it right, I could maybe share a dance with her before the end of the night."

Starfall wanted to continue explaining his plans for tonight, but both Starfall and Frosthowl snapped at the sound coming from the open door...Someone was there.

"I see you've found yourself a new friend." The voice of Skyla was recognized immediately as she spoke. She came out of hiding and revealed herself to the duo.

Starfall smiled. "Skyla!" he went up to her with his arms stretched out but got no hug from her which confused the prince. "What's the matter?"

Skyla narrowed her eyes and smile into a angry frown, "How could you not have visited me after five years! Five years!" She repeated herself still boiling with anger.

Starfall's smile disappeared from her yelling. "You know that I was very busy with my studies. I wanted to visit you every time I was forced to read one of my aunt's thousand of book and then move up to the Canterlot library..How can you even suggest that I would do such a thing on purpose?" The prince asked with a sad frown towards his childhood friend.

"No letters, no note. You could have sent one of the pegasus guards to deliver a message to me!" Skyla kept her angry glare towards the confused prince.

"What are you talking about? I've sent you several letters and notes...I even sent you a present every year, I've asked why you haven't come and visited Canterlot and my mother says that you were busy with your studies..."

Skyla steamed with rage after Starfall spoke. "YOU LIAR!" she slapped Starfall on his cheek. If it wasn’t night time, that slap would have hurt...Alot. But while Starfall barley felt the slap, he was completely stunned from Skyla’s outburst "A gentlecolt isn't supposed to lie to a mare, Especially a princess!" Starfall was just shocked from Skyla's acquisition. "I don't even want to look at you anymore, you make me sick Prince Starfall!" She turned her back towards the prince and left the room with a devastated prince and a confused wolf.

"Why would she think...-" Like his thoughts were putting together a giant puzzle, Starfall was trying to understand why she would think that he lied to her...







The prince continued with his attendance at the gala. The gala itself held little meaning to him, it was just the chance to see his relatives and close friends that was the highlight of the night. But the goal of most guest of the gala was to present themselves to the young prince as potential suitors, but the prince wasn't a fool, he knew their intentions before they even stepped inside his castle.

The prince had just finished talking to another mare with the delusion of thinking she had a chance with Starfall. The prince retreated back to the throne room to get a minute to vent out. "Lightbringer's mercy...These ponies are more boring than watching paint dry..." He said to his wolf companion. "Just a few more minutes until the sun and moon dance." The prince started to walk around in circles as he was getting more and more nervous.

The ears of the prince caught sound of his aunts timid Royal Canterlot voice. "Fillies and gentlecolts! for those who wish to participate in the sun and moon dance, please make your way towards the dining hall!"

"Oh boy..Here we go.." Starfall gulped. "Wish me Luck my friend!" He glanced at sleeping wolf and smiled. "Thanks for the support." He said sarcastically.

The prince made his way back to the dining hall and took a deep breath before entering...

As the boy entered, he saw all the mares and stallions. All the ponies in the room looked nervously to whom the young prince would chose as a dance partner...His eyes caught the sight of Dinky immediately and with a subtle smile he made his way towards the Doo family.

But as he made his way towards the violinist, he saw that his mother was sitting by the corner on the other side of the room and not wearing a dress a usual...Why does he never wear her dress? I've seen it, It's gorgeous... Like a meteor hitting Starfall's mind, he realized what was wrong with his mother today..She misses him... He thought to himself.






Earlier today...



"This was worn by your father the night..-" His mother paused and he didn't understand why "-The night we danced for the first time..." She tried to hide a tear sliding down her cheeks.

As his mother left, the prince felt the odd sensation of Grief as the night was born...





I understand now... All ponies saw how he stopped walking and his smile disappeared. He glanced at Dinky one last time before closing his eyes and trying to suppress his dream mare.

Starfall turned towards his mother and made his way towards her. Starfall went past several mares who sighed in disappointment. Everypony saw him making his way towards his mother.

Luna was taken back by her son's approach. "Starfall?" She asked him confused. "Aren't you going to pick a partner?" She asked her son. All the ponies were curious to what was going to happen next.

"Mother...Can I have this dance?" He gave a warm smile and extended his hand to pick her up from her seat.

All the ponies in the room were gazing intently their every movement. Luna however was giving a teary smile to her son...She hadn't considered dancing in the past. She knew what the prince was giving up to dance with her. "I would love to!" She took his hand and delicately stood up. They made their way towards the dance floor and separate to their respective sex sides and face towards each other. Starfall could see his aunts and close friends smiling towards him by the far end of the room.

The room quietened. Ponies gathered round the dancefloor while those involved approached their dance partners. The classical music began to play. The ponies took their partners with both forehooves and stood up on their hind hooves they walked in circles around each other. The dance was easier for Starfall with his human build and as his mother stood up on her hind legs and balancing her weight on his hands. she was just barely shorter than her son. All the ponies dropped down on their four hooves again before taking each other with just one hoof this time as they spun again.

"You are just as charming as he is." She teased her son as she stepped closer to her partner and put her hoof around his back and he around her waist.

He gave his mother a confident smile. "I doubt he was as handsome as I am." He replied jokingly.

The music eventually came to an end and all the ponies started applauding and Luna made her way with her son to the stage along with his aunt, Celestia.

Celestia looked happily towards the couple and turned her attention towards the gathered crowd. "Thank you all for this magical night. We hope you all had a great time and we look forward to next year's grand galloping gala. for now we would like to say thank you for coming!" Celestia spoke with her mild Canterlot voice.

The ponies applauded and slowly made their way out of the dining hall. Celestia turned towards her sister and nephew. "That was very nice of you Starfall." She smiled down on her nephew and turned towards her sister. "You are still the beautiful dancer I remember you were." She said to her sister. "I have to signal the guards to return." She said stepping off the stage and leaving Luna and Starfall alone.

Starfall was doing his best not to make a big deal out of it but his mother was so proud of her caring son. "I can't believe you picked me, you fool." 

Starfall chuckled. "I have no idea what you are talking about." He tried to play off nonchalantly.

"Don't lie to me!" She bumped him again on his chest. "Did you really think I wouldn't notice you going off with Captain Vigil's daughter?" She giggled at her son's antics.

Starfall rolled his eyes. "True, but I chose to dance with the best mare there was." He smiled cheesily at his mother before being attacked with a hug from her.

"I love you too my little moonshine!" She kissed him on his cheek. "Thank you for making this a worthwhile night." Starfall returned the hug and wrapped his arms and wings around his mother. "It is a pity that you missed out on your chance with her."

Starfall hugged his mother tighter. "It was worth it to see you happy!"






The prince finished changing from his tuxedo unto some more comfortable and more daily clothes. Frosthowl was lying on Starfall's bed, waiting for his master to finish getting dressed.

Frosthowl's ears perked up as he heard movement in the hall. He raised his head, which Starfall noticed.

"What is it Frosthowl?" The prince asked his friend. A knocking sound came from his door and the prince braced himself for what was coming. "Come in!" The door opened and swung to the side, revealing to be his aunt Celestia. "Hi aunty! What can I do for you?" Starfall asked cheerfully.

Celestia wasn't smiling..."We need to talk!" She said coldly.

Starfall's cheerful mood was fading as he felt his aunt's serious tone kick in. "About what?" He slowly asked

Celestia sighed. "Your dreams..."



> Chapter 10 The Truth
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Starfall found himself in the dining hall, sitting next to Luna and Cadence. "Cadence? I thought you.-" The prince stopped talking to the princess of love as he realized that he wore odd clothes he had never seen before and he noticed that his arm was a different skin color to his light beige skin, these were beige brown.."Another vision?" He asked himself, knowing it was true.

Starfall's jaw dropped as he saw another human in the room with brown skin and sitting next to Celestia. "Dawn Fury!?" He asked out loud? "Uncle Dawn Fury?" He asked again, hoping he would reply to the prince's plea. But he ignored him as he didn't exist.

Starfall's Aunt Celestia, started to clap her hooves gently to signal a servant to enter. The door swung open and there he stood. A gray gryphon who the prince recognized right away as Gustav the cook and the prince's close friend.

Gustav cleared his throat before speaking, "My omnivorous brothers. By the request of Princess Celestia, I've been tasked  to cook this wonderful meal for you two. I present to you two, Filet de porc!" Starfall's eyes widened as the gryphon spoke. The words meant Pork loin...In other words, Pig meat. The gryphon raised the silver plate and Starfall was disgusted by the sight of the grilled animal. Starfall could barely eat chicken meat without feeling too guilty..But he had never even considered eating another animal. Starfall wanted to throw up, but this was a mere dream and he could do but watch and listen.

"Thank you Jesus!" Dawn Fury yelled out with his hand together like he was begging to the Lightbringer...

Starfall took notice of the cries of joy from his uncle, especially at the mention of this Jesus...Is this Jesus just like grandmother? "FUCK YES MEAT!" The voice came from his fathers body. Starfall also took notion of the word, Fuck...Did it have similar meaning as buck? he thought to himself. Gustav placed the plates in front of the hungry and very anticipatory humans. "Celestia Baby, how did you know that the fastest way through a mans heart is through his stomach?" The voice of his father came again." He saw his cheeks dimmed his eyesight, most likely smiling."Thank you...-?" His voice came out towards the gray gryphon.

"-Gustav!" He answered with a bow. "Gustav Legrand. Enjoy your meal my friends." Starfall's disgust was slightly eased as he felt a friend's memory through his blood. He bowed one more time and made his way out of the room.

Starfall's sight was forced away from the door and he looked towards Shining armor and Princess Cadence who were trying to keep their breakfast from come back out. "Princess that is disgusting! How can you allow these savages to sit in this table and devour the flesh of an animal?" Shining armor protested out.

Starfall's sight was slightly blocked as his father gave the captain a killing stare and he saw that his uncle was doing the same thing but his face was quickly relaxed. "Its either This or I could throw the pleasant librarian of Ponyville on a barbeque!"

Starfall gaped in disbelief at his father’s notion of eating his Aunt, but his concerns were quickly diminished as he started to laugh maniacally. Starfall took a revealing deep breath as he realized he was only joking..But he still thought it was in bad taste.

"Ugh!" He groaned and stepped away from the table. "I've lost my appetite!" He said and made his way towards the door.

Starfall stood up from his chair against his will and turned towards Shining Armor. "Did you ever thank your wife for saving you?" His father's voice echoed throughout the room. Shining armor stopped walking and his horn charged and he turned towards Starfall with flaring fury in his eyes. He shot the spell which made Starfall flinch, but he saw that nothing happened and he saw that Shining armor was charging towards him...






Starfall calmly opened his eyes, Frosthowl was still asleep right next to his master's bed. He sighed as he knew the visions were trying to tell him something. He slowly removed the covers and shook Frosthowl's chest.

Frosthowl growled, He wanted to sleep inn. "Fine then!" Starfall said, still a bit drowsy from waking up. He stood up from his bed and started to put on his common castle wear for the day.







Starfall made his way towards the kitchen where he would visit his friend Gustav and to grab something to eat of course. He opened the medium sized doors to the kitchen and saw the gryphon working hard as ever to prepare the prince's dinner. "Bonne soirée Gustav!" Starfall snapped the stressed gryphon off his work.

"Good evening to you too Starfall!" The gryphon said happy to see his friend awake. "The usual or specialty?" He asked the young prince.

Starfall rubbed his chin, he was still disgusted from the grilled steak from his dream. "Today I'm going with the usual. Would you be as kind to make it for me?"

Gustav smiled at the humble prince. "Very well, A bowl of fruit salad. And your highness, you know that you don't have to ask me to do anything, You don't have to ask me anything." He said whilst chopping up cabbages and several other fruits and vegetables at a impressive speed.

Starfall smiled. "And you know I've asked you several times not to call me Your highness." He replied to the cook.

Gustav chuckled. "Touché"






The prince finished eating his dinner and still felt like he had a empty stomach and Gustav took notice to this. "Its not easy is it?" He asked the prince about being a vegetarian.

Starfall shook his "Gustav, I've always respected you and honored our friendship, so I mean no offense when I say. I don't know how gryphons and my father could be full fledged omnivores." Gustav stopped his chopping at the mentioning of the prince's father.

Gustav put the knife down on the table before speaking. "Ponies frown upon us gryphons for eating meat, You and I know how delicious the taste of flesh is. I know it's harder for you to enjoy it because you are half pony...But you are also still half human."

Starfall sighed in despair. "I suppose you can't tell me more than simply what I already know?" he asked rhetorically.

Gustav nodded with a frown. "You know that your mother took every precaution, she has ordered any of your fathers friends or acquaintances to keep silent about your kin or your father before the day you were even born...I'm sorry Starfall. I can't imagine what you are going through..." the gray gryphon sympathized with the prince.

The prince sighed again "It's alright" he jumped off his chair and made his way back to his room. "au revoir Gustav, vous voyez plus tard demain."







Starfall was sitting with his legs crossed whilst looking over the sunset that was slowly descending down towards the horizon. The tree's had shifted their beautiful emerald green foliage to pumpkin orange. This magnificent sight always did help the prince think about. The prince also saw how all the birds were soaring in the sky, "Freedom..A luxury I may never know.." He said to himself. His mind had been barraged with thought of what happened between him and Skyla at the grand galloping gala. He didn't understand, the guards that had been assigned to deliver her presents and letters, told him that she received it.

A sudden flashback of all his encounters with Skyla's father flashed in front of his mind. His voice echoed throughout Starfall's mind.

Stay away from my daughter...

Princess, how can you allow these savages sit next to you...

Abomination...

"I can't believe that I didn't notice something that was completely obvious...My visions..My dreams...and my history all points towards one obvious answer...And I am ashamed that I didn't notice it before. Shining armor..." He said in a cold voice. "But without proof...there is no point...She would obviously believe her father over me.." Starfall was just about to give up and let Shining armor win..But his despaired was cleansed quickly as he started to tremble with anger. Starfall felt like every fiber of his body was pushing him to not give up. Like it was in his blood.

"What am I talking about!? I am Prince Starfall. Sovereign prince of all of Equestria, and I will show that...That..-" He stopped for a second to pick a word that could describe the disgraced captain. "That fucking dickhead!" Starfall frustratingly spoke out loud. After he had picked the words that his father had taught him, He felt exhilarated from the words alone..Like it took the edge off.

“I will show him…” He whispered under his breath.







The prince had just completed his preparation for his plan. Frosthowl had his saddle on his back and now all that was left was for the prince and the wolf to sneak out.

"You ready?" He asked Frosthowl before leaving his room. He responded with a assertive nod.

Starfall wasn't going to sneak out of the castle. He was going to sneak inside the mountain. He made his way casually towards the Starswirl the bearded wing without being hindered or stopped by any guards. He approached the gate to the library and used his magic to unlock the gate. He and Frosthowl entered still unhindered any guards or his mother.

"Hm..Too easy.." He said quietly. "Oh well." He shrugged. He made his way towards a specific location he had read about the library. He was searching for the forbidden section, where all the dark and forbidden magical secrets are. But his goal wasn't to study, so he kept  focused on his goal.

Frosthowl didn't bother his master or get in his way, he trusted Starfall's cunningness. "Here we are, The Forbidden Section..." The gate had a powerful magical seal that nopony could break. "This gate is sealed with the blood of Celestia. Some of that blood flows in my veins and might work to unseal it." He said turning his attention towards Frosthowl.

He took out a small sharp knife and cut his index finger and very small drops of blood started to pump out of the wound. He put his finger on the lock. "Please let this work!" He begged to his grandmother. A red flash cracked the lock and unlocked the gate. "Success!" He said with a overjoyed grin.

The prince slowly opened the creaking gate and felt a disturbing evil surrounding him. Starfall felt his spine shivering slightly from the dark section. He stepped closer to Frosthowl who noticed the prince's fear. "Sorry, these books radiate with black magic and forbidden knowledge." He spoke uncomfortably.

As he walked past the books that were mostly wrapped in red and black cover, some that were older than a thousand years and some that looked only a century old. Starfall felt as the books were crying out for him to unveil their secrets. But Starfall ignored their ghostly cries. Surprisingly Frosthowl didn't hear or feel any different towards being in the forbidden section. But that worried the prince even more, was it just his mind playing games on him...Or was something really calling Him.

His mind was distracted as he finally reached the brick wall that harbors the secret passageway. No words needed to be said and the prince started to knock on the wall, trying to find soft spot that would indicate that its not completely blocked off behind the wall. He eventually found it and started looking for some sort of push in brick. "Come on! You can't hide from me." One of the bricks slowly nudged backwards and the wall sunk down beneath the ground, revealing the big opening and stone staircase into the mountain. "At last! Now there is but one obstacle left..." He and Frosthowl slowly descended down the staircase and the wall went back to its rightful place.





Starfall and Frosthowl had been walking through the cave for a few minutes now. the cave was littered with crystals, diamonds and gems. There were small glittering pools of cave water and far off the sound of a unending stream of water falling down the mountain. He had of course heard rumors of about the mines beneath Canterlot that drove the miners to insanity and irrational greed. Starfall was doing his best to fight the fears that he felt just a few moments ago, But despite his fears he was determined to reach the crystal empire.

As the duo reached waterfall Frosthowl was the one to show signs of doubt and fear. He started yelping to no end.

Starfall comforted him by stroking the giant wolfs furry neck. "I know you don't like water or heights, but you need to trust me that I will catch you...I need you to trust me." Frosthowl looked down on his master, still yelping in fear. But as the words sunk in his head. He felt a bit assured by his words and took his proud and fearless stance to satisfy his master. "Good Boy!" Starfall scratched Frosthowl's chin which Assured him even more. "Lets do this!" Starfall took a glance at the steep fall down to the lake. "Lightbringer watch over me." With those final words he jumped...

Starfall's falling speed was accelerated more and more until he unfurled his wings which made his fall at a slower speed down towards the lake. He could feel his heart racing as he felt no ground under his feet and hoping that it wouldn't resolve in him getting crushed by the water surface. Starfall hit the water with a measurable amount of force but he survived and the ice cold water was already doing its best to freeze Starfall's body. He swam towards the nearby shore of the lake and looked up to see Frosthowl still not sure if he is ready to do this.


For a second Starfall was suspecting that he might not do it and he went back inside the cave. But his doubts over his companion vanished as he saw Frosthowl leaping through the air and with his high pitch yelping on the way down he was absolutely terrified. Starfall absorbed the glow of the moon to gather his magical powers. A silver aura surrounded the falling wolf and his fall speed was greatly reduced as he fell down towards the lake and got his fur completely soaked in water.


Starfall took a relieved breath as it all the obstacles had ben removed and from here on out it was a forward race before sunset. Frosthowl dog paddled towards his master and started to shake off all the water and pounce his master with a hug. "I'm so proud of you Frosthowl!" Frosthowl licked Starfall's face with his giant flat tongue. "Eew..You smell like a...- Errr never mind." He chuckled sheepishly. Frosthowl stepped off his master and let him stand up again. A cold wind hit the duo but Starfall was more affected than his companion. "Brrrr!" He shivered from the cold that his soaked cloths gave off. He was prepared for this as well and used a spell to dry out his cloths. "There!...I never thought I would use one of aunty Rarity's spells..." He shrugged and looked towards the horizon to the north. "From here on out its a wayward path to the Crystal Empire." Frosthowl dropped down on his stomach and Starfall jumped up on the saddle. "Lets see how fast you are, Go Frosthowl, show me the meaning of haste!" Frosthowl ran with a speed that made the prince lose his balance and the ground quaked under the giant wolf's paws.







“My dreams?” Starfall asked curiously, towards his aunt. “I don't have bad dr-” He was cut off before he could finish.

“-Frosthowl brought it to our attention...” Celestia said, nonchalantly.

At first, Starfall was about to start yelling out from his friends action but remember quickly that he had promised to talk to his mother about his day terrors. “Oh...Wait how did he tell you anything!?” Starfall asked confused as he usually had to guess.

Celestia gave her famous teasing smile “Frosthowl didn't tell me anything as I cannot understand him...But your mother on the other hand-”

“-Can talk to the creatures of the night...” Starfall wanted to hit himself in the face, he had promised to tell his mother about his dreams, but not when. “So I guess you know about my...-” Starfall couldn’t bring himself to finish as he looked with shame down on the floor. He was terrified to what his mother had seen and what she was thinking of him.

“Yes...” Celestia replied, with sympathy towards the young human. “As usual, if anyone was in desperate need of Her assistance, your mother took a closer look to as what is bothering you.

Starfall’s breath started to quicken as he was dreading words like “You are evil” or “You are just like Sombra.” It was a heavy burden for Him to bear with in his conscious. that the only other half human was an evil prince...His cousin and Her son. “Does she think I am a monster...?” Starfall said as he felt his throat closing and head pounding.

Celestia for a moment didn't know how to respond to Her nephew’s shockingly sudden question. But She quickly remembered that He had seen horrible visions of his fathers life and maybe even Alexander. Celestia’s jaw felt a quiver sadness towards her innocent nephew and quickly embraced him with a hug. “Of course not! Don’t you ever think that!” She felt like crying on his shoulder but quickly debunked that thought, She had to be strong for Him. “Your mother loves you with all her heart!” Celestia felt her nephews arms around her back as he was embracing her as well. “You are not a monster Starfall, you are the beautiful Prince of Equestria.”

Starfall felt his aunt’s sadness conveying over to him as he was sobbing in her shoulder. “Bu- But why am I like I am? Why do I have these evil day terrors!” He struggled against the tears and sniffled.

Celestia broke the hug and guided his ashamed eyes up towards her. “Because they are not dreams...” Starfall stopped for a moment as She spoke. “Me and your mother have come to the conclusion that its your-” Celestia paused for a second before continuing. “-Your Father’s memories...” Starfall’s mouth opened in disbelief as His aunt spoke.

“My...My father’s?” His eyes gazed into Celestia’s before quickly shaking out of it. “It...It can't be true...That's impossible! My father was a hero and…-” Starfall felt like his whole existence was turned upside down. His breath quickened as he could hear His own heartbeat and everything going completely mute. But was quickly snapped out of it by Celestia putting her wing on his shoulder.

“Let me finish, me and your mother believe that your day terrors are related to you death five years ago...In other words, when you met your father in the spirit world, a part of him must have rubbed off on you...It could be possible that your dreams are half-truths.”

Starfall was slightly calmed down by this new revelation. “Half-truths? You mean like they are only partially true?”

Celestia nodded. “Some of your dreams were events that never happened, it would be understandable if some of your terrors were a mix between your fears and your fathers memories. But you dont need to worry about your father Starfall, Him and His brother in arms are heroes of Equestria, if not for him…-” Celestia didnt want to cotninue to the dark topic. “You need to be patient, your birthday is only four months away. All of your Questions will be answered then.”







Starfall rode on the exotic wolf through the relentless north wind, The night sky were emanating beautiful multi colored ley lines that were emanating from the crystal spire that was in the horizon.

“We’re here… But I can't have you following me!” Starfall dismounted from Frosthowl and put his feet deep in the arctic snow. Frosthowl yelped to help his master. “I’m sorry but I need to sneak in there quickly and I can’t do it with a 6 foot wolf behind me.” Starfall nuzzled the white wolfs neck. “I promise I’ll be fine.” He gently whispered and hugged his best friend. Frosthowl nodded and left his master to go alone in the winter night.

Starfall had to be careful not to be seen by any crystal pony or guards that could reveal his arrival, or else the whole town would be chasing to catch a glimpse of their king. The crystal streets were empty and lifeless with only a guard at every block patrolling. Starfall snuck carefully through the dark corners of the streets that had flickering lights that were aiding their kings path. A master of sneaking through the dark, Starfall had little to no issue reaching the crystal castle and preparing himself for the route to his objective. Slowly and silently walking up the stairs. He knew that there would be guards at the entrance and was correct, two purple crystal stallions were stationed with their swords ready to cleave any who wasn't authorized to come inside.

The prince knew he could approach them in several different ways, one was that he could simply order them as crystal king to look the other way...Or he could shadow step to a shadowy corner.

He decided that he couldn’t trust the guards and decided to shadow step. Starfall focused his meager blinking skills, in an instant he disappeared from sight and reappeared from the corner in the hallway. He looked back and saw that the guards hadn’t noticed him yet and quickly moved on. He eventually reached the final hallway, and was standing literarlly infront of the two guards guarding the door, but they could not see him.

Starfall put his hand inside his pocket and took out two platinum coins. He quickly glanced at the coin with a amethyst gem encrusted on the middle. Lets see if they are as badly trained as Vigile claim they are? Starfall threw the coins to the side and let them roll into the light and down the hallway, away from the door.

“Who goes there!?” The guards asked out loud sternly to whatever had caused the noise. Their eyes caught the attention of the rolling platinum coins. “Hurricane, look!” They both followed the coins and left their position to pick up the platinum coins down the hall but before they could return to their position, Starfall was already inside...

Wow… I can’t believe that it was that easy… Shining armor is a horrible captain… No wonder he despises Vigile.







He snapped out of his thoughts and started to take in the girly decorated room, full with pink cuddly plushies, several other things you would find in a filly’s room. But today She Wasn't a filly anymore. Starfall stepped closer to the bed and saw the sleeping Pink alicorn and looked at how she was free from his curse of constant frightful dreams and gently breathing through the silent night. He carefully sat down on the bottom corner of the bed and waited for her to wake up...

The prince saw that the daylight slowly approaching and he know that his powers had once again left him a mere human. Starfall was nervous to how Skyla was going to react to his Entrence He merely hoped that she wouldn't foil his plan by screaming for the guards when the time came.







The pink alicorn started to move around a bit, which caught the attention of Starfall and immediately looked at the mare who was slowly opening up her eyes. Skyla’s sight and mind were slowly adjusting to the daylight and saw a white clothed figure sitting on her bed which caused her to open her eyes in panic. “WHA!-” Starfall quickly interrupted her by putting his hand on her muzzle hindering her from yelling out.

“Don’t scream, I snuck out and left Canterlot to talk to you.” Her eyes narrowed with hatred towards the prince but was curious to hear what would have brought Starfall all the way to the crystal empire. Starfall slowly removed his hand and hoped that she wouldn't take the opportunity.

“What do you want!? What would bring the all mighty and kind Human to my room?” She said with a voice that was filled with so much malice.

“Skyla, I know that you hate me, But you need to give me an honest chance, as your friend.

Skyla’s demeanor wasn't changed and she in fact looked more angry than before. “Oh really!? And here I remember you saying that we were never gonna be friends again..Ever!” She wanted to yell louder, but she knew herself that if the guards would hear her, they would interrupt whatever had brought Starfall here. “When did we become friends again all of a sudden? When I revealed you as the awful pony that you are?”

Starfall sighed, sadly. “No...It was the moment before I…-..-Before I died…” Skyla’s angry frown was half way removed as Starfall spoke.

“Died? What do you mean Died? When did this happen?” She asked thinking it might be a lie.

Starfall remember in detail what happened that horrible night, the first time he killed something, the first time he let someone die, when he was supposed to save Her And before he fell on the icy snow, he remember seeing his life flashing in front of him, one of them was the smile that Skyla wore on her face the day he gave her the Sky necklace. He glanced at her neck and saw that she wasn’t wearing it anymore. “Almost six years ago...I was in ponyville to start my studies with Twilight...I had started earlier than we had agreed on and therforth I was in ponyville during my birthday.”

Starfall looked glanced at Skyla’s face and continued as she didn't interrupt him. “I had just left celebrating my birthday with aunty Fluttershy, when I heard a monstrous terrifying roar and a...High pitched wolf howl.” Skyla started to put a few of the pieces together as he mentioned the now fully grown wolf. “I let my curiosity get the best of me and as I ran to the forest I saw that there were two wolf protecting their cub against a nightmarish chimera...They...They didn't make it…” He wrapped up the details of the battle. “I tried to save the mother. She was in a horrible condition and I was...Scarred from my battle with the chimera.”

Skyla’s hatred in her eyes were gone now and filled with anticipating grief. “I tried to get help...I tried to save Her...But I wasn’t strong enough...My wound had taken its toll on me and before I fell...I saw my life flashing before my entire life…” Skyla’s eyes were tearing up as Starfall continued to speak. “And in my last moments I saw only your happy smile as I gave you your birthday present...After that...Everything went black.”

“Oh...My...Goodness...Thats why Mom had to leave? You died!?” She raised her voice with an vast amount of guilt trapped in her throat.

Starfall nodded. “Fortunately...My family...Our family was there to save me when I needed them the most. And after I decided to adopt Frosthowl as my familiar.” Starfall tried to hide his grief of what happened that day. But Skyla’s tears were already flowing down her cheeks. “I didn't forget what happened the night before...I got a second chance at life and I would not waste it. I told my mother to send you a letter that I had wrote and I promised I would send one every month...But eventually I never got a response and I thought you hated me.” Starfall sighed as he finished telling Skyla the truth.

Starfall was suddenly gripped by two hooves which pulled him closer to his friend. “I'm so sorry Starfall!” She cried into his shoulder. “I’m so SO sorry!” She squeezed tighter and Starfall hugged her back compassionately. “How...How could I have thought that you had forgotten about me.” they both recovered from the hug and Starfall could hear a small commotion outside which Skyla also took notice off.

“You deserve the whole truth, I will never lie to you Skyla.” Starfall stood up from the bed and motioned Skyla to follow as he made his way towards the door. “The truth is literally behind this door.” Starfall slightly opened the wooden door to reveal a Canterlotian crystal pegasus with a package under his hooves.








“Under the orders of Prince Starfall I was told to deliver this package to the crystal empire at sunrise, and only give it directly to Princess Skyla. I have my orders and his word is law. As the guards were about to let the pegasus guard pass through the door, a voice came from the hall, stopping him from entering.

“Stop right there!” A loud commanding voice that Skyla recognized immediately as her father’s rang out. “Your Prince isn’t here now, and I am the one in charge, if you dare to take as much as another step I will blast you to ash before you can even touch the door.” Skyla gasped at how brutal her father was towards a pegasus who was only doing his job. “Give me the package and fly back to your prince!” He said with a strong resentment in his voice.

The pegasus sighed and dropped the package on the floor before slowly walking past the former Captain of the Royal Guard. Shining Armor glanced back as he saw his two crystal guards looking worryingly at him. “Sir, won't he report back to the prince?” One of the guards asked their captain.

Shining Armor snorted. “Major Day Song has been keeping these couriers from telling the truth for years now. He won't be a problem.” He said smugly as he revealed the traitor inside the castle guard. Starfall’s eyes were burning with new found rage and hatred. He had seen enough.

“I beg to differ!” Starfall said out loud and opened the wooden door revealing skyla Behind the prince.

“Starfall!?- But..- How did you-?” Shining Armor was stumped and the guards were witnessing the whole thing.

“YOU TWO!” Starfall pointed towards the two guards “As The Crystal King I order you to leave my sight immediately before I send you to the dungeons to rot for all eternity!” The prince said furiously. The guards glanced at Shining armor before quickly doing as they were told. the white unicorn wasn't prepare from his guards sudden desertion. “He is all your Skyla.” Starfall said as he stepped to the side and let the pink alicorn confront her father.

“HOW COULD YOU! I thought you were my Best father friend forever! You lied to me all these years and you filled my heart with hatred towards someone who obviously cared for me more than you did! ...I...I can’t believe it...Even if it happened right in front of me, I still can’t believe that my own father would do such a thing against me and my Best and only friend!” Skyla mouthed out with the same fury that she had dropped on Starfall a couple of months ago. Shining armor still didn't know how to react at this and just kept his mouth open in disbelief. “I Never want to see you again-” Before Skyla could finish, Starfall intervened and went between them.

“-Skyla wait!.” Skyla stopped her flaring glare towards her father and looked surprised at the prince. “Shining armor could you give us a second? Unless you want me to let her continue?” He said knowingly that he wanted to avoid getting yelled out more by his daughter. He glanced at Starfall with anger in his eyes before pulling himself to turn around and walk towards the dining hall.

“Why did you stop me? You saw how he was the one responsible for all my years of misery because of him!” Skyla pointed towards the dining hall still steaming with rage.

“Be careful with the words you chose, I learned it the hard way… I don't want you to disown your father...I want you to find forgiveness.”

Skyla’s anger was completely shaken off as she couldn’t understand how Starfall could stand up for her father even tho he was responsible for their long separation. “I don’t understand, how can you ask me to forgive him? He is a horrible father… He lied to me for years FOR PONIES SAKE!” She stomped the ground as she vented out her anger.

Starfall sighed from her outburst. “I am not as fortunate as you to have a father… I plead my wish to the stars every day for my father. I never had someone who could teach me how to be a human, how I am supposed to live with myself when eating meat, what my talents are as a human and a friend who will never, no matter what, leave me… But everytime I wake up from my dreams, I find myself alone in the darkness with tears im wiping off on my pillow, Grieving for something that will never happen… I don’t want you to lose your father because of me… But I couldn’t let you live a lie, So it is up to you, if you want to forgive your father.”

Skyla didn’t know how to feel… She hated what her father did...But did she hate her father? She sighed as she decided she didn’t. During their time together he always did do his best to spend as much time with her as possible… Reading bedtime stories, taking her to the beach, letting her build a fort of jewels with the treasure. a tear fell on the floor. “Fine… I forgive him…” She slowly spoke and sniffled.

Starfall directed Skyla’s gaze towards his kind eyes. “There there, Skyla.” He hugged her. “Tell you what, Make your way towards the edge of the Crystal Empire, there is someone who really wants to meet you.” Starfall said with a warm smile, as he broke the hug. “And when you get there...Its time for you to see what I’ve got you for your birthday.” He started to give a cheesy smile before chuckling.

It felt like the presence around the whole empire had changed as Skyla smiled happily at her best friend. “Okay then, But promise me that you’ll hurry?”

Starfall rolled his eyes with a  smile. “Pinkie promise.”







Starfall headed towards the dining hall to talk to Shining armor. He opened the doors and saw that Shining armor was angrily waiting at him. “What did you tell her!?” He asked stepping closer threateningly.

“I told her to forgive her.” He replied nonchalantly.

“YOU WHA-...You what?” He asked completely dumbstruck.

“I told her that no matter what her father did, he still loves her and everyone makes mistakes...Tho yours came at the price of your daughters happiness.

Shining armor couldn’t believe what he was hearing… “You…-...Why would you do that? I thought you would tell her to hate me forever or something?” He asked the prince in disbelief.

Starfall stepped slowly closer. “Because I am not my father… I know of your differences with mine… I know what you and he did. But I will not be the herald of your schwabl, I don’t want to spend my life hating and scheming towards a rival. I just want to make my mother proud and make sure all of Equestria, is peaceful and harmonies.” Starfall confronted Shining armor who he was slightly taller. He extended his hand to the former captain. “It is time that you put your differences with my father aside and stop filling your heart with so much hatred.” Shining armor was hesitant, he wasn't sure if he could completely trust the human. “What has your hatred towards me and my father brought you?” Shining armor remember then what happened during the Grand Galloping Gala. When he committed his biggest mistake in his whole life, worse than the wedding fiasco.

He sighed, before grabbing the prince’s hand and shook it. “I can't believe I’m saying this but… You’re right, Its time for our vendetta to come to an end.” Starfall made his way towards the door as he was finished her. But before he could make his way out of the room he was stopped by Shining calling him. “Hey Starfall?” He turned around and gave his attention to the white unicorn one final time. “Your right, you aren't like your father...Your better then him.” He said with a genuine smile.







Starfall was walking in the field of grass towards the pair of alicorns and giant white wolf that they were patting on the stomach. “I see you’ve kiss and made up?” Starfall asked jokingly as he approached the alicorns.

Cadence gave the young prince a big smile before her attention was redirected towards what he was carrying. “What do you got there?” she pointed curiously towards wrapped box with a bow.

Skyla stopped patting Frosthowl and turned her attention towards Starfall. “With my birthday coming up soon and my choice to rule the Crystal Empire will be given to me on that day, I have come to the decision that I want you to rule the Crystal Empire when you reach of age.”

Skyla and Cadence gasped at the same time as they knew what he was trying to say. “But...I am as of this day an adult… Does this mean-? Skyla and her mother were waiting for Starfall to finish her guess.

“Correct!” He went down on one knee and offered the present for Skyla. Her mother closely watched as Skyla opened the present. As the she removed the wrapping, she saw it held a medium sized plastic case, and as she opened it, both alicorns were lost for words and gasped in disbelief.

A flash of light appeared by Skyla’s flank and a image of a crown that resembled the crystal spire was born…






Two days later…

Starfall was sitting on his mother's throne waiting for a particular guard to enter. The doors opened and revealed a white unicorn with blond hair and golden armor. “What can I be off service your majesty?” The guard bowed down before his prince and kept his gaze towards the ground as he took of his helmet.

Starfall signaled the guards the step closer. “Major Day song, I am going to ask you only once!” He said with a very stern voice. Day song’s posture was slightly changed as he was fearing that he had been on to him. “Did you help Shining Armor by threatening the couriers I sent with a dishonorable discharge?”

The armored unicorn stood up from shock. “Of course not, your majesty! I am loyal to the throne!” Starfall sighed as he lied to him.

“I would have shown you mercy if you had told me the truth, but you force my hand.” Behind the throne appeared the same pegasus that had delivered the package to the Crystal Empire two days ago. “I believe you two have already met?” He said rhetorically. “Tell me what happened when you came back to the castle?” Starfall asked the nameless pegasus.

“I had just returned from Canterlot, so, as protocol dictates, I reported to my superior officer to inform him of where I had been, as, for some reason, any pegasi that arrive in the Crystal Empire are to be directed to Major Day Song immediately.” Day Song was beginning to sweat and fidget. “He told me that if I mentioned that Shining Armor received your delivery, he was going to throw me in the dungeon for ten years.” The pegasus’ voice had noticeable traces of anger at the end.

Starfall nodded. “What gave you the courage to report this treason to me?”

The pegasus rose his head proud and strong from his previous stance. “I am loyal to the throne, even at the cost of my life!” He responded with pride in his voice.

Starfall smiled. turning his attention back to Day song, He cleared his throat before speaking. “Major Day song, you are hereby Discharged from the royal guard for acts of treason and disorderly conduct. You will have five years to reflect on your actions in the dungeons. TAKE HIM AWAY!” Starfall ordered the guards to place a magic disruptor on Day Song’s horn and shackle his hooves, and they escorted him out of the throne room as Starfall turned towards the window.

He sighed before he spoke to no visible pony. “Well, how did I do?” He asked the invisible alicorns that revealed themselves after he spoke.

Luna smiled with liquid pride forming around her eyes. “A fair and just punishment. I am so proud of you!” She removed the tears from her eyes and Starfall turned his attention back to the pegasus from earlier.

“What is your name, guard?”

“Sir, First Sergeant Zenith, Sir!” He replied, saluting.

“Well then, Colonel Zenith, I thank you for your loyalty towards the throne!” Starfall said, putting his hand on Zenith’s shoulder. “You were ready to sacrifice your freedom and name for what is right and such a pony is always a needed in my guard!”

“Thank you, your highness!” He lifted his head and chest with pride from his recent promotion.


End of Act 2

> Chapter 11 Crystal Queen's History
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Starfall's vision trembled as the golden mane of the white unicorn he was holding dwindled like a fire being slowly suffocated. He dragged his sight toward the white unicorn, looking at the white canines presented to him. The sun hung atop a higher plane, looking down on the lesser creatures below. Starfall stared beyond the hideous beasts and towards the sun, feebly attempting to escape the situation. Yet still he still felt the witnesses’ eyes boring into his head, and in his hands he felt the poor creature desperately clinging on to what little life it had left. His eyes were stinging though he refused to let himself look at what he held, but the stinging was too much… too much... 

He looked down quickly at the dead unicorn, and in the daylight, a single teardrop glistened beautifully for the short while before it fell, but was lost forever as it soaked into the body.

"I made a promise to his mother before I died, that I would find a way to save my son's soul..." 

The human picked up the dead unicorn and turned towards the elements of harmony, Princess Cadence, A younger version of spike and the crystal ponies all witnessing the tragedy. "You shall have a burial in the most fertile garden of Canterlot, where your body will rest next to mine." The ponies that were witnessing the whole thing stepped out of the human's way as he opened a portal that had a living image of Canterlot throne room.

Starfall's eyes slowly creaked open and knew the vision had come to an end. He sighed before he spoke. "One more thing to add to the list."







The day had finally come, today was Starfall's 13th birthday and he had just gotten out of the shower before making his way towards The Crystal Empire. Frosthowl was waiting outside of his room, giving his master some privacy while he was drying up and changing cloths. The Prince couldn't help but to look at himself in the mirror and his short human size. He was confident that he was somewhere from 136-141 centimeters tall, despite him being taller than anyone else, except spike, Starfall was anxious to find out just how big he is going to get, his mother had told him that his father and uncle were 185 and 191 and the fact that he was a legal adult in Equestria yet lacked the basic height of one...He started to feel like a failure. Even his wings were a embarrassing size, he couldn't even fly with them.

He leaned in closer and looked and removed his lips covering his teeth. He saw that his canines that seemed to be growing and growing. Despite the very clear sign from nature telling him that eating the dead is part of who he is, he refused to accept it and quickly made his way towards his wardrobe and started getting dressed.






Starfall, dressed in his beautiful crimson and heaven's white robe that he wore on Skyla's birthday, now enlarged with some help of his mothers magic he made his way towards the throne room where a chariot would be waiting, but came only to find his mother sitting on the throne room finishing up some paperwork before the dawn.

"Mother? Where is everypony?" Starfall asked as he looked left and right to reveal a abandoned throne room.

"Sorry sweetheart. but I had to finish some paperwork, so I let Tia and the others go before me, I'll teleport us to the empire once I've finished up here." She said, the pen never stopping it’s relaxed scrawling as it’s mistress calmly kept her focus on her work.

Starfall knew something was off, "Okay?" He bowed and turned towards Frosthowl and shrugged in confusion, The albino wolf also looked at the Prince, also confused by the sudden news.

Minutes had gone by and a sudden swirling smoke popped up in front of the throne. Starfall recognized it as Spike's dragon fire messaging. Luna smiled as she read the note. "We can depart now my little moonshine." She said, her malicious smile unsettling the young prince.

Starfall stood back at attention, cancelling his game of go fish with Frosthowl. The wolf growled, Once again politics had squandered his card game dominance.  "Finally! I hope that I don't have to spend this much time on paperwork when I'm ruling alongside you." Starfall groaned.

Luna gave a small giggle as she walk down the stair steps from her throne. "Don't worry about it so much." Luna nuzzled her son's cheek and noticed there was a small stain on his other cheek. "Sweetie you got something on your face." Luna slightly licked her hoof and started to wipe away the the small stain on her son, which he started to try to repel off.

"Mhph- Mother! I'm not a little colt anymore!" He said as he wiped away his mother's saliva on his cheek.

Luna laughed a bit with liquid pride in her eyes. "You will always be my little moonshine no matter how old you are." She put her wing on his cheek and gave her son a warm smile.

"Yes,yes You've said it a million times. Let us depart now."

In a flash Starfall was brought to a dark room where his eyes quickly switched to nocturnal and he saw all the quiet pony's who were expecting him and waiting for his arrival.

"You know, that I can see you Aunt Pinkie?" Starfall commented. He had expected to hear a disappointed groan but instead the room flickered the lights back on and his eyes felt like they were burnt of their sockets. "AOW!" His pain was met with a loud cheering.

"SURPRISE!" All the ponies yelled out ignoring the child in pain. Pinkie was thrilled that she thought that she had finally managed to surprise the prince. "I FINALLY DID IT!" She rejoiced.

This is going to be a fun evening... He thought grimly as his eyes recovered.






The evening went as expected. Most of Starfall's family and friends were there to celebrate his birthday with him. He had the pleasantries of eating, finding out that the cake was 'hay' cake. As his face slowly twisted in disgust, pinkie fell over laughing.
“Tricked ya!” she chirped. Starfall just shrugged it off and got to slice the real one. The night sky was reaching it's peak as it was time for Starfall to open his present's.

"I'm still not comfortable accepting gifts from you all, I am happy with the Party Aunt Pie threw for me." Starfall frowned humbly towards their request to offer him a birthday present.

Everyone rolled their eyes from his stubbornness to let loose and enjoy himself. "Come on Starfall! Don't be such a downy frowny and just have fun!" Pinkie put her hooves on his cheek and simulated a smile. "And besides, I'm sure you'll LOVE LOVE LOVE what we have for you!" She said, barely containing herself from spoiling the surprise.

Starfall sighed. "Very well." He lifted his hand to let them resume. To his surprise, Dinky, Vigile and Luna were the only one appear to be offering something. "Really? Only you three? I expected something much more... out of proportion... Oh well." He shrugged.

Vigile walked closer to the crystal throne. "Before your father died, He asked me to give you this once you were old enough." Starfall stepped off his throne and bowed to his friend. "Thank you Vigile." He slowly took a black plastic case. Everyone was anxious to see what was inside.

Starfall slowly opened the case and what he saw widened his eyes. "That is one. Big. Dagger...Or is it a sword?" He asked Vigile who shook his head. "A beautiful design and a very...- Wait what is this Mtech?" He asked as he looked on the small inscription on the blade.

"I don't know. That knife was forged in the human world." Vigile's answer took Starfall by surprise.

"Human world!?" Starfall went back eyeing the impressively smithed piece of metal. "This knife is literally out of this world..." Everyone groaned at the awful pun. Starfall stopped his boyish grin and looked back at Vigile with a grateful smile. "Thank you my friend, your loyal service to my father is unquestionable, and I am humbled by your gift." He put his hand on the Captain's shoulder and gave him a thankful smile.

Vigile bowed to his prince and stepped back to let his daughter offer her gift to him. She stepped forward and held in her magic a small box.

"Happy birthday Starfall!" She said, her warm smile enchanting him to blush. Starfall gently accepted the box and felt it barely had any weight to it. He glanced at Dinky as he opened it. "This was given to me 14 years ago on my sixth birthday by your father, I've carried it since then until, you were born."

Starfall dropped the box. In his hand lay 2 ellipse pieces of metal and a small beaded necklace that was attached to it. His eyes were gazing ever so intensely at the inscription.




Anthony W.
Crimson	6.1
Blood type HH
Christan




On the other side it had a image of a anker behind a planet and a eagle on the top of it with a snake in its beak, and it said:

SEMPER FI
USMC

"What is this necklace?" He asked as his eyes were released from the two plates and looked back on the beautiful young mare.

"That necklace was given to me a few days after Amy was foalnapped by Diamond dogs, fortunately your father and his best friend were there to rescue her in less than two hours. He said that I was very brave to endure such a experience and gave me it as a birthday present and I thought it would be more than fitting if you would have it. It was worn by heroes just like him and you." All the ponies and dragon glanced at each other with a heartwarming smile from the thoughtful present.

Starfall did his best to hold back the tears and just responded by hugging her. "Thank you..." He whispered into her ear as he sniffled. He removed the tears from his eyes and went back to his previous composure. "Words can't explain how much this means to me." Dinky bowed, stepping back to let his mother give the final present.

Luna had nothing in her mouth or magic. Starfall was anxiously waiting. "The day you were born was the happiest day in my life and I am confident it was your father's as well. He gave his life to make sure you would live. I wish he could see you now, all grown up and soon you will be just as big and strong as he was." Starfall felt a blushing embarrassment from his mother’s words. "But as of this day, you are a legal adult and thus it gives me the joy of acknowledging you as a fellow ruler of Equestria!" An image of the throne room revealed to have a large throne in between his mother’s and aunt's with the mark of an eclipse. "As of this day you are an equal to me and my sister. Happy birthday Prince Starfall!" A silver crown, controlled by his mothers magic was placed on his head.No matter what species or title, all the ponies in the room knelt down to the newly crowned sovereign Prince of Equestria.

Starfall was lost for words. He had known that the day he is of age, he would rule Equestria next to his mother and aunts, but he still was so shocked and humbled to be crowned an equal. He immediately starting thinking of a speech to ease his subjects and fellow rulers. "Thank you mother, I hope I will be as wise and kind ruler as you. But from the roots of the tree more than one new branch is born, today is not only my day, but also Skyla's." Everyone stood up as they had noticed Skyla's cutie mark from before the party. Luna nodded as she knew where he was going with this. "Are you ready Skyla?" He offered his elbow to lead the way outside of the castle with the pink alicorn.





The group made their way out of the palace with all of the citizen of the Crystal Empire all awaiting their prince. a prepared stage was set and the pair stepped up to it with Zenith The Loyal following his prince whilst carrying the crystal crown on a wine red cushion.

Behind the stage where all of their friends and family watching with joy and happiness for the young alicorn.

Starfall cleared his throat before using his Royal Canterlot Voice. "Citizens of the Crystal Empire! Today we have gathered here for the Coronation of Princess Skyla's ascendancy to Crystal Queen! All of the crystal ponies started cheering with joy. Zenith moved presented the spire crown to Starfall who delicately took it with his hands. "As my right as Son of Crystal King Crimson and the descendant of Crystal King Alexander, along with the blessing of the previous Crystal Queen!" Starfall glanced over to His aunt Celestia who nodded with a smile.
"I hereby crown you, Crystal Queen!" The Crystal ponies frantically started cheering towards the new Crystal Queen. " The crown was placed on top of Skyla's head. "All kneel before Crystal Queen Skyla!" All the crystal ponies and the party guests knelt down, but the elements and princesses were looking towards Starfall.

Their eyes kept on the young human as he lowered his body down on one knee, with his left hand resting limply on his lap and right fist on the the ground, he also kept his gaze towards the ground. Tears ran down Luna’s face. It had been thirteen long years, but little Starfall had finally grown up. She felt Celestia’s wing on her back, and felt her gaze on her tears. 

“He would be so proud.” Luna didn’t turn, nor did she reply. She simply nodded once.

"It’s too dramatic if you ask me." Pinkie cut in between their admiring.





It was the hour of twilight before the sunrise. Starfall was sitting in the train with his family and friends back to their respective homes. Starfall was channeling a ember spell that was a small burning flame hovering above his hand as he could feel the heat coming of it in the cold winter night. Most of the ponies were sleeping, Only Celestia,Vigile and Zenith were awake. Celestia could feel how it was time for her to raise the the sun and lower the moon, and she did. The dawn light was blazing towards the young prince and his ember vanished from the lack of magic.

"Aunty Celestia, Vigile, I am ready to hear and learn about my father, My race and Alexander. The time has come for you to reveal who and what I am." He spoke calmly as he turned his gaze towards the Captain and his aunt.

Vigile glanced at his sleeping daughter to make sure she couldn't hear any of their discussion and quickly turned back. "Very well. Do you wish to begin Princess or shall I?" He asked.

Celestia raised her hoof. "I should tell him." Starfall's full attention was directed towards his aunt. Celestia sighed before speaking.

"To understand about your father and ancestor's burden." Celestia hesitated, still unsure whether to tell the boy. After all, it was ponies who matured at 13, not humans. When Celestia looked into Starfall’s eyes she didn't see a brave man, she saw a brave boy pretending to be a man. He had no idea of the decimation that Equestria had suffered. However, She had promised the boy it was at 13 that he’d learn about his past. She could no longer hold this off.

She sighed once again, and looked back at Starfall, her gaze lost in memories. "Crystal King Alexander... My husband came from a world full with warmongering humans, and he was the most ruthless warmonger there was... He conquered nations and slew hundreds of thousands of his own kind. But the nature of his kind wasn't his fault... It was the curse of a very, very powerful creature, More powerful than me and your mother combined. His name was... Legion."

Celestia could still feel the echo of the Dark Archangel's evil. "Every time I think about him, My fur coat shivers from the thought of him. Legion is a being that inhales sadness and despair, breaths out anger, hatred and war. It is responsible for countless atrocities towards your kind...millions upon millions of humans are dead due to his influence and power." The final sentence really took Starfall by shock and sorrow, yet he did his best to hide it. Celestia however saw this and decided to let it sink in.

"From the sound of it, you describe It as the complete opposite of Grandmother Lightbringer."

Celestia nodded. "Thats because He is. Mother thrives in the happiness and goodwill of all creatures in the world, and in turn, she spreads more joy and happiness to the world." Celestia paused, trying to remember Legion in detail. "While Legion, a being that feeds off and creates evil, sustains itself like a parasite and revels in the greed, lies, anger, anguish, hatred, war and pride of all creatures, but unfortunately, humans seemed to have the most potential when it came to these emotions, or if you would say, a better and more plentiful harvest."

Starfall kept his gaze towards his aunt the whole time and let her continue and him to process all the new information. Celestia sighed before getting to the hard part. "As you learned six years ago, the first humans in Equestria were running amok, Killing thousands of creatures and nearly driving the dragon population to extinction. But what you don't know is that they were being manipulated by Legion which had been controlling Discord against his will."

"-So that he could create misery and evil that he could feed on?" Starfall concluded his aunt's sentence and Celestia nodded.

"But amongst the human's, a newly freed Alexander finally regained control over his body and with it came his attempt on his life. But being still a devoted leader, he couldn't just simply kill his own men, so he decided to flee with only very few casualties that were absolutely necessary." Celestia looked out on the dripping window glass to see the Neighagra falls endlessly pouring the Essential water source to all of Equestria.

"Aunty, could you explain to me how Alexander could fight and escape a thousand warriors hunting him?" Starfall leaned slightly closer giving her, his full attention.

Before Celestia could answer, Vigile stepped in. "- Because Alexander was tricked and enslaved to be the Avatar of Legion." Starfall and Celestia both directed their eyes towards the pegasus. Celestia mouthed thank you to Vigile, it was hard for her to remember Alexander for what he truly was. "But when he fell in the human world, he woke up here, miraculously freed from his tie to Legion, but to immediately find that his own kin where now slaves to the same evil." A small cold wind blew through one of the open windows that was supplying the large wagon some fresh air, whipping the mane’s of the sleeping ponies beside it. Celestia turned to look at the distraction, desperate to escape the past. "After his escape, Alexander was roaming the world, trying to find allied forces or any form of sanctuary. Unfortunately, he was ambushed by a dragon. He managed to beat back the dragon, but he himself was mortally wounded..." Vigile directed his attention towards Celestia to signal her to take over as this is where she came in.

Celestia took a deep breath before speaking and looked at her nephew with her sparkling amethyst eyes. "That is when I found him.. Lying on the ground, still breathing but with a lot of lost blood. At first glance, I was about to fly away from the conscious human begging for help. But I took pity on him, I couldn't let any innocent creature die helplessly, but when I did help him, I immediately sensed a different aura, compared to the rest of his kind." Starfall sympathetically smiled to his aunt. He decided to go sit next to her. He went over to her seat and crossed his legs as he put both his right wing and arm around her back. Her warm fur coat kept, warmed him a little and his affectionate hug made her smile with love gleaming in her eyes for her nephew. She felt renewed strength to continue with the story.

"Despite his human weight, I was strong enough to carry him on my back as I flew him back to the royal castle just at the edge of Everfree- err I mean Everlife forest. At first, your mother was ready to put Alexander off his misery but I quickly intervened and we came to a decision to nurse him back to health." Starfall was a bit taken back by his mother's cruelty but quickly continued to listen to his aunt. "After I nurtured him back to health, with a little bit of help from my sister, he told us his story. He told us his name, his origin and his title. He also told us of his pact with the Dark Archangel."

The word Pact made Starfall peer up at his aunt in confusion. It meant that he had willingly accepted Legion's curse. "But why would he make a pact with Legion?"

Celestia sighed. "It was a hard time for him, he had just witnessed his father's assassination and without a commander of their army, Alexander was hopeless to defeat a force, four times the size of his, so when Legion appeared, he offered the power to defeat the opposing nation, and he accepted." Starfall could feel how his aunt's sadness over her lost love was starting to take its toll on her.

"Vigile, what happened after he was nursed back to health?" The Prince asked his trusty Captain to answer so his aunt could take a break.

Vigile didn't waste a moment to answer. "He went and confronted his men, and revealed the truth to them about Discord's lies."

"Lies? What lies?" Starfall raised an eyebrow at the Captain.

Celestia,Vigile and Zenith all shared glances amongst each other. And Celestia nodded at the Captain. "You may not know this, but Humans in their world, have no magic. it only exist in old maretales. You see... Humans are born with unique abilities, such as complete immunity to magic... And magic stealing..."

Starfall's attention was fully peaked and his eyes were both widely open as he stared in awe from the new reveal of his kind’s terrifying powers. "But... My mother and even you aunty Celestia have used magic several times to teleport me and even heal my wounds. And what is magic stealing?" Starfall's curiosity was interrupted by a voice emanating from behind Captain Vigile.

"Daddy are we there yet?" Dinky drowsily broke the silence as she slowly rose up from her seat that she had been sleeping on.

Vigile, Celestia, Zenith and Starfall all directed their surprised gaze at the newly woken mare. Starfall's first and only priority was to get everyone's attention. "Eh... As I was saying Vigile, I think its best if we discuss Zenith's poor performance when we get back home." All of the ponies looked confused at the prince sudden change of heart. Starfall however was desperately hinting with his head towards Dinky who was still too tired to notice his pointing. But Vigile however picked up on it and smiled as he turned his attention towards Zenith.

"Get your head in the game soldier!" Vigile smacked the backside of Zenith's head. Vigile turned his head back towards his daughter. "Don't worry Honey, We'll be home soon." He smiled warmly towards Dinky and she nodded and fell back on the seat.

Zenith was rubbing his head after being hit in the backside of his head but he wouldn't speak up against his prince, even if he didn't do anything wrong. "Forgive me for my misconduct, sir." He bowed to Starfall, begging for forgiveness for doing nothing.

Starfall thought that Zenith would take the hint and just play along. Starfall leaned closer to the pony and whispered: "It was just a act, we don't want to speak of genocide in front a lady." He leaned back and Zenith nodded. "we will continue to talk when we get home... But until then.-" Starfall gave a tired gasp. "I'm going to rest. Good night aunty, thank you for enduring my questions." Starfall leaned closer and nuzzled her neck.

Celestia gave the young boy a kiss on the forehead. "Good night Starfall." Starfall bowed to the two guards and made his way to the royal sleeping booth where his mother and Frosthowl were sleeping. He silently opened the slide door and saw her sleeping peacefully, it would be about four hours before they would reach Canterlot and in the meanwhile, despite his mother sleeping on the bed, Starfall didn't mind sleeping on top of Frosthowl like a giant fur bed. He slowly laid down close to Frosthowl and rubbed up close to the furry wolf who was drowsily woken up as he came into contact with him but quickly went back to sleep.

The mares in my life is going to be the end of me. Starfall thought ironically and smiled before fading away to the world of dreams.






Starfall was sitting in the royal booth, he could see Canterlot on the horizon and he was looking forward to getting home and rule alongside his mother and aunt as equals. Frosthowl was lying on the large bed, big enough for a human and was being stroked by his bored master. "What you suppose the first thing we do when we get home?" His question was ironically answered by two knocking sounds that was asking permission to enter the booth. "Come in!"

To Starfall's fortune, it was Dinky who had been knocking on his door. "Hey Starfall, what you up to?" Dinky entered and shut the door behind her.

A smile crept quickly on the young human's face. The mare of his dreams had came to check up on him. "Oh nothing, I just woke up half an hour ago, I felt the need to be alone so I just decided to sit her with my own thoughts."

Dinky kept her friendly smile as she went up to the bed. Starfall's heart beat more rapidly as he was this close to his crush and he was trying to look nervous or give the impression of it. "Mind if I give you company?" She asked gracefully as ever.

Every second he was with her felt like a lifetime of joy he had ever experienced. "Of course not, please." He raised his right hand and signaled her to sit with him. Frosthowl raised his head from his position as he felt some of the madras leaning down by his paws and noticed it was his masters desired mate. Dinky acknowledged him with a wave. and he went back to resting. "He is something Isn't he?" Starfall gave the gray-purple unicorn a confident smile.

"You know, you never mentioned how the both of you met. Its not like you can pick up a six hoof tall wolf from the closest pet store." Dinky asked jokingly.

Starfall gave a small chuckle. "Me and him have been friends since I was seven..."

"I don't doubt it, but that wasn't my question. You're trying to go off-topic like last time!" Dinky slightly bumped the prince on his shoulder as she started giggle.

It's better than the alternative... He thought to himself, as he wouldn't want to go into detail about how Starfall failed to save the young cub's mother. His real smile was replaced with a fake one.

"Alright, alright, I found him during hearths warming eve, exactly 6 years ago. He was so innocent and his mother wasn't ..Around so I waited with him a few hours, hoping his mother would find him, and with me there to protect him in case. But she never came... I couldn't just leave him all alone in that horrible blizzard so I decided to take him home." Starfall felt guilty about lying, but he had no intentions of scarring the innocent mare. "Luckily, my mother loves wolves due to their connection with the moon. So we decided to keep him, and ever since then...-" Frosthowl perked up and raised his body to lie on his stomach and started to pant happily at his master. "I eventually came to see him not as a pet or a friend, but as a brother I never had. Similar to me in many ways." Starfall scratched the albino wolf's jaw, and he reacted by going completely limp. "And over the years, we've gotten to know each other pretty well." 

“What? so if i scratch your chin you’ll go completely limp?” The two shared a laugh at the joke.

 Quite possibly… thought Starfall. He stopped and looked over the smiling unicorn. "Come to think of it, you know so much about me, and with your father ranting endlessly about me, It would only be fair if you would tell me a little bit about yourself." Starfall suggested with a joking smile, one he did not know he had.

Dinky gave a snorting smile. "Well...-" Her story was cut short by the screeching of the train stopping and grabbing everyone's attention.

"Canterlot City your majesties! Watch your step while leaving the train!" The Conductor yelled out in the other room.

Dinky's ear perked down with a frown on her muzzle. "That's a shame." Dinky stood up and turned her attention back to Starfall. "Looks like that will have to wait until next time Your highness"

Starfall panicking and he didn't want the mare of his dreams to leave. So his mouth spoke words, he had not intended. "How about tomorrow!?" He snapped, and the purple-gray unicorn stopped, she turned around and looked at the prince in confusion.

No turning back now...

Starfall took a relieving deep breath as he composed himself. "How about we meet tomorrow. Dinner at Canterlot's finest restaurant."

Dinky looked puzzled for a moment at Starfall's invitation. "Dinner?" She asked nervously.

"And music!" He added hoping it would increase his chances. His forehead was sliding down drops of nervous sweat, hoping she would accept his offer. "Sometimes, guests are allowed to show their musical talents and perform. I think a Prince of Equestria shouldn't have any problems convincing the employees to let us play."

Dinky gave a submitting sigh. "You sure know how to close a deal, very well, Dinner and music it is at...?"

"The Bluemoon!" He snapped nervously again.

Dinky gave a confident smile. "The Bluemoon it is then. pick me up at five tomorrow evening." And with those words, the beautiful mare made her way out of the royal booth.

Frosthowl looked at Starfall as he stared after his desired mate. He snorted at his master’s silly behaviour. Starfall turned to the wolf, embarrassed. “Shut up.” he said mockingly before scratching the wolf’s jaw again.
	
	
	
	
> Chapter 12 Heart of Glass
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Prince, more excited than he has been for years, was being tended to by the royal groomers. His hair was perfect and his pristine white wings were being preened as he just relaxed and let the maids do their thing. Starfall usually took care of his looks and hygiene on his own, but today it was a special day. Arguably the only time Starfall deemed worthy enough to be tended too.

”My prince, what has you so happy today?” one of the maids asked as she was preening his wings.
It was unusual for a maid to start talking to royalty, but his humble reputation had spread over the years and all the servants were more like friends or equals.

Starfall smiled at the question. ”I finally mustered the courage to ask out the mare of my dreams to dinner.”
The nameless maid was overjoyed for her Prince and gave him a sincere smile. ”That’s wonderful! I can guess by your decision that she must be the most wonderful mare in Equestrian. Your highness is planning a royal wedding soon?” She teased, once again dragging the cone through his hair.

Starfall chuckled and gave the maid a cheeky smile. ”Of Course! And I’m thinking of having you as my best mare and handing my ring as she and I say our ”I do’s”” Starfall teased back and started to chuckle even more but his laughter was interrupted as She pulled out a feather with more force than necessary and made the flinch in stinging pain. ”Aow!” He looked back at the giggling mare.

”I’m sorry, did that hurt?” She asked ironically. ”Okay enough shenanigans, lets get you ready for your date.”

"I was hoping you could give me a few tips. This is my first time going out on a 'date'." Starfall sheepishly smiled. Starfall, the great co-ruler of all of equestria crumbling over a young mare. He felt a slight embarrassment over it.

The maid rolled her eyes. "Try to make it as much about her as possible, Mares tend to be very self absorbed." All the maidens looked at her with slight spite. "What? you know its true." She responded sheepishly. All the maids thought about it for a second but then mumbled in agreement, which led all the maids laugh out loud and leaving Starfall confused. "Sorry your highness,- anyways, make sure things don't get dull or else the evening can get very ...Difficult."

Starfall acknowledged the tip with a nod. "I will keep it in mind. Thank you....?"

The nameless maid laughed. "You still don't know my name?" She asked

"You cant blame me! I have arguably the third largest circle of acquaintances,family and friends. Which includes aunty Applejacks family...Throw me a bone here- AOW!" Starfall flinched in pain again from having a feather pulled out more forcefully.

"It's okay, I don't blame you. I'm lucky enough to talk to royalty. Before you were born, everyone was all quiet and boring, with the occasional shenanigans from your father and discord doing some prank on Celestia and Blueblood." She slowly shook her head with a smile.






While Starfall was waiting for his clothes to be brought to him, He couldn't help but to stare out through the window of his warm, bright room at the early winter night. The drops of gleaming white drops of frozen rain. The icy winds blowing endlessly like a restless sea, waves of cold air washing over and through the city. Beside him, Frosthowl twisted and turned in an endless nightmare, crums by his shiny fangs. He’d been overdoing on the chocolate cookies again.
“This is the night buddy.” he whispered, “Wish me luck.” Frosthowl only whimpered as he tussled with his demons.  

Starfall without the company of his trusty companion made his way to The Bluemoon restaurant. Starfall didn't want to compensate too much and decided to go without a fancy over the top cloak or shirt and just bare chested in the icy night. 

As he arrived at the destined time, he saw Dinky arriving at the same time as he did. A big smile crept on his face as he saw the mare of his dreams once again and he quickly approached her.

"You're punctual!" He asked rhetorically.

Starfall didn't get an answer, but instead got a shocked stare. "Aren't you freezing!?" Dinky asked concerned about Starfall not wearing anything to protect him from the cold.

Starfall waved her concern off. "Don't worry, I had a cold protection spell on me, See." Starfall put his hand on the mare's shoulder and she was surprised that his hand was warm.

"Oh. Okay then." She gave him a relieved smile. "Shall we enter?" She ask hinting the door with her head.

Starfall bowed and put his hand forward. "Ladies first!"







The Prince and the Violinist were sitting at a table. The restaurant was very beautifully decorated. The ceiling was a see-through glass so that you would always be able to see the large moon orbiting above. One of the wall was also see through, and reflected the waterfall endlessly falling down the mountain, you can also see the completely snow covered landscape of Equestria, and a glimpse at some cities off in the horizon glowing bright in the night. But despite the perfect choice for a date, Dinky was uncomfortable with all the attention she was getting from the other guests.

Starfall's blessed ears quickly picked up the whispering amongst the dinners and gave them a killing stare back not to ruin his night. Everyone who was staring quickly went back to their dinner and minded their own business. "Well? What do you think?"

Dinky turned her attention back to Starfall and gave him a amazed stare. "Indescribable! This restaurant is by far the most beautiful place I've ever been in, and I've played all around Equestrian's so called master pieces." Dinky smiled as she gazed back to the waterfall.

Starfall was happy that she was enjoying the scenery so much. "Well, Now that we are all-" Before he could finish, a waiter had nervously approached their table. 

"Excuse me, your highness, but could I have your order if you wouldn't mind?" The nervous waiter asked terrified as he levitated the menu's.

Starfall turned his attention to look at Dinky, subtly hinting her to ask first. "I will have the...-" She took a quick look at the menu and was shocked just how expensive everything was. She didn't want to run Starfall bankrupt and just put it down. "-I don't know, could you help me Starfall, since you've been here before." She gave a fake smile to hide her nervousness.

Starfall nodded. "Very well, She will have The Primal Diamond!" Dinky's eyes shot wide open at the mention of the 400 bit salad. "And I will have the Gryphon's Grace." He psychically levitated the two menu's back to the waiter. "And please bring us a bottle of Scarlet Delight."

The waiter froze for a second. "Forgive me your highness, but I do not wish to upset your mother, so I have to ask if you are old enough to drink?"

"I am as of today." He replied. The waiter just bowed and quickly made his way to the kitchen.

"Now, that we are all settled. Lets ta-" Once again before he could finish, The same waiter returned faster than Starfall could process. 

“Forgive me your highness!" He nervously presented the plate of pristine salad, Salmon file and 300 year old wine.

Mother fucker He thought frustratingly as he used one of his father's infinite swear words.







Before Starfall spoke. He looked  left and right, to see if anyone was going to interrupt him again. "Now, that we both are settled, Lets talk" He asked with a friendly tone and a bright smile.

Dinky put down the salad fork with her magic and smiled at the question. "Okay, I guess that I can begin with telling you a bit about myself." Dinky took a pause to quickly recap her childhood. "I was born in a single parent house. I lived with my big sister to help out my mother when things became too much. I lived in Ponyville until I was seven, which was when we moved to Canterlot to live with my step-dad Vigile." Dinky smiled at the nostalgia of her childhood. "When I was six, I got my cutie mark and your father helped my mother pay for tutoring lesson's with my mentor Octavia."

Starfall smiled that his father made such a good impact on Dinky's life. "How and when did you get your cutie mark?" Starfall asked curiously as he leaned slightly forward.

Dinky looked into The Prince's sky blue eyes and was stunned at their beauty. She quickly shook out off it and continued to speak. "It was my sixth birthday. I had just seen your father who came back to ponyville after being gone for three days. He was in town to have Rarity make a tuxedo for the grand galloping gala that was coming up." Starfall perked up at the mentioning of the same tuxedo that he wore a few months ago and the same tux that his father wore fifteen years ago. 

"Your father made a big entrance with his newly grown wings. He also let me fly on his back as he flew from Canterlot mountain to Ponyville in less than a few minutes. It was by far one of the best moments in my life, with me being a unicorn, I never knew how it was to fly." Her happy smile infected Starfall as she kept on telling the story. "After he flew me back to Ponyville, I made my way home and my mother was waiting for me with a present." She took a pause to take sip of her glass of wine. 

“I opened up my present anxiously, and inside the wrapped package, was a small violin made for a filly. At first I was a bit let down, I didn't want to seem unthankful, but even if it wasn't something I wished for, I still kissed and thanked my mother for the gift itself.”

Starfall was intrigued by just how humble she was. She wasn't greedy or selfish, she did have desires but she cared more about the thought of things. The Prince knew how most children in the high society life were, they got anything they wished for and always got their way. Never to be turned down or let down. But in their need for useless items that didn’t really have a worth, their parents never spent time with them, something Starfall was a little bit familiar with. His mother had more than several times had to focus on politics or some other royal duty, so he was left in the care of his foal sitter, Ditzy or Derpy as he called her when he was just three years old. And when he became older, he was under the watch off her daughter, Amethyst. 

“I would take a wild guess and say you must have been quite the novice with the violin until you got the hang of it?” He chuckled.

Dinky slightly rose her head with a blushing smile. “Actually, as soon as I started playing I was surprisingly talented at it!” Starfall’s chuckle was paused and gave her a ‘are you serious’ look.  But she nodded her head signifying that she was telling the truth.

“Wow! That is incredible. When I started playing the piano, I had to practice 6 hours every night for the past 2 years before I mastered it.” He said a bit embarrassed but quickly focused back on her again.

“In any case, when I played a tune that had lingered in my mind, I looked at my mother. She was in awe in my abilities to play the violin, but then something caught both of our attention. A small golden flash appeared in my flank and it took the shape of a violin streaming several musical notes.”

Starfall just gazed on the violinist in interest as she told her story of how she was telling her story of her cutie mark. “Intriguing! I am curious though, when was it the first time that you played in an orchestra?”

Dinky blushed from the compliment. “Five weeks after I had gotten my cutie mark, I had caught the eye of a famous model, by the name Fleur De Lis. Till this day I still think your Uncle Dawn Fury had something to do with me catching her attention.” She spoke as she her right hoof towards her chin in deep thought.

“You mean like she was doing a favour to him because they were friends?” He asked leaning even more forward in curiosity.

“There were rumours about them two.- No I shouldn't talk about this sort of stuff in front of a dinner table.” She leaned back in her chair in embarrassment. Despite her wanting to drop the subject, Starfall#s overwhelming human curiosity wanted to dig deeper.

“Please tell me! And technically it’s still lunch time, so…?”

Dinky looked left and right to see if anyone was around that could hear it. Her cheeks started to become even more red as she leaned in to whisper to the curious human. “Some say that he was… Seeing her.”

Starfall lifted his right eyebrow in confusion. “You mean like a special somepony or marefriend?”

Dinky shook her head. “No, as in… Intercorse…” Starfall’s jaw was about to fall down from the gossip. Dinky took notice of this and quickly put her hoof to his mouth and shushed him. “It could be just a rumour but…I don’t know, I always thought that she saw my gift and promoted me all around Canterlot because she genuinely thought in her own opinion, that I was something special.” Dinky lowered her head in self-doubt. Starfall saw how he had upsetted her.

“Of course you are special Dinky, I listened first hand at the concert hall, your divine violin skills. I've never heard sound perfected like you did. You could have been thrown in the dungeon for trying to put a magical enchantment on royalty.” He laughed, trying to cheer her up.

To his success, he did make her smile again. “Thank you, but I wouldn't expect you to tell me otherwise.” She lowered her head again in lack of confidence.

Starfall saw that he failed at cheering her up. He would have none of this. She was indeed an incredible artist, but she needed to show her that he was speaking truth. 
Starfall stood up from his cushion and grabbed Dinky by her hoof. “Starfall?” She asked confused.

“Just trust me” He said with a confident smile that confused Dinky even more. They made their way to the stage where there was a complete collection of different instruments. there was a stallion guarding the instruments. and the duo approached him. "Greetings, This young mare would like to play for the guest, I assure you on my honor and word as prince, that she is more than adequate." The stallion wanted to turn away nervous violinist standing behind Starfall. But he didn't want to risk the wrath of the human prince. He nodded and quickly sidestepped, allowing Dinky access to the restricted stage.

"Starfall, I really don't want to bother the other guests." She asked looking at the dinner guests that turned their attention towards the stage.

"Oh come on Dinky, you've played in front an audience before." the young human stated with a malicious grin.

Dinky growled a bit with frustration stuck in her throat. "Yes! But they payed to listen to me play, I don't want to disturb.-" Dinky looked at the guests which already were looking at her and the prince.

Starfall sighed, "Very well then, I will join you!" He made his way up to the stage, and mumbling could be heard from the ponies as they were surprised to see the prince participate, especially with the mare he was going out with. Starfall made his way towards the piano and sat down on the cushioned piano bench. Dinky felt a bit encouraged now that Starfall had joined her, she knew there was no turning back now. "Follow my lead, I'm sure you're familiar with this song." He gave her a contagious smile and she felt even more encouraged to play.

Starfall started with the first of several piano notes.







15 Years ago...


Dinky was walking circles around in the backstage. She was too nervous to go in front of the crowd. Everyone was waiting for her, and the pianist that couldn't make it. "What am I going to do!?" She cried out for a miracle. "Maybe I'm not meant to be a violinist...Maybe this is a sign that I can't-...-That its not my destiny to be one..." Dinky looked at her violin case that held her precious instrument. She looked at the time, and she hoped that someone could shake her off her self-doubts. "I can't..." She picked up her violin case and made her way out of the concert hall.

"Dinky?" The young filly stopped in her tracks immediately and looked around to see a human with light beige skin, short brown hair that had grown during the past year and forest green eyes staring at her. "Where are you going?" He asked confused.

Dinky felt a tear of shame sliding down her cheek. as in she had failed the person she looked up to the most. "I.- I can't do it...They probably won't like my playing anyways." She looked down in despair.

Anthony picked up on this and felt empathy for the young filly. He slowly walked towards her and when he reached her, he knelt down and looked at her in the same eye level as her. "You're saying that you rather would not want to know if you are good or not to play in the Canterlot Orchestra?" Dinky slowly nodded with a sad frown, still keeping her gaze towards the ground in shame. Anthony put his hand up to her chin and lifted it up to meet her eyes with his own. "It is alright to be afraid sometimes, but you can't let your fears control your actions or decisions." He wiped off a tear that was forming around her eye. "If you walk out of here, you will never know if this is your calling in life or not... I will not force you to make any decision. As long as you are happy with the decision you make, I'm happy for you." He smiled. 

Dinky sniffled away the snot stuck in her snout and wiped away the tears with her forehooves. Suddenly, her fears and doubts were gone and replaced with hope and courage to follow her dreams. "Thank you Anthony!" She attacked the human with a hug and put her hooves as far as her little limbs could around the tall human. "Wait!" She broke the hug. "Even if I go out tonight, the pianist couldn't make it!" quickly, the same negative emotions crept back into Dinky's worried mind. But to her surprise, the human warrior made his way towards the stage without a word. Dinky quickly ran after and looked what he was doing.

All the Canterlot ponies sitting in the audience were surprised to see the princess's lover taking a seat on the piano bench. Mumbling in the audience started to stir around. Dinky didn't know how to act to this. But she quickly saw that Anthony was tilting his head, pretty much asking if she is coming or not?

Dinky took one last breath before going out. Once you step in, there is no stepping out. She slowly and nervously made her way towards the middle of the stage. She was shaking and shivering, like standing in front of a hall full of predators and she was their meal waiting to be devoured. The ponies noticed this and started muttering again which in turn led to even more fright. "Dinky!" He whispered under his breath. She turned her attention to her idol. "Don't look at them, look at me!" 

She took one last glance at the Canterlot snobs. "Okay..." She said, Her throat closing half way through. Dinky felt more confident as She felt like it was only She and Anthony in the hall.

Here we go! She thought to herself.

Anthony started with a few delicate piano notes that quickly made everyone pay attention and stop talking, Signaling that it had begun. Anthony was now finishing his small part in the play and slowly led Dinky to continue. 

The final note was struck and Dinky took over with a low tone as it was meant to be.

Link to Music




The final chord was strung and all the guest started to applaud the musical duo. They cheered and smiled and Dinky saw how a few mares wiped tears of their eyes with their napkins. She turned her gaze back to Starfall who was just happy to see her smile. "What did I tell you?" He said with a annoying and cocky grin.

"Oh shush you!" She giggled and looked back at cheering dinners.







Starfall and Dinky made their way to her house. He insisted on escorting her safely home, even tho there is absolute zero crime in Canterlot, it was a gentlecolts most sacred rule. It didn't take long before they were standing outside of her house.

"I had a great time tonight...I'm so happy that I met you when I did." He smiled shyly.

Dinky's cheeks turned crimson red. "I also had a great time today." 

For a moment, everything turned around the couple turned black and the only thing visible was them and the snow slowly falling down on them and or the ground. Starfall slowly leaned forward with his head. His heart was racing a million beats per minute and he felt like his body froze in the anticipation. Dinky also slowly leaned closer. She looked at Starfall, he was everything as he ever imagined. Kind, brave, fun and charming. Her small little heart also started to beat faster, and the moment of truth came. They both leaned closer to each other and closed their eyes for the Inevitable kiss. 

Nut before their lips connected, Starfall felt a hoof stopping him. "We can't..." She spoke with sadness in her voice. "I can't..."

For a moment, Starfall felt like his world had crumbled around him. "Is it because I'm human?" He asked the mare who was still looking down towards the ground.

She slowly looked up. Tears had already seeping out of her eyes and grief overwhelmed her. "No! Its...-" 

Like the cruel hand of fate was playing a horrible joke on the young heartbroken human.

"Princ- Prince Starfall?" A voice came behind him. Starfall turned around to see a white stallion with a brown fur spot on his body and a red scarf. Starfall was unsure who this earth pony was, but as millions of different thoughts rushed through his mind, one of his worst fears was put in reality. "What can me and my fiance do for you?" He bowed down on the cold snow.

Starfall looked back at Dinky with shock and disbelief in his eyes. His heart was shattered in a million peices, but if he would stay, he would risk ruining Dinky...Marriage...

"It was nothing, I just came to visit her since I was in the neighborhood." He lied. "I need to make my way back to the castle now... I'm sure my family wouldn't want me to catch a cold in this awful blizzard." He walked past the stallion and took one last sorrowful glance at Dinky.

Today he learned the lesson of heartbreak and the sting of love. Starfall felt like his heart was ripped out of his chest and torn apart like parchment. The same wonderful feeling that he had experienced during his brief time with Dinky, was now inverted into the same amount of grief and sorrow.







"Has he stepped out yet?"

"No." Zenith replied with his stoneform demeanor.

Vigile cursed himself. He had no idea that his daughter was getting married. As happy as he is for her, he wished that she would ended up with Starfall.

"Do not blame yourself for yesterday's tragedy Vigile. I brought someone who shares his agony, after all Misery loves company." The draconic armored dragon didn't even turn around, for he had already sensed Celestia, long before she even spoked. However he did turn around to see someone he did not expect.

"Corporal? What are you doing here?" Vigile asked the armored biped that stood at attention. "At easy, soldier, tell me why you are here?"

"I was requested to talk to the prince by orders of the princess." The armored biped answered as he changed to his regular stance.

Vigile smiled and tilted for him to continue. The biped made his way to the door but his claw was almost cut off by the sword that came from colonel that was guarding it. "He order me to not allow anypony." Zenith's loyalty to the prince was annoying sometimes but still admirable. 

This is the part where Vigile would give the arrogant guards a good yell out, but loyalty of service was Zenith's specialty. Even if he would give him a yell out, he was ordered by Starfall to not allow anyone in at any cost. "Look, Zenith, I understand your loyalty to Starfall is as strong as my loyalty was and still is to Commander Crimson, but He can shake Prince Starfall out of his depression. I know you were ordered to stand guard, but if you really care about your Crystal King, then you will allow him through." He pointed with his hoof at the armored biped.

Zenith was torn apart to see his beloved Crystal King suffer like this, but he would never betray his King. But if it meant that Starfall would feel better at the cost of his badge, then he would be willing to make that sacrifice. He sighed before speaking. "Very well, I will allow you past." He closed his eyes, stepped to the side and put his sword back in his sheath. He closed his eyes as he disobeyed the order given to him a day ago. He hadn't left that spot in more than thirty hours and you could see his hoof prints embedded on the ground.

The biped slowly put his claw on the door handle this time, incase Zenith would change his mind. But he kept his word and did not react. But he just didn't barge in, he knocked two times before entering without a answer.







Starfall was sitting on his fake leather skin black sofa and was looking into the ever burning fireplace. "I have power,money and I am desired by thousands of young mares...I am a stallion that has everything, yet nothing..." He said to himself in self pity. "I have spent my childhood with nothing but studying and trying to appease my mother, FOR WHAT!?" He snapped in anger.

He pulled out another cork from a newly opened bottle of wine that was 600 years old and he was going through them in less than 600 seconds. "I have only lived 13 years of my life and I've got a unlimited more left...Maybe I could..-" Before he could finish his dark thoughts. He heard a voice that resembled a lot like someone he hadn't seen in a long time.

The door opened and he felt the presence of a good friend. "Well its been a long six months, where have you been during that time?" He asked rhetorically.

"You know I was sent to the gryphon empire to help build Equestrian relations. The gryphons are still-.." He stopped mid sentence before revealing a horrible secret.

Starfall scowled. "To tartarus with Gryffindar, They are currently painting me as a threat to the world that needs to be executed and demanding my mother to hand me over as a prisoner. I couldn't care less if some plague would strike that miserable city!" He shouted out taking the biped by surprise. "Bad choice of words for leaving your only buddy in this damned castle without a word... I had to find out through Vigile about your whereabouts. I thought we were friends Spike!" 

"We are! And I came here because you needed me... A true friend will help a friend in need... Thats why I volunteered to try to build up Equestria's relationship with the gryphons so they would stop pleading for your death... But I heard something else happened...Something involving a mare... Thats why I came here tonight, because you needed a friend to pull your early life crises."

Starfall felt both guilt and anger flowing through his body. He really wanted to throw Spike out of the window and see if his dragon arms could be substituted for wings. But he also wanted to apologize for his previous outburst. "I...I met someone that I thought could finally be the "one".

Spike smiled and gave a nostalgic sigh. "I know how you feel." He said as he took a couple of steps closer. 

Starfall perked up slightly at this. "Oh please spare me one of the, 'you're young and have your whole life to find the one' speech. Mother already told me that one, Ironically she waited four thousand years on hers..." suddenly he felt more guilty than angry...His guilt was replaced with despair and doubt. "And look how it turned out for her...She had a disgrace of a son and her husband...My father...Died, before he could see his son." Starfall sunk back in the comfy sofa and gazed back at the fire.

"I know how it feels to have your heart torn out of your chest...I heard that your aunt Rarity is pregnant..."

Starfall's interest was peaked, he turned around and looked at the medium sized dragon in shock. "What does she have to do with anything?" He said, guessing the answer in his head already.

Spike sighed. "Your father had the same conversation with me fiveteen years ago...You see... I was in love with Rarity." Starfall's eyes widened at this newfound information. "I had a crush on her since I was a hatchling and always wished to be nothing but her special somepony. It shattered my heart, when I had to give her up and the day I found out that she was getting married to Fancy Pants."

Starfall just stared in disbelief, he never knew how his good friend felt for his aunt. "But...You're a dragon, you literally become as big as this castle in a couple of decades..." Starfall asked, not knowing if their relationship would ever work.

Spike nodded. "Thats why I had to give her up...Think about it Starfall, you and I are oblivious to time, I will stop aging at a certain point, and you will soon also stop aging, its only a matter of time, when you've reached your peak. And while you stay young and beautiful, those around you will grow old...And die. This was the hardest lesson I was ever taught."

"But why did my father start a relationship with Luna if this was the case?"

"There are only a few in this world that can bless themselves with immortality, your father was one of them. This made it possible for him to be with your mother. But if you would start a relationship with Vigile's daughter...-"

"-She would grow old...and wither, while....-." Starfall couldn't believe the even harsher reality to his immortality. "-While I won't age a day..."

Spike nodded. "So I had to learn to cope with this, and to spare the tragedy that would occur, if we would be together." Spike made his way back out of the room. "I will leave you alone to think about this...I'm sorry Starfall." Spike put his claw around the door handle and was just about to turn the knob.

"Hey Spike?" The dragon turned around to meet with the prince. "Its good to see you again." He gave his childhood friend a genuine smile, and just bowed to the prince, happy to be off service. He then left the room and looked towards Celestia. 

"He will be alright, but he will need time to process, what I've told him." Everyone took a relieved breath, that this chapter in Starfall's life had settled. 

"I think its best if we all call it a night." Celestia spoke. "I will have one of the chariots to drop you back in Gryffindar." Spike nodded and followed Vigile back to the Pegasi Landings. When the two guards had left the room Celestia immediately teleported herself to her nephew's room.

She stood behind the prince who had not noticed her yet. I can't believe I'm doing this.

"Starfall?" She said, quickly gaining the attention of her nephew.

"Aunty? What is it now?" He said more curious than disrespecting.

"I want you to stop moping around, put on your clothes, and bring with you a pouch of bits!"

Starfall sighed. "What. now?" He asked slightly annoyed.

Celestia smirked. Her horn began to glow. Starfall gazed in disbelief as his aunt changed shape, her wings retracting into her body, which was itself shrinking as if her head and legs were crawling back into her body. Her rainbow mane flowed into a bright pink before drooping over her face. Starfall checked the bottle he was holding, like he had gone insane. Celestia shook her hair from in front of her face, her smirk just as recognisable as it had been before. "I'll show you my tricks on how I survived four millennia without a coltfriend. We're heading out on the town!"
	
	
	
> Chapter 13 Old Friends and Older Enemies
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The light of dawn seeped throw the thick curtains. The room was in a complete mess, with the prince's cloths thrown randomly to the ground. The prince himself... Was sandwiched between two young mares. The one at the right had a light gray fur coat and a silver mane, with the cutie mark of a silver spoon. The other mare had a pink fur coat and purple and white mane, with a cutie mark of a diamond tiara.

Starfall slowly woke up as his unique body didn't need much rest. He slowly opened his eyes to feel his body completely naked and incontact with two ponies under the large covers.

He slowly opened his eyes and saw that there were two heads pressed up against his chest, two mares resting their heads with a satisfied smiles on their face as they felt his warm smooth skin. "What the fuck..." He mumbled. 

The two mares started to wake up from the prince's confused comment. "Mmh good morning" The pink one spoke with a smile as she rubbed up ever closer to her one night stand. "Wow you really knocked my world upside down last night, your highness." She said with a drowsy giggle.

Starfall's eyes widened, but before he could react to this nightmare, the other mare woke up. "Good morning you two." She said with a smile. "Last night was great." She said standing up from her lying position.

"What did we do last night? my head feels like its about to explode."

The two mares started to laugh at the comment. "I'm not surprised, the amount of cider and braeburn's you drank, would have killed a pony."

Starfall suddenly felt like someone was kicking his head. "Aow, my head, I'm sorry but I can't remember how I got home and in bed...Naked...

The two mares joking attitude went away as the prince spoke. "You mean...You dont remember nothing at all?" The pink one asked again. Starfall replied by slowly shaking his head. The pink mare gritted her teeth in frustration. "I can't belive this became another one night stand." The pink mare removed the covers and made her way towards the bathroom. "Silver, you tell him then, I'm gonna take a shower and try not to commit regicide." She didn't waste a second and quickly closed the bathroom door behind her.

Starfall felt guilty for being the cause of grief to the young mare. He turned his attention back to the silvery mare that her friend referred to as silver. "Forgive me Silver, I'm sorry for asking this, especially after being the cause of so much grief to your friend, but what happened last night?" He asked sitting up, with the covers still above his midsection.

The silver maned mare just gave a friendly smile. "Dont worry your highness, we both had a great time last night so I dont particularly mind." He was surprised from her cheery personality, he had expected her to be furious at him. "Anyhow, you came to the nightclub with a friend, she hooked up with some other stallion and left you with us. You had ben drinking endlessly and crying about some mare that broke your heart." That last sentence made Starfall's pride deflate like a ballon. "After a while you regained yourself and were talking about how you 'Were searching for the mare of your dreams.' I knew you were drunk but Diamond Tiara thought you were genuine." And now Guilt struck the prince again. "But she and I were going to have a girls night out, so I wanted us to have as much fun as possible, and I was...A bit curious about humans." She blushed heavily on the last sentence.

"You mean...We had intercourse?" Starfall asked nervously, hoping he just preferred to sleep naked last night. 

Silver spoon looked confused at the prince, most stallions would celebrate the fact that they had sex, but the human seemed more upset then happy.  "Yes, we had sex."

Starfall wanted to smash his head into the wall. I am just an endless disappointment to my mother. He though to himself. First I lost my virginity to two mares that I dont know, second I even have the courage to bring them home.

"You alright?" the mare asked concerned. "You dont seem so particularly happy?" 

Starfall was snapped out of his thoughts and gave silver spoon a startled look. "Forgive me, Its just that a prince isn't supposed to be sleeping around left and right...and I've lost my virginity to someone who is not my wife."

Silver Spoon was shocked by how serious the prince took his title. "Arent you making making a big deal out of nothing?" She asked.

Starfall looked at her in suprise. "What do you mean?" 

"A part of life is to just calm down and have fun, let your worries throw the window and just do something crazy for a an hour, but in your case it was all night." She joked. "If you never enjoy yourself every once in a while you can appriciate life for what it is." 

Starfall starred at one night stand, she was pretty wise for someone that would go out on a weekend and court a random pony. "Huh...I guess I never thought of it like that..." His surprised expression was replaced with a grateful smile. "Thank you, I guess I needed some sense knocked into my stubborn head." 

Silver spoon laughed. "I better go join Diamond Tiara on her shower and tell her not to do it herself." She joked. "We'll finish showering and then make our way home." She jumped off the bed and was just about to open the door that headed towards the bathroom.

"Wait!"

Silver spoon turned around and gazed at the prince. "Yes?" She asked curiously.

"Um...Can we one day do this again?" He nervously asked.

Silver spoon sighed. "Alright, but no love or emotions, just sex and nothing else." 







Two year had gone by, and the prince was living a relativly balanced life, helping his mother with politics, updating a few laws or removing them, studying magic at a masters level and when his hormons call, his one night stand visits and leaves before he can even wake up, but during this time, Starfall has felt...Lonely... He does have his family and servants to socialize with, but other than his familiar Frosthowl, Starfall never had any pony friends... He never had interacted with another colt or stallion that had nothing to do with the castle. And he had long gone given up the idea of ever finding a bride.

"Are you nervus?"

"Nervous? Now why would I be nervous of being introduced into the UN council."

Luna looked at her son with pride in her eyes. "Your old enough to be in the UN council now, you will sit along side me as the worlds most important concerns are addressed. And your father did create it to make sure that Equestria, griffyndar, saddle arabia, the hive mind and dragon kingdom are united as one. I dont know, I would feel a bit nervous if I were in your situation.

"I can say that I feel a bit anxious to meet the world leaders...Tho I am slightly curious to meet the dragon queen. I've heard that she takes the form of a female human...I can say that I wouldn't turn down the opportunity to see her." He smiled.

Luna just nodded. She understands that her sons desire to witness how a female human looks would be something that interested him, even if it is an illusion.

"Your highnesses!" Vigile snapped at attention when he quickly approached the royal family. "Our guests have arrived, Shall I send them in?"

Both mother and son nodded in unisons and the Captain saluted as he flew off. "It will be good to see Skyla again...I haven't seen her in a good while." Luna put her wing around her son.

"Dont worry my little moonshine, she hasn't forgotten about you." Luna wanted to nuzzle her son... But as she leaned her head, she remember that he was now taller then her, Starfall had been growing alot during these past years and his size is almost that of his father, just slightly shorter. "Lets go meet our guests, Tia is waiting for us by the courtyard."







The royal family made their way to the blossomed courtyard, where several honor guards were waiting and Vigile fully armored in a golden plating that had the helmet of a dragon head. Zenith was also there, assigned to be one of the honor guards to see to this meeting. Frosthowl however was forbidden to attend anywhere near, only royalty or leaders of a nation were allowed at this meeting.

The night sky was silent, with no stars, Canterlot was silent and most pegasai were sitting in the clouds to get a glimpse of the world leaders and the other unicorns and earth ponies were looking over the ledge also hoping to get a glimpse of the world leaders coming on their own wings or charitos.

Minutes passed and the first arrivals were of course none other than the Crystal queen, Skyla. A chariot made off ...What else, Crystal, was flown down from the sky, reflecting the beautiful moon light

"Skyla! Its great to see you again!" Starfall didn't waste a second to give his childhood friend a bear hug that lifted her from the ground.

"The maids spend 2 hours on my mane, but NO! Its fine, go ahead and hug me like a ragdoll." She said sarcastically. Starfall took the hind and put her down, both of them shared a good laugh. "Its good to see you too." 

The 21 th platoon quickly mobilized around the crystal guards and queen. "They will see you to you to the Council room." He said with a smile.

"I think I will be joining her aswell." Luna spoke as she teleported beside the Crystal Queen. "Will you be alright greeting the other guests on your own?" Luna asked. She didn't lack faith in her son but was just asking out of politeness.

"I will mother, you two can go ahead." He gave the royal duo a bow and gave Zenith the order to continue along with his platoon.





A few more minutes went by and both the elder shaman of the zebra desserts and the sultan of Saddle arabia arrived at the same time, the gate opened and their tired servants had been pulling their carriage for days without end. Starfall was slightly disturbed on how coldly they were treated. 

"Welcome Sultan Nezir and Elder Shaman Vodja, to Canterlot!" The sultan stepped out of his large carriage, you could hear the sound of his...Handmaidens cry out for his company... A few of them peeked their heads out to catch a glimpse of the human prince.

"Thank you kind Prince, I am honored to be in Canterlot once mo-"

The prince and sultan could hear small chantings of an ritualistic incantations coming from the small carriage of the representatives of the Zebra clans, and after a few second, the elder Shaman reveled himself. "Thank you Prince Starfall, spirits be blessin ya.." 

The sultan seemed annoyed by the Elder Shamans primalistic behavior, The prince took slight notice to this, but let it pass. "Guards!" another platoon of honor guards surrounded the two arrivals and quickly formed a circle around them. "These guards will lead you to the Council room." 

The sultan took a glance of disgust towards the shaman before he scoffed and started to walk, and the shaman joined him as well.

As the duo left, Starfall knew that the sultan would be a nuisance. tho most of the guests tonight would most likely try to stir trouble, After all...They are politicians.




 


A good ten minutes of waiting and he finally caught sight of two flying chariots in the sky. They both landed, one slighter before the other. The first chariot was made out of some form of black husk, and the other chariot seemed to be made out of wood. The two next arrivals turned out to be Queen Chrysalis and President stonebeak.

"Its a pleasure to make your acquaintance Lady Chrysalis, We are happy you could attend this summit." Starfall proclaimed to the Changeling queen and gave her a polite bow. "We hope you enjoy your stay in our beautiful city." 

The Changeling Queen gave a amused smile as she took a good look at the adult human. "The pleasure is all mine, Prince Starfall." She flapped her tail at the prince in a very...Seductive demeanor as she walked past him.

"Wait! Don't you want your escort to the Council room?" He asked Chrysalis but she just giggled.

She paused her walking for a moment and directed her head towards Starfall. "I know my way around this castle, young Prince." She spoke with slight enjoyment in the fact that she had infiltrated Canterlot several years ago.

Starfall just nodded, after all if she feels secure enough he doesn't want to force her. He immediately turned his attention to the gryphon president who just finished talking to his guards. "President Stonebeak, Its a pleasure to make your acquaintance!" He approached the gryphon with a hand ready to shake his hoof. And the gryphon obliged and gave the prince a strong grip.

"Prince Starfall, I'm glad that you are attending this council meeting, I have some dire news regarding you that needs to be addressed!" Stonebreak spoke with a slight worry in his voice. "Shall we enter or are there any other that are left?"

Starfall needed a moment to think and adjust to the change of atmosfear. "Ehm...Only the dragon queen is left and my mother has asked me that I give her a proper welcome."

Stonebeak nodded.."Very well, we will discuss this matter in the council room." The Presidents agents and the president himself were quickly surrounded by the last platoon of guards.

"They will see to that you and your guards arrive at the council room safe and secure, Forgive me if they are a distraction but I dont want to upset my mother by disobeying her."

Stonebeak raised his talon. "I understand. Thank you for your hospitality Prince Starfall." and with those words, the president of gryffindar and his agents made their way to the council room.







"Where the blast is she?" Starfall said slightly annoyed. He had been waiting outside in the cold winter night for about an hour now, but still no sight of the dragon queen. "Maybe she isn''t co-" Just before he could finish his sentence a earthquake of sound and a powerful blew through the city, anyone hoping to get some shut eye would have been disappointed because in the night sky, the shadow of a immensely large dragon was sighted. Starfall's nocturnal vision saw her beautiful gleaming crimson scales were reflecting the moon and star lights down to the city. But the form suddenly disappeared into a cloud and the dragon seemed to be gone. 

"Where is she now?" He said to himself outlaud and gritted his teeth in frustration. 

"Right behind you." The strong feminine voice came from behind the prince.

Starfall slowly turned around and saw her... A human biped without wings that was slightly shorter them him, she had pale white skin, blood red lips and hair, similar to Starfall. Her eyes had a reptilian pupil, showing the danger that leis inside her illusion. But what took Starfalls attention the most was the fact that she was very...Lightly dressed. She had covered up her...Breasts and wore a triangle shaped underwear that had a small layer of golden and red metal. 

Starfall was a bit lost for words. This was the first time he saw a human female form...and it didn't take him long to feel the blood rush to his head and something calling underneath his pants. "I...-."

"Now now, hasn't your mother thought you that its rude to stare at a lady? Someone needs to be punished." She looked at the prince with a seductive smile,

"I...-" The prince was stunned for the moment, he didn't know how to react to this...New experience. But eventually he got a hold of himself again. "I am thrilled you could make it Dragon Queen." He gave a humble bow towards the majestic dragon.

She put her armored hand on the humans chin and raised him to stand up. "Such formalities are not necessary, just call me Keris" She kept her gaze on the young prince. "Shall we make our way to the Council room or are there any other members that you are still waiting for, if that is the case I wouldn't mind waiting with you."

Starfall felt slightly uncomfortable, but he slowly removed the hand that was still plastered to his chin. "No, you were the last one. Shall we?" He offered his hand like a gentleman. and she put her hand between his arm and started to squeeze his biceps. Starfall was completely confused from her antics but he just went along with it.







The Queen and the prince made their way through the halls of the castle. However there were some thoughts running around in Starfalls head and he was curious about the dragon queen.

"Say, Keri is a unusual name for dragon, or is it short for something?" Starfall said, beginning the small talk between the couple.

"Of course it is. My full name is Keristrasza. many mortals such as your father had problems remembering, infact your father himself suggested that nickname." 

Starfall gave the human formed queen a surprised stare. "Really? did you two know each other or were you two acquaintances?" Starfall could see how a arrogant smile was plastered on her face as she remember the two humans that roamed Equestria what felt like yesterday for her.

"I do not, but I did get to know his brother in arms before he killed my husband." Starfall stopped in his track, which lead to Keri's stop as well. "I have never seen such display of raw strength and power." Starfall was still stunned by her words, she said it like it was another afternoon for her.

"Why...- How can you speak of your husbands death so lightly, especially when he was slain by my uncle." Starfall had expected her to start spouting 'With age, comes experience' but instead he learned something new about dragon culture.

"Dragons mate with the most powerful and strongest, My husband was unmatched for two thousands years, he even managed to defend himself against the ravaging humans, before him however, I had many consorts that fought and killed each other for my favor, so this is nothing new and infact, I never liked him."

Starfall started to take back his walking pace again and the queen joined him. "But...Why did you decide to stay with him in the first place."

Keristrasza smiled. "Like I said, he was the most strongest and powerful dragon next to me, I relished the chance to see him be challenged and to have their heads ripped off by him...I was madly in love...Until I meet Alexander."

"WHAT!" Starfall shouted out in complete shock. The dragon queen gave a amused grin and flashed her reptilian eyes.

"You didn't know? I was competing for Alexanders...Affection. But like History shows that he picked your aunt instead of me...A shame, tho I did enjoy my time with your brown skinned uncle." She said with a malicious grin appearing on her face. "I hope that we can enjoy the same fun that he had." Keristrasza pressed her upper body closer to Starfall's side.

But thats where he drew the line. "Thank you Keristrasza, but I am not interested." He said with a commanding voice and withdrawing his offered arm.

He had expected an uncomfortable silence after his objection, but instead she just gave a amused laugh. "Not interested? I could smell your pheromones going vild the second I showed you my illusionary form, It is not a sin to bask in beauty...You cannot lie to me young prinsss" She hissed with a reptilian tongue coming out of mouth and slightly licking his cheek.

Starfall wanted to fight the build up of hormones in his teenage mind. But he was no match. The lavender scent coming off the queen was enough for any dragon or pony to be hypnotised in a daze of love. Her elegant voice stringing the air with pure harmonious echoes and her eyes could cage a unfortunate soul to her servitude for all eternity. And most of all the fact that she had the form of a human that Starfall didn't know why, but all his thoughts revolved around her as she kept her delicate hand wrapped around his arm. And the sensual licking didn't help the situation. "I...- I will reconsider your offer but right now United nations council is my priority, I will give you an answer before you depart." The dragon queens amused smile shined again as she successfully managed to wrap the weak minded prince around her momentary finger.

Unphased to Keristrasza, she was standing in front of two large doors that lead to the UN council room. "Lets enter, they are waiting for us." Starfall spoke and slowly opened the large door with his magic.







In a mountain far away from the capital of Equestria. The morning sun rose from its slumber below the world and made its presence known in the land. The light of dawn pierced the inside of a dark a lonely cave, just below its peak. The warm glow of the sun. caused the icy shapes to slowly thaw. Ice of that shape would take several hours to melt, but the presence of a ancient evil corrupted the glow to its fullest potential. As the forms slowly thawed out from their icy rest. the form of three biped human warriors were revealed, the melting process was mysteriously magnified as suddenly the humans were freed from their icy prisons. They fell to the ground. And as the drops of water slided down their face. The humans opened their eyes with a burning rage and hatred in their hearts. 

"-Alexander..."
> Chapter 14 Calm Before The Storm
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"General! We have to escape while we can!" The voice of Klitos ringed in Hephaestion's ear. "The battle has begun and Alexandria is slaughtering them all!" Klitos called out with terror and dread in his voice.

Heapeastion just looked in despair where the unicorn gods castle was. Off in the distance he could see his former best friend ruthlessly killing all his comrades. It grieved him to be the cause of this and to see his bloodsworn brother being the sword that cleaves several of his friends. He slowly turned around. "He will find us if we dont keep moving, we need to hide where he can't find us." Heapeastion went past Klitos and put his hand on his shoulder. "If we die now, our race will perish as well."

Klitos nodded. "After you general."







The trio of humans made their way up the mountain, hoping to find some form of shelter. If the king wouldn't kill them, the climate would. "Cleitus, We can't keep...Keep climbing this mountain...We have to find rest...Shelter...Food quickly..." The ruthless breeze of deathly cold air was taking its toll on the three soldiers. "General, I beg for some warmth...My magic is failing me.."

Hephaestion stopped his walking. "We will need to find a cave first, or else my magic will fail me aswell. Stay strong brother, we have to keep moving."

Cleitus was mumbling to himself, part of his sanity had been robbed from him. Hephaestion could  hear Cleitus's rambling. "I should have disemboweled him when he was a child, a mistake to- a mistake. Plague breed, impure royalty. DIE-DIE-DIE!"

Hephaestion was worried for his friends mental health, he had completely lost it ever since the massacre began. "Cleitus!" He shook the insane warrior out of his mental ruin and received his attention. "We will make it. If we stick together, we will survive."

Cleitus stopped his rambling and twitching and a smile appeared on his face. "General look!" He pointed towards a cave that was located just at the end of the passage. Hope quickly sparked inside all of the three soldiers. They ran towards the cave and it did hold shelter from the storm that was brewing outside. 

"We made it!" Klitos said with joy and relief. The three humans stepped inside the cave that was a medium sized typical cave with one way out, the same way they came from...

"We just need to weather this blizzard and..-"

Everyone felt a cold chill run through their spine. Hephaestion did not understand what was going on, he felt completely powerless. He tried to create a small breath of fire to heat the room up. But nothing came. "Somethings wrong with my powers!" Hephaestion caught the worried attention of his comrades.

A dark laughter echoed through the cave..."Pity. You fled to this cave to find freedom off death. But you will only find the imprisonment of life. The humans slowly turned around to see their worst nightmare...Alexander.

"So this is the end...Isn't it?" He asked trembling with fear. "This is what it has come to? killing your own brother..." Heapeastion spoke.

"You think that you will meet death today? Nay brother you will be imprisoned, with nothing but your mind to keep you company" A light blue mist started to flow around in the room. "I had fun scouring my pathetic army from the face of the earth, and now you will live with the guilt...Forever."  The mist made contact with the humans and their legs slowly started to freeze them alive...They couldn't feel the cold of the ice for some strange reason. They could slightly budge their toes but other then that, they were losing more and more mobility. "Farewell Hephaestion." Alexander turned around and made his way out of the cave and left the humans to their fate.

"General...I have failed you...Forgive me." Before Hephaestion could reply to his comrades final words, his head was encased in ice. Despite his frozen body, Hephaestion could still see his eyes moving.

"KLITOS!" Hephaestion could feel his arms slowly freezing and losing movement. He quickly turned his head towards Cleitus.

"General...It was an-" His head froze in before he could finish. 

"CLEITUS!" Hephaestion shouted out to his other comrade. But eventually, he was left to his fate. His neck slowly started to lose movement and all that was left was his head. "I WILL HAVE MY VENGENCE! DO YOU HEAR ME YOU TRAITOR! I WILL DESTROY YOU ...-" His head was encased in ice before he could finish. It was done and now, the cave that was ment to be their salvation, was their damnation.


Two thousand years later...


"-Alexander..." He said, finally finishing his sentence.






The doors swung open to the Council room, everyone's gaze caught sight of the human prince and the humanoid dragon queen. Starfall's sharp eye caught his mothers...disapproving glare. She seemed very distrusting of Keristrasza.

Keristrasza let go of her prince escort and made her way towards her spot in the round table. giving him one last small wink and one last chance to persuade him.

Starfall felt his mothers aggravated gaze blazing down on him, he quickly made his way to his spot on the round table next to his aunt.

"Alas, everyone has arrived, are there any objections to start the meeting?" The where no objections from any of the world leaders, so Celestia decided to move on. "The word will go first to the sultan of the horses of Saddle arabia. Is there anything of major or minor importance that you would like to address to the council, Sultan?" Celestia asked.

Nezir cleared his throat before speaking and had a frustrated frown on his face. "I do, and its regarding the recent invasion threat from the zebra clans." All of the council members were taken back by the acquisition. "They've moved in towards our borders the past few years and built settlements closer and closer to my country, I have a strong belief that the zebras will try something fishy, this is a clear act of violation towards the peace ward treaty!"

Everyone looked at the elder shaman. "Elder shaman Vodja, do you have anything to comment on the accusation?" Luna asked with neutral tone.

"It be Lies mon, our people be only growing in villages, not settlements, we have no interest to break our pack to da' Crystal King, and to start a war that wod' enrage da' spirits of peace."

"You are the liar! You seek to invade our country to seek refuge from the muddy rainforests you call home, well I will not stand for such a obvious attempt to steal my land's prosperity and wealth."

"Order!" Luna commanded out. "Sultan Nezir, please refrain from using insults, we are all gathered here to build up the relationship of the world nations and try to resolve issues without the need of violence. If you dont have more sufficient evidence of a invasion then we will have to side with the elder shaman."

"I am not surprised that a mare wouldn't see the obvious." Starfalls eyes changed from their original sky blue to blood red, filled with fury. He clenched his hand to a fist and it started to tremble with anger. "If I chose to retaliate without the consent of the council, what then?"

Celestia was about to speak before Starfall did it for her, he slammed his fist into the table as controlled as he could to not break it, but it still made the ground tremble. "Then you will have the armies of the world on your doorstep, and I will personally lead them to battle!" Everyone was stunned by the prince sudden outburst, but what also scared them more was that they noticed quickly the change of eye color. 

The sultan was lost for words, he didnt expect this outburst from the young prince, he had heard the legends of his father being strong as a mountain and powerful equal to both princess combined, so he dared not continue with his defiance. "Very well, I will abide by your decision." He said with a sigh and leaned his head back. Starfall's eyes, now calmed down, were turned back to their sky blue's. He glanced at the other leaders who were all staring at him, The gryphon president with shivering fear that he was trying to hide, the dragon queen with a amused smile from the display of strength.Chrysalis was whispering something to her guard next to her while keeping her gaze on the prince. Celestia, Luna and Skyla were looking at Starfall with concern with the act of aggression that he just displayed.

"What Prince Starfall says is true, in a act of violation towards our council treaty, anyone who is under an invasion or attack from another nation will have the support of the council to protect them, so you need not worry Sultan Nezir, I know that you just inherited your throne after your father, but there is no reasons to jump into conclusions. For now if there are no more objections we will move on to the next matter at hand."

Everyone switched glances and Celestia nodded. "Very well then, moving on to the concerns of the four hive minds. Queen Chrysalis is there anything you would like to mention to the council regarding any major or minor concerns?" 

"We have a slight issue regarding the southern hive, we haven't heard from them in years and they have completely cut off all communication. We are still trying to reach Queen Sapphira. other than, our hive minds have been living in a golden age we haven't seen in hundreds of years."

"Very well, we hope to hear news of this on our next gathering, is there anything else you would like to bring up?" Chrysalis responded by shaking her head. "Very well, we will continue to on to the next matter. President Stonebeak, is there anything of minor or major importance that you would like to mention to the council?"

Stonepeak leaned forward to speak. "I do, its regarding the election held next year. The democratic office is losing public approval with our alliance, one of the monarchical senators is running for office when the next election comes."

"Forgive me president, but I do not understand your concern. Isn't it normal for opposition to exist for the next election?" Luna asked.

"Well...You see, the candidate is very...Anti-Human. With his public approval, it would appear that he has a very credible chance to win the next election and from my sources on the inside, it would seem that he is painting Prince Starfall as a kill on sight target, and the worst of all is that the monarch senate might pass a vote that would remove the presidency and return to the old days of emperors or kings, its only a matter of time before we spin back into the mistakes of the past."

All the council members shared glances before they awaited Starfall's respond to this concern. "Then...Then we must show them that I mean them no harm. I will travel to Gryffindar and I will do my best to try to win the trust of your people." Starfall turned his gaze towards his aunt and mother who were smiling. They were proud of their little human.

"A terrific idea, Prince Starfall." Celestia turned her eyes to meet with the President. "Do you have any objections against this idea President Stonebeak?" 

"No, I think that it is the perfect action to take, I gladly welcome you to my country, Prince Starfall, I will see to your arrival say...Next month?" He asked the human prince who nodded to the suggestion.

"Wonderful! Moving on to the Crystal Empire, Crystal Queen, is there anything of minor or major importance that you would like to bring up?"

Crystal Queen Skyla glanced at Starfall quickly before gulping and summing up enough courage to speak, tho she was the first Crystal queen in a thousand years, she was still young and very new to the council. "Well...There has been a few strange occurrences."

"What kind of strange occurrences?" Starfall asked his childhood friend.

"Last week, two Crystal ponies lost their glittering magical coats...My mother has tried to find out whats wrong with them and I've asked Princess Twilight Sparkle to try to help them, and it is the same reason why she couldn't attend this meeting."

Celestia's kind smile faded away as she was a bit stunned from troubles effected by the northern ponies. "Has there been anything else out of the ordinary?"

Skyla thought for a second before answering. "Now that you mention it, the snow has been impeaching on the empire...Its odd because the snow would melt if it got  anywhere near the Crystal empire...But until aunty-... I mean Princess Twilight finds anything else, I am unsure what to make of this."

Celestia nodded. "Very well." She turned her gaze towards the other Council members. "And since Warlord Zoul is busy with his nation's scorpids infestation, he is busy battling the hordes, which means that we will discuss the world economy."






"Cliutos, I worry for our General, he hasn't spoken a single word since our release...I fear he is no longer the general we know." The Hooded human did not reply to his friends concern. This aggravated Klitos. "He hasn't spoken to us in two thousand years and we are following him without a direction." The hooded warrior remained silent. "GODS MIGHT WILL ANYONE SAY ANYTHING!"

To his suprise and delight, The general that emerged behind him, spoke. "There is only one thing to do, Alexander is dead, its been two thousand years and yet we are still alive."

Klitos was a bit terrified by Hephaestion's calm answer, but his anger got the better of him again. "For what! There are none of our kind left, What else is there to live for! General I fear its better if we-"

A sudden fist collided with the Lieutenant's face, sending him a several feet back. "Silence! Now that Alexander is dead, we may ravage this world for its power once again, and this time its not only personal, but I will enjoy making the sun witch suffer for turning our king against us! We need to get moving, we need to start Feeding again." 

The hooded warrior smiled under his cover showing off his teeth with a grim smile, knowing that his dark fantasies will soon be a reality.







Several hours had gone by since the start of the meeting, Starfall was mostly bored out of his mind...He had not expected the talk of politics to be as exhausting, but he was dedicated to his throne and people, he would endure for their sake. But eventually the Council meeting came to an end and all the leaders made their way together back to their carriages and chariots.

"We will expect your arrival next month Prince Starfall, we will make sure that you feel as home when you visit Gryffindar, we will need a lot of preparations and security checks for your safety and comfort."

Starfall gave the gryphon a friendly smile. "Thank you President Stonebeak, I wish you luck in your campaign!" Starfall extended his hand to the gryphon who quickly grabbed it and gave it a proper shake. The Prince watched as the president of Gryffindar flew off in the distance.

A glorious voice came behind Starfall as he was taking in the sight of the late night sight. He had sat in the meeting for several hours and like anyone, was glad that he could get some fresh air. "I never thought he would leave!" Said a tired feminine voice. Starfall turned around and saw that it was the dragon queen who had spat out the comment.

"Keristrasza, what is it?" He asked rhetorically, he already knew why she approached him. But as he finished the sentence, he once again felt trapped in her gaze, her crimson red reptilian eyes enchanted Starfall to be taken aback by their...mysterious beauty.

The dragon queen noticed his change of heart and crept a malevolent smile. "You're so tense, why dont you allow me to relieve your pain." She stepped closer, making the blushing break the staring contest. As Starfall ignored Keristrasza human female body, he tried to resist the urge to throw her into his bed chambers. But he quickly felt a delicate hand touching his upper body and he could feel her leaning closer, forcibly making Starfall to look into her eyes again. She was stronger then she seemed, but after all she was the dragon queen in humanoid form. But she was still in humanoid form and being nighttime Starfall managed to keep her from forcible making him look into her eyes. However, he inevitably gave in. He once again was trapped in her eyes.

"Do not try to resist me, you know you want this." Her smile grew. As Starfall leaned closer and closer until he barely felt her lips on his.

"-Prince Starfall!" Vigile interrupted, which shattered the dragon queens seduction and returning him to reality. "I'm off for the night and I was wondering if you would care to share a drink, you're a big lad, you can have a drink with me now." Starfall took this chance to bail out on the dragon queen without being rude or enraging her. 

"You know what, I'll gladly join you for a drink." He smiled as he quickly turned around to give the dragon queen a adequate good bye. "I thank you for attending this meeting, Dragon Queen, I look forward to seeing you for the next. His obligation was done and he abandoned the lightly clothed woman. 

Keristrasza was not frustrated or saddened. She knew that the prince would eventually. After All, at the end of the day, they are both Immortal and means one day he will feel lonely enough to accept her offer. "But if he only knew how soon it will be." She smiled as she prepared a spell to take her outside of the city. "I look forward to your visit, see you in four days..." And with those words whom she spoke to herself, she left.







Two mugs slided down the broad table and found their place by the hoof and hand of the two friends. "Thank you for getting me out of that situation Vigile, I appriciate you still keeping an eye on me after all these years." He said with a cheeky smile as took a sip of the alcoholic beverage. "And this is just what I needed after the meeting. Lightbringer's mercy, I instantly regret being a part of the council." 

Vigile laughed out loud at the young prince complainment. "Your father thought the same thing. He created the UN council but since he let Princess Cadence rule over the crystal empire, he got a free pass and didn't have to attend those meetings. You two are so different, but so alike." Vigile gazed down his mug and stared at his reflection on the 'scotch' as his dead friend called it. He quickly turned his attention back on Starfall again. "By the way, I noticed you were introduced to Keristrasza." Starfall peeked his ear to this and looked at his friend with a small hint of curiosity. "Guess she still does her usual seduction on humans...That crazy dragon will never change."

"Does she always do this?"

Vigile snorted. "Everytime, she also once started the mother of all catfights between her and Luna when she tried to seduce your father. So when I saw you and her almost kissing, I figured I would break it up before your mother destroys half the mountain again in another fight with that Dragon."

Starfall chuckled a bit and raised his mugs. "Once again, thank you for getting me out of trouble. you always come through for me." 

Vigile also joined in the prince's laugh and raised his mig. "Bros before hoes." Starfall looked completely confused to what that sentence meant. "It means, friendship is stronger than the need for mares or women...Your dad also taught me that." He said bluntly. 

"Bros before hoes huh...I like it." He smiled as their mugs collided. They both were about to consume their drinks before the doors of the barracks bar swung open with a loud crash. 

The pony that has open the door was Zenith, and he looked....Traumatized... "CAPTAIN!" He shouted out in terror as he was gasping for air. 

"Calm down soldier, tell me whats wrong." He stood up from his seating position.

"Its..-..Its..-The princesses- They are both requiring your immediate attention! Code: Black!" Vigil's face was hit with shock and fear...As Code Black meant only one thing...Humans
	
	
> Chapter 15 Unleashed
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The castle was on full alert and all the guards were relocated and repositioned back at the barracks; several off duty guards were gathering at the sealed courtyard. Captain Vigile was frantically shouting out orders to any guard he came upon and told the non-guard staff to evacuate the area. The guards massed up in a 50x50 formation. They were all heavily armed with spears and swords.

"WE NEED MORE BOWPONIES!" Vigile ordered. "If we can't defeat them by force, we must pray that our arrows are fast enough to kill them. Anyone who dares to hesitate to kill the humans will be executed on the spot!" He said with a loud commanding voice. 

All Starfall could do was watch as the mares and stallions prepared to march towards conflict.






Vigile didn't waste a second, flapping his wings and flying out at a speed that Rainbow Dash would be envious of. Starfall, still confused to what was going, was staring at the out of breath crystal pony pegasus. "Zenith, what is the meaning of this? What is code black?"

"Human threat warning." He answered immediately. "There has been not one, but three humans sighted! And from the looks of it, it’s dire."

Starfall was lost for words. He didn't know how to react, a large part of him wanted to jump up in joy and kiss the heavens, but another large part of him was worried if the humans that had been spotted were friendly. "How did we come across this information?" He asked.

"Apparently, a local pegasus saw them in the Everlife Forest. That is all I know, if you wish to know more you are going to have to see it for yourself, my lord" He bowed down. Despite fearing for his life, he wouldn't show any disrespect when talking to his King

Starfall pondered for a moment before he nodded. "Very well." The prince focused his magic and mind into where he wanted to appear in the castle. He rarely teleported and even when he did, teleportation was never his strong side. But he was powerful enough to teleport to the throne room, and in a silent black shroud, he was gone...







Starfall reappeared, but something unexpected happened, Vigile in a blink of an eye, charged towards the prince at an impossible speed with his blade at the prince neck, ready to kill him. But before he struck the fatal blow, Vigile realised it was the prince. He stared silently the boy for a few seconds, mouth gaping, before quickly withdrawing his sword and bowing down in his armour, trembling in fear. 

But not of the royal he had just tried to kill.  

The other princesses gazed numbly at the Captain. Starfall grimaced and snapped his head towards Luna. "Mother, what is this I hear about humans walking around in the Everlife Forest?" He asked, starting towards her. But Starfall's question was answered by noticing a shivering pegasus who looked traumatized.

"We do not know, Starfall. All this pegasus shouted was that there were humans in the forest." Luna said, sharply. Obviously with news like this. She wanted to know about these humans that were walking around the forest. In most situations they would dispatch a pegasus squad to gather information, but if they were caught and killed the humans would be flying their way to Canterlot, not walking. "I have had enough of this silence, Speak NOW!" Luna shouted out with the Royal Canterlot Voice.

The loud and booming of the voice, snapped the pegasus back to reality. He immediately jumped up and took hold of the chandelier like Fluttershy would when startled. Luna used her magic to teleport back the poor pegasus on the ground. Starfall was still lost for words how harsh everyone was acting, oblivious to the severity of the situation. 

However, her methods worked and the old pegasus that had a gray fur coat and sky blue mane started to take slow and calm breaths. Eventually speaking. "Forgive me your Highness!" He knelt down, still a bit frightened from the lunar mare's outburst.

Starfall walked up to the old stallion and offer his hand. "No apologies are needed, Forgive us for our rude conduct!" The old stallion accepted the offered hand and rose up with the help of the Prince. "I hope you can understand that my mother is worried about this news." Starfall's kindness shined through and made the pegasus smile. "Take all the time you need to speak." 

The gray stallion raised his hoof. "Thats not necessary. I'll tell you what I saw now."

"Before you start, would you mind telling me your name?"

"My name is-"





"General! I have scouted the area and I've found a village and a dragon cave at the other side of the forest!"

Hephaestion responded with a nod, as he sat on the log of a burned recently cut tree. He was a tank of a man, his broad shoulders and well-built arms protruding from his golden chestplate; armour forged in the shape of a lion in pain, an image that might as well have been forged in the very pits of hell itself. He turned his stone-like face to his underling, staring down at him with green snake eyes and a shark-like grin. a string of hair hung loosely over the right side of his face. His voice seemed to slither out of his mouth, the words weakly yet continuously dripping out of his mouth. 

"Well done. We will start by giving the cave a visit and then we will move on to the village once we've gathered our strength. The dragon will take a lot of our power to slay. But the good news is that the dragon will make quite the feast." Cleitus shared a mad laugh with his general, as he slouched forward, not daring to hold his head any higher than his superior’s 

In contrast to the strong intimidating figure of Hephaestion, Cleitus looked like a fish out of water, but never the less still had the shark like features of a veteran warrior: The shaven head. The scar across one of his eyes. His well toned arms and legs. However, as he cowered before his general, he felt his general’s cold, warm eyes wade over his slightly crooked nose. His long feet. His silver armour with the image of Tiger pouncing. The bead of sweat that ran gingerly down his left cheek. His general thankfully turned to where he was once staring, which seemed to be a patch of air.

"I've missed the taste of dragon meat.” said Hephaestion, gleaming. “I'm going to make sure to rip off its legs before we kill it!" Cleitus gave a dark chuckle. He turned to Klitos, a weedy shadow of a man who wore a dark hooded robe over himself. He sat patiently in the corner, waiting for the wind to blow. 

"Cheer up Klitos! I promise I'll let you have most of the leg!" Puffed Cleitus.

The human didn’t visibly react to the mocking gesture and gave a low growl. He spoke huskly, as if something was caught in his throat: "I don’t care for food you fool! I am wondering what's changed...Its been two thousand years and I wonder what’s happened to our world...To this world. What's changed and what's the same. And what of the sun and moon goddesses?" Cleitus wanted to strike his friend with a massive warhammer. But there weren't many humans left in the world, so any ally destroyed was less chance of survival.

"You dare to speak to me in that way maggot! I will have your hide carved into-"

"ENOUGH!" Hephaestion roared out. "I've waited so long for our freedom and revenge and I will not let your petty squabble be my demise! We march towards the dragon in the next hour. We need to gather our magical power; if we want to survive we have to stick together. We are brothers bound by sword and sealed with blood now and forever." 

The two warriors glanced at each other with regret dripping in their faces. "Brother...Forgive me for my spiteful words, I am troubled with being encased in ice for two millennia." Cleitus eased his grip on his weapon and lowered it.

"I accept your apology, and I suggest that we move on, the sooner we kill that dragon, the safer we will be."

After several hours of walking in the forest. The three humans finally arrived at the cave. Cleitus grabbed his large warhammer and gripped it tightly. Klitos removed his twin swords from their sheaths as they glowed with indigo fire. Hephaestion prepared his large shield, proudly donning it on his left arm. The shield's face was shaped as the head of a dragon with Hephaestion's magic fulling it to endlessly breath fire. The three humans took their stances and stood outside of the cave like guardian statues.

"Dragon of this forest, hear me! me and my brothers challenge you to a battle to the death! Come forth coward and answer our cry!"  Hephaestion roared out the challenge as loud as he could. A powerful gust of smoke was shot out of the cave. In any other scenario, ponies, gryphons and minotaurs would run for their lives, but the three warriors stood their ground. Fearless in their pursuit for the dragons power and death. The fury of hell and tartarous itself was burning inside of them and not even a dragon's roar could make them move a single inch to retreat.

A powerful tremor could be felt as the dragon slowly made its way out of the cave. But as it revealed itself. The dragon was a lot bigger than they had anticipated. yet this did not sway their resolve.

"Insignificant mortals! You dare challenge me!" As the dragon was building up its fiery breath. Its sharp reptilian eyes saw creatures it hadn't seen in mellania. "What sorcery is this! Humans!? Your kind were eradicated from the face of the earth!" In a ironic twist of fate, 50 foot dragon started to hesitate fighting the humans. 

"I assure you, we are quite alive...- NOW KLITOS!" The swift human appeared out of nowhere and with a single slice of his blades, the dragon's left leg was detached from its body. His swords were in a inferno of hellish purple fire. The dragon Roared out in pain that echoed through the forest, undoubtedly heard by the village heard from beyond the forest.

The dragons eyes burned with rage and quickly inhaled to consume his enemies in flame. The dragon quickly inhaled and breathed out fire that consumed everything in its surrounding. The dragon crept a painful smile as he was still reeling from his pain of losing his leg, but his magic would allow him to grow a new one. But his victory was short lived, as the smoke lifted, the human standing in front of him was still standing, even tho he never raised his shield to protect himself. 

"You overgrown lizards never learn do you? Your dragon's breath is useless!"

The dragon scoffed and raised its claws as it was prepared to crush the lowly human standing in front of him. However this time the, the human raised his shield to protect himself from the strike and as the large claws were swung downwards. The claws collided with the shield, but miraculously the human wasn't even affected by the powerful attack. The dragon stared at the human who was bristling with confidence. "You are out of time!" He shouted out with a evil grin.

The dragon was confused. But his confusion was quickly answered as he felt a slight tingling up his scaly spine. A maniacal laughter could be heard...on top of it. 

It was Cleitus...Running up his long spine and towards his skull for a powerful blow that would instantly kill the dragon. However he wouldn't just lie down and wait for it to happen. The dragon started to shake its long neck and Cleitus started to go a bit off balance, but it did not stop him. he kept on going and as he came closer and closer. "MORTAL FILTH! You dare stain my back with your presence. I shall send you to the heavens above before I send you to tartarous below!" The dragon flapped its mighty wings and set forth towards the sky. In just a mere few seconds. The dragon was above the clouds. It could still feel the human, gripping one of his spines. When he reached the peaks above the sky, and the air started to get thinner. The dragon descended back on the ground. Its wound was starting to heal and Cleitus lost his grip and started to fall with the dragon. The mighty wyrm gave a toothy grin as he could see his prey about to meet its end. But as the dragon was going to slow its fall with its wings, a sudden stinging pain could be felt and nothing happened...The dragon quickly looked to his wings and saw that there was large holes cut open that had recently started to expand from the pressure of air...There was nothing left now...The fall wouldn't kill him but it would prove to be just powerful enough to leave him at the mercy of the humans down below...






Everyone was dead silent...Starfall didn't know how to react at the story. A dragon being slain by three humans just barely the size of its claws... One with swords, sharp enough to cut through dragon bones... One with a unbreakable shield and enough strength to withstand the direct attack of a dragon, and a mighty barbarian with enough courage to fall thousands of feet in the air without thinking twice about it and a hammer large enough to crack a dragon's head open lack a walnut.

Vigile was in deep thought as he was pondering over what kind of weapons the humans were wielding. "Your highness, it sounds like the human with two swords was using obsidian dragon scale swords and the other two weapons were most likely black limb metal..." He said turning towards Celestia.

Luna and Celestia were troubled by this...This meant that their weapons were powered by their emotions. And the combination of them being survivors of genocidal campaign wouldn't make the situation any better. "I know of them..." Celestia spoke with a cold voice. Her usual bright and positive tone was completely gone and unlikely to return anytime soon. "Hephaestion...Klitos...Cleitus. The general and lieutenants of Alexander's army before they turned on him. They’re pathetic creatures, knowing only how to cause pain and suffering, how to enjoy hurting others, abusing others. Creatures that’ll never know love..." she sighed. “It’s almost pitiable.”

Another silence snuck up in the room. Luna however was the first to break it. "Captain! I want you to take this pegasus for further questioning." This command snapped Starfall out of his trance. Two of the guards grabbed the poor pegasus as he was dragged out of throne room to the barracks and then the jail cells. 

"Please, Your highness, I need to get back home to my family!" He cried out, fearing for what might come next. 

"I am sorry but we need to ask you further questions regarding your claims. You shouldn't worry about getting him at this time." The guards escorted the old pegasus out of the throne room, leaving only the royals and guards.

"Mother! How can you bother that poor old stallion with further questions? He has been through enough, shouldn't we let him go home to his family?" Starfall protested out as he raised his head to his full length in act of defiance.

"I'm sorry Starfall, but we need to know everything about the humans in the forest, everything down to their boots." Starfall was taken back by how cold his mother was when a threat was present.

"The stallion already told you everything he saw and heard and yet you treat him like he was some enemy of the nation. And another thing, why were you so forceful with him? We are not above anyone and we will speak to them with respect."

Luna gritted her teeth at her son's insolence. "And you are one to speak? You cannot begin to understand the danger Equestria is in if we allow this threat to run rampant. If that pegasus was telling the truth, they are skilled and powerful warriors that could easily slay a dragon, what do you think they will do to Ponyville once they reach it?"

Luna's words sunk heavily Starfall as he was terrified what those humans were capable of if they reached Ponyville or any other village. However Starfall wouldn't change his mind. "Despite our fears, we cannot treat our precious ponies like this. Even when threatened, we can never compromise who we are!" 

Vigile saw how this disagreement was spiraling into arguing. "My apologies your highnesses but I need to prepare the royal army for the coming events." Vigile's interference caught both of the royal's attention as they were meeting eachother head on with different points of views. 

Luna had no attention to stay and argue with her son while three very dangerous humans were running around in the Everlife forest. "I shall join you after I've dusted off my armor.  And You young man,” She sighed and shook her head “We will have this discussion later." With those words Captain Vigile and Luna left the throne room. Leaving a very frustrated Starfall to ponder over the recent events.






Starfall was relentlessly pummeling the punching bag in the exercising court of the castle. Frosthowl was witnessing his masters distress and was carefully keeping his distance. Not that he was afraid, but he wanted to give him his space. He could easily sense his masters anger, being a wolf he was in tune with his inner beast and ferocity. 

Starfall however was lost in his thoughts as he gave one powerful blow after another, luckily the day had arrived which gave the prince a chance to exercise his day light strength, were it night, he could easily had torn the bag in half. He gave it one final powerful blow and started to catch his breath again. at this, Frosthowl stepped forward and took his fighting stance.

"Not yet, I need to catch my brea-" He took a large sip of water out of his bottle as he was dying for a refreshment. "-my breath!" He gave it a few more seconds before he also took his stance towards his friend.

Starfall slowly stepped to the side and circled his opponent. Frosthowl quickly followed and went with the flow. Frosthowl started out with growling at his opponent, but that did not make the brash prince back down. A few officers usually came to the court to also keep themselves in shape and to watch a sparring match between the human and wolf.

"Are we gonna dance all day or are we going to fight?" Starfall asked with a teasing smile. Frosthowl reacted by quickly trying to knock down the human with a strike of his left paw, but Starfall quickly rolled to the side and dodged the painful blow. But he wasn't given a chance to pick himself up and Frosthowl launched himself ready for the killing strike, but again, Starfall had predicted his friends next attack so he laid perfectly flat on the ground, letting him bypass the wolf above him. Frosthowl had not expected this and instead of using his master as a landing pad, he lost his momentum, giving Starfall the chance to jump back on his feet and quickly pursuing the large white wolf. 

Vigile silently watched the blood brothers fight, the great warriors playfully sparring, only using a mere fraction of their strength and skill yet still fighting at a military level. Starfall jumped up on Frosthowl's back with a slight help of his wings, and Vigile marvelled at what an asset he they would both be in the military. Prince Starfall, The wolfrider. What a symbol he could be, for strength, for kindness, for justice. Starfall grabbed on to Frosthowl’s neck and locked the hold. "POINT!" He yelled out. Frosthowl immediately stopped in his tracks, allowing Starfall to dismount and put his feet back on the ground. Vigile sighed.

He wasn’t here for Starfall.

"Impressive, what does that make? 2-10 to Frosthowl?" The familiar voice of Vigile caught Starfall's attention.

"Vigile? Aren't you supposed to be busy getting the guards ready?"

"We are still waiting for any able bodied soldiers, most of the pegasi and unicorns are useless against humans."

Starfall raised his right eyebrow at the response. "Dont you think it might be an exaggeration to bring along an entire army to take down three humans? Sure they may be experienced fighters but it still seems farfetched."

Vigile gave a low chuckle. "When your dad first arrived at ponyville, squad 09 were completely humiliated, and he also put the princess in a little bit of shame and most of all, he was unarmed and wasn't giving his all. But now we are facing up against three very experienced veterans that we have no idea over just how much power they consumed before their disappearance."

"You talk like you know these humans." 

Vigile shook his head. "I dont, but the princess briefed me quickly on who they were. You could say it was Alexanders BFF and two lieutenants. I would be as stupid as Shining Armor if I wouldn't have any insurance of our victory."

Vigile's harsh tone put the young prince in a awkward moment. "Well then I'll guess I'll stay here and...Wait for you to come back?" He slowly turned his back on the Captain. Before he could leave, he was stopped by Vigile.

"Wait Starfall!" Starfall turned back around to face the armored pegasus. "The reason I came down here was...-" Vigile took a deep breath before he continued. "I could really use Frosthowl's help."

Starfall was stunned by the request. "WHAT!?" He yelled out with a blank look on his face.

Vigile took another deep breath. "Look, Starfall, I need all the help I can get, and me and my men would feel better if we had a 6 foot wolf covering our flanks. I promise you that he will return to you...Even if I have to give my life for it to happen."

Starfall was didn't speak. He turned his head to look at Frosthowl who was also lost for words...Or barks. Finally he spoke. "I cannot make such a decision, if he is sent out to battle, then it will be his decision, not mine."

Vigile stepped closer to the noble wolf. "Well Frosthowl? What'll be?"

Frosthowl looked at the humble Captain. Friend of his masters father, Champion of Equestria and the closest thing his master ever came to having a father where his own was gone, even Frosthowl liked the Captain as he was very accepting of him ever since he could remember. 

His decision had been made, He inhaled a large portion of air before sticking out his chest and giving a howl loud enough to wake up all the morning sleepers of Canterlot. Vigile and Starfall didn't need to ask to know that was a resound battle howl. "Thank you Frosthowl, Now lets get you geared up, I had this incase of an....Emergency." As the pair were about to leave. Frosthowl took one last glimpse at his master. Before being given a reassured nod by Starfall.

"Don't worry Frost, you'll be safe with him" He whispered to himself. Starfall proceeded to grab his training equipment and make his way back to his room.





Dressed in casual attire and his hair still a bit wet from the shower. Starfall decided to start with the paperwork for the day, despite him not sleeping through the night thanks to the meeting, with his Immortal clock soon to stop ticking, sleep will be a thing of the past...same with food. But his walk was interrupted as he heard a large barking of orders being thrown around in the courtyard.

"MARCH FORWARD!" Vigile ordered. He was leading a impressive large army around 500 stallions and mares. It had taken them a 10 hours to get armored and briefed on the threat. Many of them were afraid of never returning, after all, they knew about the stories of humans being the harbingers of war and with their Captain being on full alert did not help their confidence. Frosthowl was also there, clad in bright silver armor, protecting his exposed body.

A large portal opened in front of the closed gate and the soldiers started marching towards it with Vigile leading the march and Frosthowl at his side. Starfall however, was watching everything transpire from his room. "Good luck Vigile...I hope you return safely."



Two years ago...


Starfall had just left his room after taking a shower after what had transpired last night. He opened the door to find Vigile standing outside...Waiting for him. "Vigile?"  Starfall asked a bit confused and afraid.

Vigile gave a salute. "I was hoping you and I could have a talk?" He asked in a neutral tone. which even frightened Starfall even more. He had read about romance novels where the father of the mare had disapproved of the lovers relationship and threatened or even caused harm on the lead male. 

"Y...Yes of course!" He snapped up and stepped to the side allowing the aged pegasus in to his room. "So....What did you wish to talk about?"

Vigile did not appear to be frustrated or mad...Rather disappointed... "I heard what transpired last night...I came to check up on you and see how you were doing?" 

Starfall widened his eyes in surprise by Vigile's lack of frustration. What was even stranger, he was sympathising with him. "Aren't you mad about me causing your daughter unnecessary grief and taking her out without your blessing?"

Vigile was shocked by Starfall's answer. "Mad!? Why would I be mad that my daughter was to date The Prince of Equestria? My dead best friends son and a nice young stallion who treats mares with respect?"

Starfall was about to reply before he realised just how stupid his reasons were. "When you say it like that, it kinda makes it sound like it was the worst thing ever that we did not get together." He gave a cheeky smile to ease the tension. 

"Well? How are you doing?" He asked again.

"Well...I can't say for sure, but I feel a little better after having a chat with a certain mare..." His eyes widened again as he mentioned the one night stand in front of the Dinky's father. "Uh! I meant that I met-"

Vigile started to laugh out laugh and gave the prince a powerful slam on his back. "Well its about time that you became a man, I guess the mare I saw sneaking out earlier was that Certain mare?"

"Oh come on! You still aren't mad?"

"What's with you being obsessed about my anger managment? And to answer your question, I am not mad because Dinky is engaged, as much as i hate to say it, you have no obligation to her whatsoever so its none of my business who you decided to ba-...Anyhow, Its too bad that you two didn't end up together, I'm sure if your dad saw you right now, he would cry his eyes out in joy of the thought of you and Dinky being together..."

Starfall smiled slightly at the answer to his question. "You sound disappointed." He said with a small chuckle.

Vigile, his hoof on Starfall's arm. "Of course I'm disappointed. I want to see you happy as well. And in my opinion I think you and Dinky would be perfect together." He stopped his sentence mid way as he didn't want to throw disinfectant on the still open wound. "But thats life, you can't always have your way. And besides, even though you are not my son, I always thought of you as my own."

Starfall woke up. With a bad feeling lingering above his head, as a horrible storm was coming. He glanced outside to see it was starting to rain..."Frosthowl?" He called out, but nopony responded or came to his call. Starfall glimpsed at the clock and saw it was 3 pm. He gave a disappointed sigh. "Less and less sleep for each passing year." mumbled to himself as he removed the cover. But as he set foot on the ground. Starfall felt an excruciating migraine burning his mind.

"WHAT IS HAPPENING TO ME!?" However, instead of an answer to his affliction, he was given a dark and murky vision.







Starfall found himself in a voidless plane, beyond time and space. 

"Hello?" Starfall cried out. But none would answer. He looked around trying to see if anyone would present themselves. 

After what felt like an eternity, the voidless plane took shape of a devastated world...The sun had been consumed and the moon had been shattered to a million pieces, scattered like his mothers stars. The ground was dead of life and water. But the worst part was the silence...

"What in the name of all that is...-" Starfall could not believe what he was seeing. He could neither hear any birds chirping or crickets giving off their noisy presence, the wind itself didn't even bother to blow as everything was standing still...But time was still moving.

Starfall surveyed his surroundings even more. What he saw next...Would never leave his mind. He walked to a pile of bones...The bones of two medium sized ponies that had their heads disconnected from their bodies...But also the bones a large...-

"FROSTHOWL!" He ran to the pile of wolf bones and fell down on his knees in disbelief. As he tried to make contact with the remains of his loyalest of servants, he simply went through it like he was non-existent. Starfall was at the verge of tears as he couldn't take more of what was happening.

But his misery would not end there. He felt a bone chilling sensation as he could see his steamy breath in the cold atmosfear. The world was alive again and Starfall saw that his hands had shrunk in size. The ground was covered in snow and Starfall was kneeling in front of a bled out Ice wolf. "Oh no...Please Lightbringer save her!" He cried into the wolf's furry stomach. But it had appeared that his prayers had been answered. For the wolf had started to move again. Starfall rose back to his previous composure and with joy he smiled...For the moment. The wolf opened its eyes with a fiery red eyes glowing it snapped and attack Starfall.

Starfall reacted by flinching away. But the pain never came and he dared to open his eyes again to see he was infront of a gravestone. 

Prince Davios Sunbright

"Forgive me for my mistakes. May you find peace in whatever afterlife that is ahead of you."
Crystal King Alexander-


"Davios Sunbright...?" Starfall thought to himself. "Sombra!?"

A bright light started to take form behind Starfall as he turned around to confront this strange light. He was wary of these constant changing of atmosfears and was bracing himself for what was coming next. The light took the shape of a impressively large stallion, with white fur and a golden burning mane, similar to his mothers and aunts.

"You called, and I have answered. It is wonderful to finally meet you, Cousin" He spoke with a adult voice and with power and strength behind it. There was no doubt in his mind that this was the son of Celestia and Alexander.

"You know of me?" Starfall asked.

The large stallion, just slightly shorter then Starfall, nodded. "I do. Our grandmother has had her eye on you since even before my birth and your father has always watched you, ever since he joined me upp here."

Starfall was humbled by his cousin's choice of words. "Why am I here? Why have you been pestering with my mind with these terrible visions?"

Davios leaned his head back in slight surprise. "I have done no such thing. For after...These are not off my doing, but your own."

"Excuse me?"

"You called me here and your visions are of your own creations...You seem to be in turmoil with yourself." Davios spoke as he put his hoof to his chin in thought.

Starfall was taken back by the weird suggestion. "What do you mean turmoil with myself?" The human prince asked.

"Like me, you were prone to never back down from a battle when presented. You are the son of a warrior as skilled as my father. We both have the curse of battle in our blood. I had my fair share of fighting back when I was alive against the minotaurs and dragons. But while your family is participating in battle, you are sleeping in your comfortable bed..."

"I am no warrior or hero as my father...I am a good duelist I admit. But I am not ready to take someones...Life." Starfall lowered his head in slight self loathing. "I dont think I can ever claim a life willingly...I feel compassion for all living life."

"You know what they say: The first, is always the hardest." The words sunk deeply in Starfall's mind as the world started to fade away once again. "Remember these words: The harder you try to hide your True self, the faster you succeed in releasing it."






"DAVIOS!" Starfall jumped up in shock as he returned back to reality. His eyes were scanning the room rapidly and he was paranoid of the next vision that never came. He slowly started to ease his breath and drop his stance. However, even if the visions were over. The crystal princes' words were still echoing inside Starfall's mind. "I need some fresh air!" He said as he stormed out of his room. He ran to the balcony.

The sight of all of Canterlot made the prince stare to all his subjects below. He saw the faces of the pure and innocent newborns. He could also see his aunt Rarity with her husband, strolling with their newborn daughter in her foal carriage. He could not make out much of the baby, but he saw them just returning from the park. He looked upon them with such envy. They didn't have the world resting on their shoulders and didn't have to worry about a nation wide crisis...Their lives were solely focused around each other. The feeling of innocence had over the years slowly been leaving Starfall as he grew up. All who looked upon him knew that this was the son of the legendary Crystal King Crimson. Always hiding in the shadow of his father. But Starfall always did wonder. Could he become a hero like his father? But heroes are only born in the time of need. When a threat against the innocent presents itself to cause dread and terror...

Starfall's mouth opened in his realisation... The guards of the castle were absolutely terrified from the humans arrival. His mother was dreading the terror she had gone off to face and Vigile... Time after time he had always been there to pick the young prince up when he fell. May it be him learning how to walk, or covering for him when he used to raid the kitchen for any meat or sweats.

"No more..." Starfall narrowed his eyes and clenched his fist. "I refuse to sit and watch as my friends and family are putting themselves in danger!" And with a simple reaction from his shoulder blades, Starfall expanded his magnificent wings. rarely had he done that, but now they were extended to their fullest 4 meters. The prince took a few steps back and gather his courage for the leap of faith. "No...MORE!" He ran towards the edge and leapt off the balcony. 

Such a sizeable flyer caught the attention of the townsfolk and they all gazed and the breath taking sight. The prince...Was flying. One of the guards pegasus guards at the gate flew up to the prince.

"My lord, it is not safe for you to-" 

Starfall stopped mid flight. With fire of determination in his eyes he gave the guard a death stare. "Sergeant, Do I look like a child!?" He asked with strong, stern voice.

The guard was caught off guard by such a question by what used to be the friendliest soul in Equestria. "I...-"

"Do I look like a child Sergeant? Answer the question!" He said again.

"No my lord!" He answered terrified.

"In that case, hand me your spear and stay out of my way..."







Hephaestion glanced over the horizon as he slowly emerged out of the forest with his companions. He saw the gathered army and what drew his attention the most, was the princesses. He also noticed that they were slightly different from before with the change of mane and ornaments. He grinned, anticipating pain and bloodshed. He spoke with his snake voice differently from earlier, the words clear and constantly shooting out of his excited grin.

"Celestia and Luna! It is fantastic to see you again, its been a nice couple thousand of years!" Hephaestion spoke with a sarcastic malice in his voice. "I see you and your ponies have built up courage from the last time we pillaged, raped and killed your kind!" Celestia and Luna remained silent and narrowed their eyes in frustration. "Forgive me, did I touch a nerve? I will make sure to cut out more after I've disemboweled your sister!"

"Leave these lands, Monster! You and your kind are not welcome here!" Luna shouted out with her royal canterlot voice.

Heaphestion laughed manically with Clitos. "Where is Alexander? Aging did not fare well with him I see?" A large beam of blazing fire was shot out of Celestia's horn and as expected, everything surrounding the humans was destroyed except them. "Now now, Celestia, you and I both know that magic doesn't work on us. Make this easier on yourself and surrender for a quick death. You've lived for far too long and its time that someone should...Replace you."

"NOT WHILE I STILL STAND!" The booming voice of Vigile caught the attention of the humans. "FIRE!" A volley of arrows on fire rained down upon the unsuspecting humans. A black thunder, struck the hundred arrows. 

"You will have to be faster than that!" Klitos replied as he returned to his general's side.

Vigile clenched his teeth in frustration. "Direct fire!" Another flurry arrows were shot direct against the humans but came to a sudden stop and turned around to face the ponies. The arrows with a fast speed were shot back towards the ponies. A large barrier protected all of the ponies except Vigile as he was standing outside of it. two arrows attached themselves on his armor but barely made through to the other side of the plate.  "DELTA SQUAD!" Vigile shouted out. The skies filled with armored pegasai charging towards the ground with their spears ready to impale the humans. 

"DOM VRO DA!" The large quaking sound of a shout could be heard as the pegasus stopped flapping their wings and their bodies fell directly towards the ground and suffered heavy injuries.

"CHARGE!" The ground quaked as the several hundreds of soldiers ran charged towards their enemy. To kill and die for Equestria.

Hephaestion sighed. "Enough of this! Clitos, disband them!"

"GOR VI OOF!" 

All the soldiers fell neck deep in the earth rendering them unable to move. "Sister, we have to help them!" Just as Celestia and Luna were about to free their subjects. They were being choked by Klitos.

"You two have caused enough trouble!" Celestia and Luna could fell how they were slowly losing air and their lungs were unable to inhale fresh air. Klitos, quick as a flash brought the two princesses in front of Hephaestion. They both saw that they were in the mercy of their worst nightmare.

"And here I thought it would be more difficult...Oh well. Say your final goodbyes to your sister, Celestia." Hephaestion smiled as he drew his burning black sword. 

Tear were forming in Luna's eyes as she realised that her final moments with her son, was a fight. Her eyes glittered as she saw him raising his sword.

"Good bye Luna, it was a pleasure while it lasted." Luna closed her eyes, awaiting her fate.

But instead of a quick death. She heard a loud howl off in the distance. "PROTECT THE QUEEN!" She recognized the voice of Frosthowl. Several packs of regular forest wolves charged towards the humans. 

"Clitous, Klitos! Regroup!" The swordsman cut down several of them, while several others met their fate in the hands of Clitous  massive war hammer. 

Frosthowl with his massive fangs ready to tear apart Hephaestion ran at a speed which the human could not counter with. Frosthowl pounced him to the ground and stomped on his meager human arm. Hephaestion screamed out in agony. Frosthowl was about to finish him off with one large bit to tear his head off. But was knocked on his side by the massive hammer. 

"On your feet, General!" Clitous picked up his comrade from the ground, still in pain from the attack. But he would have his vengeance against the wolf who had dared to strike him.

Vigile, still embedded in the ground was struggling against his restrain, but his mere pony strength would not suffice for this fight. "I have no choice but to use my armor..." With a thought, the armor started to give off a glow, resembling the sun. 

"A fine specimen of a wolf, too bad you would not have joined with me when you had the chance." Hephaestion took his stance towards the large pale wolf and swung his sword. But before it could make contact with its flesh. A metal clinging sound could be heard. It was the Vigile in his fully enveloped armor and his diamond sword. His face was replaced with the one of a dragon, his blue eyes were giving off a burning aura as they were hidden in the darkness and his wings were also protected. His wings had razor sharp talons.

Hephaestion was annoyed from the constant interruptions. "KLITOS! Show this amataur, the skills of a master swordsman." Vigile quickly disconnected his sword away from Hephaestion to deflect Klitos' sword.

Frosthowl recovered from his injury to reunite behind Vigile. "Frosthowl, You take the one with the hammer. Mister Hot shit sword is mine!"

Hephaestion gave a laugh. "The odds are against you, we were the best of the best warriors of our world. You might be fast, but Klitos is faster. That wolf might be strong, but Clitous is stronger. And I have both their strength and speed. What could you possibly counter with that?" The sky flashed as a large flying creature could be seen diving towards the ground. The winged creature created a gust of wind as it landed on the ground. sand and dust was blinding everyone temporarily. Forcing them to look away, and as their eyes recovered they saw him...







Starfall rose from his knees with his spear still impaled in the ground. "I hope I am not late to the party?" 

Vigile gave a confident smile. "What took you so long?" 

The three humans were standing in complete shock to the reveal of a new human with hair color they had never seen before. "Who are you, stranger and why are you siding with these weak ponies?"

Starfall pulled the spear of the ground. "I am Prince Starfall, Descendant of Alexander, Son of Commander Crimson Phoenix, Son of Princess Luna. I fight with these ponies to protect my nation and my family!" The three humans took their stances against the human. Hephaestion summoned his large bulwark, Klitos emerged from the shadows with his blades at his sides ready to strike and Clitous rose his hammer from the ground. " Do you have any idea what your ancestor did to us!?" He sniffled, agrilly.

Starfall did not flinch. "What happened in the past doesn't matter, but if you seek conflict, you will be quickly dispersed of!" He replied.

Clitous started to twitch in madness induced anger, Klitos' swords started to burn with a black fury that none of his comrades had seen and Heaphestions shield seemed to devour any light that was shunned upon him, like a black hole. "WE WERE IMPRISONED FOR TWO THOUSAND YEARS, DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA HOW MUCH WE'VE SUFFERED!?" 

Still, Starfall did not back down. "For good reasons!" He spoke as he surveyed the field full with immobilized ponies and heavily injured pegasai. "Its time for you to return to your prisons!" 

"NEVER!" they all spat out. A large beam of magical energy was shot directly at Starfall. Vigile was not fast enough to counter it. 

"STARFALL!" Luna cried over her son. But as the smoke cleared, The prince, remained unharmed. "What?" She couldn't believe her eyes. A magical blast like that should have torn even a ursa minor apart.

The three humans who had cast the attack were in shock, they thought if they could hit him He would have been obliterated. "What sorcery are you playing on us, demon spawn!" Hephaestion hissed.

Vigile and Starfall were lost for words until it hit him. "You've got to love mother nature...Or the Luna's mom." Everyone was looking at the prince in confusion... Luna, who let out a low chuckle. 
"His father was immune to pony magic, after all he was human. But Starfall is a hybrid of both, just like Sombra, making him immune not to Pony magic...-"

Starfall let out a amused smile. "-But human magic..."  He muttered to himself.

The three humans scowled. 

"It will not change the outcome! I WILL ANNIHILATE YOU!" Roared the humans before quickly picking out an opponent and charging towards their targets.





Clitous charged towards Frosthowl as he swung his mighty warhammer, but Frosthowl countered the blow by striking back with his enormous paw. Making both of them stagger back. The wolf quickly recovered and headbutted the human in the chest. 

"Nice one! Now its my turn!" He jumped back on his feet and started swinging around his hammer like a tornado. The hammer gave of a powerful glow and as much as Frosthowl wanted to take his chances, he could never risk his own life to upset his master. He decided to counter the spinning by running along with it. Making a blow that would have been fatal, more of a flesh wound. "Ha, you fool! Now experience the black magic held inside the hammer!" 

Frosthowl howled in pain as the wound felt like it was petrifying him. He moved slower and slower, he still had his strength. "Try and evade my attacks now!" The human swung again, striking the albino wolf's left shoulder, sending him on his side, unable to move.

The large Ice wolf barked in defiance against his victorious opponent. "Oh you're still alive? Well I have to say I am impressed, a dragon would have been killed by a blow like that. It would be such a shame if a strong companion like you would have been put to waste." The crazed human gave a sinister smile. "Gol Ha Dov!"






Vigile clashed swords with Klitos as they both moved faster than any of the other ponies could make out. 

"Impressive, you are as fast as He was, but are you as cunning?"

Vigile gave a cooky smile. "Try me mother fucker!"

Klitos looked confused to the meaning of the word, but quickly ignored it and accepted the challenge. He disappeared into the shadows. "Can you strike what cannot be seen?" The voice of Klitos echoed in the field. Vigile was looking for his opponent. But in a quick gust of wind, he dodged an invisible blade that scratched his armor.

"You afraid of losing to someone who is two feet shorter then you? Come on! Fight me like a Man!" He shouted out. The wind changed again and Vigile, faster then the wind, turned around to clash with the upcoming sword.

"Interesting choice of words coming from a pony!" Their clash of might was disengaged again as Klitos returned back in the shadows.

Vigile gave off another cocky smile as he took a deep breath and closed his eyes, letting the humans magic and movement be the center of his vision. 

As Vigile closed his eyes to focus on the magic source, he could see through his eyelids, He could see everyone's magical aura and their sound made it easier for him to make out their next move. Klitos went for the attack, but his strike was blocked by his opponents sword. Vigile took the chance and gave a powerful blow with his front right hoof and struck Klitos' eye, Sending him on the ground. The captain of the royal guard, and the best friend of a genocidal human, had no mercy or honor of fair fight when it came to a threat against his family and home. His white wings quickly took flight to impale his defeated foe. Kiltos turned, rage in his

"NOT SO FAST!"







Starfall rammed the tip of his spear into Hephaestion shield, with a force that made him stagger backwards. "You may not look it, but you are stronger than I had expected. But you clearly are no Alexander!" Starfall didn't reply and whirled the spear, a show of skill to intimidate. "Come on, son of Luna, Show me what you have to offer!" Starfall flew up in the sky, away from the battle. "Clearly you do not disappoint!" He hooted as he surveyed his opponent in the sky.

Starfall smirked, there wasn't much of a battle to begin with. "If that amazes you, then feast your eyes on this!" Starfall left his position in the sky, revealing the sun and blinding his opponent who was gazing at him."

Hephaestion looked away, as the sun stole his vision. But as his sight recovered, he saw the winged warrior flying towards him. A large slashing sound could be heard... The spear landed in the general's shoulder, driven to the ground and unable to move. The human general screamed in agony as he felt his entire body shaking in shock of the wound. 

Starfall stared at the human for a short while as he fumbled around, convulsing with shock and pain as if he was not prepared to take it. How easy it would be to kill him. To hastily remove the spear embedded in his elbow and shove it right back down in his face. How simple the act of killing the only other real human he ever met would be. He face shifted from rage to confusion, as he began to marvel how frail even these creatures were. 

He almost forgot he was in a battlefield.

"Gol Ha Dov!" The loud thundering boom made Starfall turn his attention towards Frosthowl and Cleitus. Frosthowl was on his feet, standing like a statue looking at his New master. "FROSTHOWL!" Starfall called out. But he did not answer. 

Cleitus gave the young prince a sinister smile. "He belongs to me now! He is such a fine beast… I think I’ll call him... Gorehowl!" Gorehowl looked at his master as he called. "Kill the boy!" The moment the order was issued Gorehowl charged towards his former master. Starfall made a dramatic leap away from Hephaestion, who started to drunkly cackle with the rest of his strength as he realized what was happening. Starfall got up and turned to his former friend.

"I will not fight you Frosthowl!" Starfall spoke as he stared down the wolf. This statement made Cleitus laugh

"Foolish boy! Do you think this is some sort of fairytale? You cannot save your precious dog with words. The only way to survive is to KILL!" He spat out. Starfall looked away just for a second, but that proved to be his undoing. Gorehowl tackled Starfall to the ground as he stared down his prey. His massive fangs were a sight to behold. The prince was staring his lifelong friend in the eyes. To frightened to move. but not speak. "Gorehowl FINISH HIM!" Gorehowl looked back and forth to his previous master and his current one. Confused to what to do.

"Frosthowl, this is not you!"

"DO NOT LISTEN TO HIM AND TEAR OUT HIS HEAD ALREADY!" Clitous shouted out anxiously. 

"Break his magic Frosthowl! You are slave to no one!" ...Frosthowl was fighting the magical compulsion set on him. He was fighting ferociously with his entire core against Cletius’ magic, he would not kill his Master...His friend...His family. "I am sorry I failed your mother! But from this tragic event I met you! We became the bestest of friends, you gave me something I never could’ve dreamed of having… A brother." The final words felt like a spell that had removed the bonds of Frosthowl. 

"CAN YOU HEAR ME YOU WORTHLESS DOG!? KILL THE BOY ALREADY!" Cleitus Shouted out again as he stepped closer, prepared to do the job himself. Frosthowl winked at Starfall before beginning to viciously snarl at him. Cleitus stopped and darkly grinned. The two began to circle one another until Starfall was in front of him.

“THAT’S RIGHT YOU WORTHLESS MUTT!!! KILL HIM!” Starfall rolled to the side as Frosthowl leaped at the unprepared human soldier. Cleitus, paralyzed with fear, could only scream helplessly as Frosthowl’s fangs entered his eyes and was abruptly silenced as the wolf ripped off his head. The limp body fell to ground, blood pouring out of where the human’s head once was.

Starfall released the breath he was holding in the whole time. "You scared me there for a second." He picked himself up and looked at the dead human. "If aunty Rarity would be here, she would have commented about him being Such a brute. You know, after she’d passed out 20 times at the sight of blood." He turned to Frosthowl, who spat out the human head in his jaws in disgust. He grinned, relieved to have him back.

"Have at it, General!"





"I admit, you are a better swordwielder then I am, but I will not lie down and die after being imprisoned for two millennia."

Vigile, his body frozen by a restraining spell, growled at use of magic by his opponent. "I'm not surprised that a pussy like you would cheat in a fair fight!" He spat at the human.

"You were about to strike me down as I fell on the ground. Are we really that different you and I?" Klitos spoke coldly as he looked around the battlefield and saw his general lying in the ground wounded by the spear that belonged to the hybrid.

"GENERAL!" he ran towards him, with the pony still in his grip. "Sir, you're injured!"

"Tell me something I don’t know, lieutenant." He replied back while gritting his teeth in frustration, but when he saw the pony in his grip, he stopped gritting and smiled. "Quickly, let me devour that pegasus!" Klitos removed the spear with his magic and offered the helpless pegasus to his general. 

"Have at it, General." 

"Fuck you!" He spat at the human’s feet in loathing. Suddenly a purple chain was seeping out of his body. Vigile felt as his entire life was being drained from him. His armor was removed and he saw how his blond mane turned gray and his white fur coat did the same. He felt weaker and his bones felt more fragile. Unbeknownst to him, He was starting to look older and older until he was nothing but a barely lifeless husk. He fell to the ground as the general was done with him. 

"Good, my wound is fully healed now." Both the humans turned their attentions to their still standing enemies but stopped in shock as they saw one of their comrades had become decapitated mess on the ground.

Starfall also stared in utter shock. His mouth was hanging open and his eyes swollen open with tears about to seep out. His breath quickened and suddenly felt like his body was about to puke. He fell on his knees, his breathing kept getting worse and worse, He grabbed hold of the grass as suddenly. everyone could hear a shifting of noises inside Starfall's body, Like muscle,nerves and bones were being rearranged forcefully. He gave out cry of pain at his misery and loss. "VIGILE!" The voice of Starfall was gone, and replaced with the same of...Alexander.

"General! Whats happening to him?" Klitos asked out in terror.

"Zeus mercy...Its...Its Him" He replied in disbelief. A unnatural storm came from nowhere. Thunder and lightning struck the ground. 

"I...I WILL KILL ALL OF YOU!!!" As he roared up to the sky in fury the world had never seen before. 

All over the world, clouds of darkness formed in its corners. The dragon langs, Gryffindar, the Zebra deserts, the planes of the toraja, Saddle arabia and the Crystal empire all fell to the darkness that was Starfall's unmeasurable rage. In her throne room. Keristrasza stared out in her clouded kingdom, as she knew that the Avatar of Legion, had been reborn.

Meanwhile, on the battlefield, Everyone stared. Celestia and Luna had cast a counter curse on the ponies and now all their eyes were on Starfall, whose silhouette hung in the blood red sky as if he were an angel of death.  

The three humans, including Cletius’ head were lifted from the ground as they witnessed their final moments alive. Klitos flailed around pathetically, his mind consumed in terror, while Hephaestion stared into the young hybrids face. His eyes were blood red and his wings feather color had been changed to black, just like Alexander.

"Hello again, old friend." He croaked. Then, slowly, he closed his eyes and, sighing calmly, tilted his head down in defeat. Starfall flicked his hand and in a flash, the three humans had exploded into a bloody mess.


Unknown Location


In the darkness, not one, not two, but seven pair of eyes glowed and the creature smiled to itself before going out on a fit of Laughter.

End of Act III
> Chapter 16 A Deal With The Devil
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Act 4



Starfall was alone in the forest, trying to run away from the sight of watching Vigile die over and over again. He could still picture him going from a middle aged stallion, the pride of equestria, the most loyal of guards and one of its best, to a withered husk. Starfall watched his entire lifetime drain in a blink of an eye. But that was not the only thing that haunted him...






The sky was still tormented with the backlash of Starfall’s power. The winds were rampantly blowing, making the entire forest ahead bend in the face of the sheer force. The large pool of chunky blood that used to be three skilled and merciless human warriors was flowing down the hill and into the nearby river, turning it a slight shade of pink and red as it kept seeping down to Ponyville. 

Everypony looked up at the prince, who hung in the air with his wings outstretched. Slowly, he started to hover down towards the blood-soaked grass. Luna slowly approached her son, with fear dripping at her every step. They had eliminated the threat...but at what price?

“Starfall?” She called shakily. Starfall remained silent, his body still as he faced the gore covered ground. She kept moving closer to her son, making each step tentatively, suppressing her fears. Her son meant the world to her; She had to help him. She was close now, only 10 feet away from him. She called out to him again. “Starfall?” 

Without warning, Starfall turned around, with his eyes still burning with rage. Luna felt her throat closing, She hovered above the ground as her son used his magic against her. She felt a rush of terror as she couldn’t believe how her own son was attacking her. “Starfall! It’s me…” She cried out. This finally made him release the magical grip. Letting her slowly down on the ground.

His eyes and wings turned back to their former white and blue as his eyes starting surveying his surroundings. His breathing kept becoming more and more intense as he couldn’t believe what he had done. Not only had he attacked his mother, almost killing her as well, but he also brutally slaughtered those humans. But then a powerful migraine hit his mind as he was reeling in pain.

The sight of seeing Vigile’s medium aged face turn into a skeleton, Over and over again. “ARGH!” Starfall fell on his knees with his hands trying to ease the pain in his mind. Tears started to form in his eyes as his mind tormented him. 

Luna went over to her son and put her head above his. “It’s okay Starfall, it’s okay…”

Starfall opened his eyes with confusion as he stood up and separated from his mother as he got back on his feet
.
“Okay!? OKAY!?” He snapped. “I killed...them...I...I” Starfall could barely form words anymore, he was still in shock and guilt from his very recent. “I was ready for blood but not...This…” He hysterically looked at the soldiers faces and his mother and aunts. Some were clutching their swords, some were speechless to the display of godlike power and the rest, including his mother and aunt, were afraid of him. He kept turning his head backwards to see what was behind him as he slowly started to move into the forest.

“Starfall WAIT!” Luna tried to stop her son but her words did not matter. The young prince took one final glance at his mother, with tears in both their eyes.

“Forgive me…” And with those words he ran into the dark forest. Leaving the ponies behind.







Starfall had been running for a few minutes, he did not look back. But how could he? After he had failed to save Vigile, And mercilessly slaughtered the humans without any seconds thought...And the worst part was that he liked it. He never felt as powerful as he did when he tore the humans apart with his magic.

Alas, he stopped at a nearby river that was endlessly flowing down the melted waters from the mountain. He could barely breath and he felt an odd sensation of blood in his mouth. Tired from his escape and still haunted by the visions. The prince took a glance at himself in the lake. His eyes were still red along with his wings being black as the night sky. “Whats happening to me?” He begged. But his question was met with another vision of him tearing apart the humans. Their limbs cracking and bursting as their nerves and muscle were crunched up into a chunky mess. The prince flinched, as he could still hear the haunting sounds. The endless misery, was driving him mad.

He looked away in shame as he couldn’t look at his own reflection. He loathed himself for letting his...His father die...The closest thing he ever had to a father.  He was at the point of inducing vision struck his mind. But not of his failure...






Vigile was walking down the hallway. His night shift had just begun, bored from commanding the guards, he decided to let the chain of command handle his duty today. Vigile sighed as he was thinking of the good old days with Anthony and Discord making the job slightly more interesting, but now its just bureaucracy, paperwork and teaching the newly stationed guards not to be too cocky. He stopped in his tracks he looked outside. The city’s street lights were hypnotizing him into deep thought. His eyes adjusted to to his own reflection on the windows as he saw an aged bulky stallion staring back. “This place is a hell of a lot quieter without you buddy...You owe me big time for covering for your sorry ass.” He gave a low chuckle to himself. “You’re buying the first rounds on the side.” Vigile’s thoughts were interrupted as he heard a porcelain sounding object break in the kitchen behind him. In a instant, he readied himself and flew into the kitchen, expecting to find a burglar or thief. But to his surprise…He saw no pony...Or gryphon...But Starfall.

Vigile was a bit shocked to see the human foal out of his crib. However he was quickly calmed down as he saw what he was doing. Starfall, with a warm wool overalls that only revealed his face. He would have looked so innocent had he not been stealing from the kitchen. Vigile was lost for words as he saw the human foal trying to levitate food to himself. He could not remove his eyes in astonishment from the 2 year old colt. As he started eating the stolen midnight snack, he stopped eating as he stared at the armored guard. The both just...Stared at each other until a voice broke it up.

The doors swung open and a aged pegasus mare flew in. Her blonde mane and gray fur were not the most elegant, but still revealed a beautiful mare with a strong look of worry in her eyes. “Vigile, The prince is missing!” She shouted out. She looked stressed and exhausted from keeping an eye on him. One minute he would be playing with his toys, the other he would try to fly off the balcony. 

Vigile put his hooves on his wife’s shoulders. “Honey! Calm down, he’s fine.” He pointed towards the table, where the human foal was eating on the kitchen counter. 

Ditzy took a relieved breath as she found Starfall. “Thank you dear, I don’t understand how he disappeared. I was going to the toy chest and when I looked back he was gone.” 

Suddenly Starfall appeared in front of them in a flash of light. The pony couple was startled to see the foal prince teleport in front of them. The human foal looked up at the surprised ponies and gave a high pitched giggle. Vigile smiled as he stared at the foal prince. with his magic built into his armor, he levitated Starfall to Vigile’s level.

“You’re full of surprises aren’t you buddy?” Vigile said as he started making his way to Luna’s bedchamber. It did not take long before he was standing outside of her room with Starfall in his magical grip. He knocked on the door and waited for the Princess to open, but it appeared she was not inside. He slowly opened the door only to reveal his muzzle. “Your highness?” He asked out before opening it up completely. The room was empty of life. Vigile quickly trotted to Starfall’s crib and put him gently down on the madras. He was already fully asleep. He looked so innocent. It was really hard to believe that the small creature in front of him will one day be the tall and strong Prince of Equestria. “Don’t worry Crimson. I will keep my promise...Till the end.







Starfall fell back on his head as he was released from the vision. “VIGILE!?” He cried out as he looked around for his friend. His eyes desperately searched the area but found nothing. Disappointed, he looked back at his reflection again, with tears forming in his eyes that slid down his cheeks and fell into the lake. He tries to suppress the sobs and sniffles, trying to keep the last of his dignity intact and stop from crying out loud like a child. “Hear me Lightbringer!” He called out to the bright blue sky. “I beg you, Please! Cleanse my mind from these visions...From this guilt.”

Nothing happened. “I beg you...Grandmother! Cleanse me of my sins…” Again, nothing happened. “Please…” He lowered his head down from his gaze towards the sky. Staring at the dirt on the ground as he started to sob.

“My prince? Why are you crying? What has you so upset?” The unknown voice echoed in the forest.

Starfall’s eyes widened in surprise. He quickly stood up, with both his feet on the ground.”Who said that?” He asked politely. He scanned his surroundings, but found no pony or human. 

“I did…” The voice came from the nearby apple tree. From it, a snake with purple reptilian eyes and red scales showed its face.

Starfall was startled by the talking snake. “You can talk!? Snakes can’t talk!” He said, uncomfortable by the snake.

“It is understandable, Many of my kin do not talk, but where their lack of words fail them, I have found the gift of the voice.” The snake had a humble posture, constantly lowering its head to the child of night.

“Oh...Forgive me for my behavior, I am merely troubled by some...Unfortunate mishap.” Starfall looked away from the snake in shame.

“I can sense a vast amount of grief emanating from you, your Highness. What has you so upset?” He asked with a genuine consideration. Starfall was about to answer, but another vision of Vigile turning from a aged stallion into dust in a flash. He squealed out in pain as he tried to ease the migraine by rubbing his temples. “I see...You're overwhelmed with guilt, grief and failure.” The snake glanced at the tree that it was connected to before returning his glance at the prince. “Maybe I can be off help?”

Starfall rose from his knees in surprise. “You...You can?” He asked hesitantly.

The green scaled snake nodded. “This tree bears the fruit of wishes, It is responsible for my intellectual transformation and may be the cure to your Plight.”

Starfall glanced at the red apples that were within reach. He was a bit sceptical about the properties of the fruit. “Are you sure it can help me?” He asked as he reached out and picked off an apple from the branch.

“If you want the pain to go away...Take a bite and it will be like it never happened.” He replied, keeping his reptilian stare on the prince.

The apple made its way closer to the princes’ mouth as he slowly took a big bite off it. His eyes widened at the unrealistic taste of the apple...It was almost addictive. He quickly took another bite to quench his hunger for more. Before he even noticed, the apple was gone. 

“I don't feel any…-” Suddenly Starfall felt like his body had lost all control of his body. His sight quickly started to diminish and the world became more and more dark until he lost consciousness…







Back in Canterlot, The barracks were filled with wounded guards, mostly pegasi who were still seriously injured after the failed attack. The only casualty was Captain Vigile and many of the unharmed guards already started celebrating his memory with strong liquor and stories of how he used to kick their flanks. But in another part of the castle...The cries of mare could be heard as she was confronted with the bad news.

Zenith was standing outside of the room with another high ranking guard. Both of them could hear the poor mare’s crying as the Princesses delivered the horrible news. Eventually Luna came out of the room and both Zenith and the other guard Saluted. “Ma’am”

“At ease!” She commanded.

Zenith lowered his hoof down to the ground before he spoke. “Your highness, May I ask where the Prince is?”

Luna did not answer right away as She merely look out at a window that was looking down on the city. “I do not know...I think he needs to come interm with what he has witnessed...But still I am worried about what might befall him.”

“If you wish, I could fly out and search for him?” Zenith proposed, but Luna waved it off. 

“No...He needs to be alone for now, I have no doubt he can handle himself in the Everlife Forest and if he is ready to come back, he need to do it on his own.”

Zenith nodded. “Very well, Your highness”







“Hello elo lo…” His voice echoed. Starfall found himself yet again in a pitch black void, but this time he felt like he had more control of what was going on and he had no patience for waiting around for the cure to his incessant migraines. “SHOW YOURSELF!” He called out to the empty void.

A storm cloud of purple darkness revealed itself in the form of the prince himself. ”You ate the fruit and I have revealed myself, what is it that you heart desires?” He spoke with an unnerving dark and chilling echo that could seep its way into the bravest spines.

Starfall was a bit taken back by talking to a reflection version of himself and the threatening voice, but he did not sway away from his resolve. “I wish for you to remove my misery, that which causes me pain.”

The reflection form of Starfall put his hand on his in deep thought. ”Hmm...Very well, but heed my warning Child, My gift does not come without its own surprise. The reflection started making its way towards Starfall, pulling out his false hand to touch the real one. In a blinding light, the both of them emerged as one and once again, Starfall lost consciousness.

His eyes quickly open, Starfall felt like a heavy burden had been removed from his shoulder. He could breathe normally again and the...Pain...Was gone… “It worked!” He said with an amused smile. He slowly stood up from the ground to scan around and see that the tree he had recently picked the apple from was gone… “That’s a shame.” He said bluntly, with no emotion behind it. He looked up to the sky to see it was far from night time. “Well this is a bore...Lets see what I can find back home to amuse myself with.” 

Starfall was just about to make his way back to the Castle, but a loud growling could be heard a few yards away from him. Out of curiosity, he turned around to see what was growling at him. 

Out of the large bushes, a creature with the claws of a dragon, the head of a lion and torso of a lion, that had brown fur coat and as a tail it had a snake as its tail and with its murder red eyes it gave the Prince a low growl.

Starfall simply smiled at the lowly creature who had dared to approach him. “-Not before I have a quick lunch.” His hands gave of a black glow as he prepared to use his magic against the Chimera…
> Chapter 17 Melevolance
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	In the throne room, sat Celestia and Luna, working as usual. With the recent conflict, they had to push past a lot of important paperwork and with Starfall somewhere lost in the forest, they were less than at full capacity then usual. For them there was no sleep or rest, only the heavy burden of leadership.

Suddenly the large doors swung open and with it came a alert guard running towards them "Your highness! News from Ponyville!" He spoke as he approached the throne and removed his helmet.

"Yes what is it?" Celestia asked anxiously.

"There has been a report of a massive earthquake and forest fire in the Everfre- I mean Everlife forest!"

The royal sisters were lost for words. A forest fire and a Earthquake at the same time is not natural... Both of them looked at eachother wondering if Starfall was involved somehow. "Has there been any news of my son?" Luna asked, worried for her beloved son.

"No Ma'am, there hasn't been any sightings of the prince." The guard replied emotionless.

Luna took a deep breath as it was starting to make her paranoid that something may have happened. What if there were more humans in the forest, or in the world? "Very well, tell the local pegasus and the emergency squad in cloudsdale to produce more storm clouds to combat the forest fire, The earthquake will just have to be endured until its over."

"Yes Ma'am!" He saluted and ran off as quickly as he arrived.

After the guard left, Luna turned her attention towards her sister. "Tia are you alright?" Luna asked her sister who looked even paler than her white fur coat could reveal.

"Do you think maybe Starfall could be the cause of this natural disaster?"

Luna was taken back by the sudden accusation against her son. Sure he was powerful but he could not use magic during day time and he isn't strong enough to cause an earthquake if its not night time. "But Tia, its day time, Starfall can't use magic or his strength as long as your sun reigns."

"You are forgetting that he just tore 3 humans apart in broad daylight. Right in front of entire Equestrian defence force!"

"Of course I have not forgotten, But that was different, He lost himself to his grief and anger, releasing the powers from his father's side!"

"-Which means that it could still be him, who knows what the poor thing is going through after seeing the only father figure he ever had, die in front of him... I can't imagine what he could be going through right now...Maybe...Maybe he lost control." Celestia leaned back on the marble throne again as she was still grieving the unexpected loss of her Captain. Soon they would have to chose a new one, and she also knew that there was someone who wouldn't miss the chance to volunteer.

A powerful lightning and flashes brimmed inside the throne room. The guards present rushed immediately to defensive stance in front of the Princesses and faced what the anomaly that was taking its shape of a circle that was large enough to be a portal. From the portal, a human emerged, but its features could not be made out as it was still a white figured that hadn't been fully formed yet.

Luna and Celestia also took their stances incase it was another human who they had not known about. But their fears were quickly dismissed as from the white form, Starfall emerged with a neutral look on his face, like he was bored...

"Starfall!" Luna called out of joy. The guards went back into their previous placement as the threat was non-existent. "Thank goodness you are alright!" Luna threw herself on her son and gave him a comforting hug. Though he did not hug her back, instead he used his arms to remove her hooves off him. 

"Yes, yes I'm back. I'm gonna be heading to my room now." Starfall immediately turned his back on his mother and started making his way back to his room. 

"Wait! Don't you want to talk about what happened? or have something to eat at least?" Luna was not expecting her son to be so...Accepting of Vigile's demise, he saw it happening first hand, yet he was acting like he it didn't bother him...Like he didn't have a care in the world.

He quickly turned around to answer "No, I'm stuffed, I ate already. though it tasted awful, I guess I can't complain after all...I am moronic enough to use a forest as a fireplace and a half stripped open tree as a pike for the meat...Oh well." With those words, he made his way out of the throne room. Luna and Celestia were dead silent to what just had happened.







A full day had passed since the tragedy. The castle was awfully quiet and no guards were talking at their posts. no orders were being barked and even the servants were awfully quiet today and to add on top of that, it was scheduled rain today along with the quick thrown together funeral of Captain Vigile. Several ponies from Ponyville that were acquainted with him and some from Canterlot, came to pay their respects. The grieving widow was crying under her breath with the recent loss of her husband. Dinky was also mourning in silence whilst holding her mothers hoof.

Celestia took a deep breath before starting the ceremony. "We are all here today to honor the passing of Vigile. One of the bravest stallions I've had the good fortune to meet in the long time I have walked this world. He was a kind soul that brought people together and always helped those in need. He was loyal to the throne and his country. I remember it like it was yesterday, when he first put on his new armor and with pride beaming in his eyes, he swore to protect the throne and all of Equestria with his life, yesterday he fulfilled his oath and duty...He died a hero's death...He deserves a hero's burial." She turned around and faced the closed casket. "Farewell Vigile and thank you for your 22 years of service, Captain of the royal guard, Loving husband and father." Everyone were lining up to say their final goodbyes, everyone that Vigile would consider a friend had come...All but Starfall had come to show their respects.






Celestia made her way to her nephew's room. She was going to confront him about what had happened yesterday, for the reveal of daylight powers that nopony know he could summon and most of all, what happened when he ran off. Celestia noticed there were no guards stationed outside of Starfall's room, which wasn't suspicious but it was unusual. She knocked a on the door and waited a short moment, after no sound was utter, she knocked again with nothing but laughter and giggling. Celestia decided to open the door, to see what was going on. 

The moment she opened the door, a feminine voice could be heard yelling out by the interruption. Celestia saw the floor full with clothes belonging to Starfall and a maid uniform belonging to one of his hand maidens. The maid looked in fright at Celestia who was staring at Starfall with a scowl. However, he remained unaffected and continued to kiss the maid's neck with his aunt watching. "Leave us!" Celestia said with a stern voice at the poor maid.

"Yes your majesty!" She quickly ran out of the room, leaving her maid uniform.

Celestia walked in and kicked the door shut. Starfall just gave an uninterested sigh at his aunts annoying interruption. "I see you are interrupting my fun as always." He said rolling his eyes.

Celestia's horn started to give off a golden aura that was affecting the door. She took a long deep breath... "ARE YOU BUCKING INSANE!" She roared out to make the entire castle tremor. "How can you sleep with one of the maids during Vigile's funeral! Have you lost your mind!" surprisingly, Starfall seemed unaffected by Celestia's nagging.

"And I should care because...?" He asked leaning his head forward.

"Tell me what happened yesterday. How could you teleport in broad daylight and what exactly happened after you ran off!" She demanded with a very angry voice that would terrify most ponies, but Starfall just stared at his aunt with a cocky smile. 

"Nah, I don't feel like it." He said turning his back and lying down in the bed. Celestia's horn gave off its golden aura, she aimed her horn towards her nephew and started channeling a spell. But the moment it made contact with him, a powerful shock struck back, giving her a terrible headache. "Oh and if you are thinking about peeking into my mind, I've already put up several mental barriers which ironically, you taught me to repel against Changelings and Keristrasza.

Celestia was now frightened that her nephew had indirectly attacked her. He sounded not bother by this and was completely accepting of it. But the only thing running in her mind was the question: What happened...







The night sky was shining gloriously as always. The moon and stars were in their positions and Luna had finally finished sending back the letters sent by the world leaders about the appearance of the massive storm clouds all over the world. On her way back to her room, she could hear a sobbing stallion just around the corner. She glanced at what it could be and her eyes were not ready for what was to come. She saw Zenith and two other guards leading a beating, bruised and bleeding stallion to the dungeons below. "Hold Zenith!" She called out.

The three guards turned around to see the lunar princess approaching them. the two lesser guards quickly bowed in front of Luna, however Zenith did not change his stance. "Yes your highness?" He asked with a respectful tone.

"Who is the stallion and more importantly, what happened to him?" Luna asked, turning her gaze towards the beaten and bruised pony.

"I do not know who he is, but I was charged by Prince Starfall to oversee his punishment." He answered with no remorse or guilt behind his voice, even if he was the one that committed the inhumane punishment.

Luna was drastically taken back by the answer. She could not believe that her son would harm a single pony. Luna quickly approached the cowering stallion, her horn glowed with a bright blue aura that was conveyed unto the poor stallion. His wounds quickly started to heal and his eyes also shared the same glow.  "Forget everything that happened in the Castle and go home!" She rose up and turned towards the two guards. "Make sure he gets home safely!" She ordered. The two guards saluted and started guiding the delirious stallion away from the dungeon entrance. "Now tell me why I should not throw you into the dungeon for assaulting one of my subjects?" She asked, with anger brimming in her voice.

Zenith did not show any sign of fear from the princess' threat. "I only did what I was ordered to by The Prince." He answered.

Luna stomped the ground out of fury from the reply. "I DO NOT BELIEVE IT!" She shouted at him. But the initial shock started to settle, and as she pieced the pieces together from what happened today, and the day before yesterday, Luna turned her back on Zenith and made her way towards her son's room.

It did not take her long before she was standing outside Starfall's room. She took a deep breath before entering, bracing herself for might come next. She slowly opened the door with the wooden creaking sound emanating, alerting Starfall of her presence. She saw him sitting at the fireplace reading a book that was bound in...

"WHAT IN THE NAME OF LIGHTBRINGER DO YOU THINK YOU ARE DOING!!!" Luna commanded out with her legendary royal canterlot voice which she hadn't used in years, which is tragic that she had to use it towards her son. 

Starfall closed the black book full with dark magical secrets and gave his mother a deceptive welcoming smile. "Ahh, mother, so great you decided to come by!" He said sarcastically.

"What is wrong with you child, why are you behaving this way all of a sudden!" She called out, making the books disappear in a flash of light.

Starfall kept his red eyes on his mother and did not change his smile. "I was a little bit bored so I decided to read a book that I already hadn't read, and I can say that the books we keep in the forbidden section are quite the read." He said, trying to suppress an evil chuckle.

Luna scowled at her son for deliberately defying her and her sisters rules. "That is unacceptable! You know yourself that the forbidden section is off limits to any pony including the royal family!" Starfall did not respond. "you will tell me why you have harmed one of our subjects! What did he do to deserve those injuries that you brought upon him!"

Starfall peaked up at hearing the stallion that he had harmed. "Oh I have done nothing wrong, I simply sentenced the commoner to 100 whip lashings for not paying his taxes." He answered with such a passion that he gave off the vibe that he enjoyed what he had done.

Luna could not believe it...Her son was following in the footsteps of his cousin..."Why Starfall...Why are you doing this! Don't you see that you are following in the footsteps of King Sombra! If you continue to act in disregard of others, I will be forced to-"

"Forced to what? Kill me?" He interrupted her. "Then how about I make it easier for you then." A black aura surrounded his hands and from it, his fathers knife appeared. "If you want to stop me, you gonna have to do it now!" He used his powerful magic to drag his mother closer to him and raise her front part of her body to stand bipedal against him. The knife's tip was pointed towards Starfall's heart and Luna's hoof was being pressed up against the grip.

"Starfall! Stop!"  She protested, trying to free her hoof.

He pressed the knife further in, until it pierced his skin and dug into his flesh. "Do it! Kill your beloved son!" He pressed it even further, the knife was scratching the surface of his heart, yet Starfall remained unaffected. Several drops of blood started to pour out of the wound and Luna, despite all her strength and even some attempt with her magic, could not release herself. "DO IT!" He called out one more time.

"NO STOP!" The spell broke, and she fell backwards, with tears emerging from her eyes she looked terrified at her son.

Starfall smiled. "Pity...That was the one chance you had to stop me...And you wasted it" He pulled out the knife with his hand and a deep cut was left of his previous action. "I'm bored by this now." He started making his way towards the open balcony. A powerful cracking sound could be heard as his black wings seemed to be growing. "I'm gonna pay Keristrasza a visit, don't wait up for me and don't worry about any unexpected grandchildren." He gave a low chuckle before flying off into the distance.

Luna lowered her head, still shocked by the recent events, she gazed at the floor in shame, but a high pitch cry caught her attention. Luna stood up from the ground and slowly walked towards the window, where the sound originated from. She looked out and saw Frosthowl chained up below the spiraling tower. "Starfall..." she uttered in disbelief.







Thunder and lightning, the sky was covered in a endless wave of thundering clouds and volcanic tremors. Starfall saw how all the dragons in the mountains and below narrowed their sights on him, except a few hatchling and drakes that foolishly fly in the prince's direction were quickly turned into ash, the older dragons however were afraid of the bold prince, not by his magical powers, but old memories rushing back to them.

Starfall landed in the heart of the crater, A dried out vulcane, that had erupted several hundred years ago was the only mountain in the world, big enough to house the dragon queen, Starfall unimpressed by the humongous size of the mountain, kept moving on, his amber eyes quickly caught sight of dragon's and elder wyrms keeping their distance behind the prince. Not fearing to walk in to the pitch dark mountain entrance, he kept on going until he eventually came to what was the grandest of grand throne rooms he had ever seen. This however caught his attention, he was impressed, you could fit a whole castle in a single throne room, his nocturnal eyes caught glimpse in the lonely corner a large pile of gold, the size of Canterlot city walls, but he had other booty in mind. Moments later, he saw her off in the distance, sitting in her throne that was made out of solid gold, she sat, waiting for the prince to approach her. Starfall krept a smile and kept on walking, but just then, a massive claw struck the ground before him, stopping him in place.

"Nacoz varazhj, human, you dare approach my mate?!" The loud roar of a dragon could be heard echoing throughout the mountain. Starfall did not answer and brushed off the dust that had landed on his cloths, ignoring the black dragon. "Such insolence, such arrogance!"

Starfall glanced at the golden throne with the queens leaning lying sideways, enjoying the alpha male show off that was being displayed in front of her. "If you wish my favor, you must earn it." Her magnificent voice cried out.

Starfall simply sighed. "Very well." He replied.

The black dragon bellowed out a laughter that once again echoed through the mountain. "Do you really think you can vanquish me?! I survived the onslaught of your kind in ages past, I will show my dominance and supremacy over all life once again!" an infernal blue fire started to glow from the giant dragon's stomach. Suffer human! Just as the fire was released out of the dragon's mouth, Starfall was engulfed in flame. The black dragon smiled, thinking he had slain his challenger. "Unworthy of my flame" The smoke cleared and revealed Starfall maintaining a black barrier, his eyes were glowing crimson red. "What!?" The dragon panicked, but quickly took a deep breath and spewed out another wave of fire, this time, the fire was circling around the black dragon, the same barrier that was protecting Starfall, now encased the black dragon instead. The dragon, unaffected by his own fire, was very quickly running out of air, his own flame and smoke would now be his end, He stopped spewing fire and started to slam and claw the barrier, gasping and pleading for air, the dragon slowly wore himself out until eventually, he fell against the barrier, unconscious due to the lack of air.

"The dark void awaits you, worm!" Starfall spoke with spite and malice in his voice. He could feel the ancient dragon's heart slowly giving away. ´´Just a little more...´´ He thought.

The sound of clapping could be heard across the room, the dragon queen's humanoid form made her way towards Starfall. the sound of bracelets and rings clinging, caught Starfall's attention. "Well done!" Starfall dropped the barrier, letting the colossal dragon hit the ground with a massive quake. "Well? Aren't you going to assert yourself?" She said, turning against the unconscious body of her former mate.

Starfall smiled. "With pleasure." Starfall  made a slapping motion against the wind, from it a large crack could be heard and the giant dragon's body gave a final twitch before going completely limp.

"Well done, you have earned my favor, Prince Starfall!" The dragon queen announced as she pressed her body against the prince's, her pristine eyes, with the same colors as Starfall, she smiled, finally having the world's powerful creature in her arms, and as her lover.
> Chapter 18 Herald of the End
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Keristrasza found herself in a lifeless world, the sky was an empty void of nothingness, the sun had been extinguished, the moon had been shattered and the stars are gone. The ground was tainted and the grass was as black as the sky. the mountains had collapsed in on themselves, and the trees had withered to husks of their former selves. The ocean and the rivers had been dried out leaving no life in the world.

Keristrasza, in her human form, was not letting down her guard, in a nightmarish void like this, danger could be lurking everywhere. 

"Where are you Starfall?" She asked herself, moving thousands of feet every step she took. A sudden voice appeared behind the Dragon Queen.

A dark mocking laughter echoed throughout the void. "There is no Starfall, We. Are. Legion! Keristrasza turned around to face the Dark Archangel, In all her years, she had never seen anything as horrific as what was facing her. A seven headed dragon, twice her dragon size. Seven heads, all the representing its nature, Evil. Keristrasza tried to focus and see beyond the the clouds that were concealing its face. "Begone, filth!" The voice penetrated her mind and it felt like a thousands shrieks of excruciating agony surged through her.

Keristrasza fell on her knees from the screams. In a flash, she could see a planet, very similar to her world. She saw starving children being slaughtered just for the sake of bloodlust, she saw humans erupting in a explosion killing those nearby to it, she also saw for a quick second humans dressed in suits, talking to hundreds of thousands of humans, being allured by its lies, she saw humans hanging themselves in despair and lying on a pavement during a blizzard.

The flash of images disappeared as quickly as they had arrived. "You resist, but it is inevitable, your world is doomed, and We will once again be born in Anger-Hatred-Pride-War-Fear-Doubt-Despair!" The heads answered separately. Once again, their voice clawed at Keristrasza's mind. flashes of humans going into battle with weapon's similar to what Starfall's father had. charging into battle and getting torn apart by spits of fire and metal. mechanical machine's that spew fire and devastate a whole village and a egg made out of metal falling in the sky and with the same intensity of a thousand suns devastated glorious cities several times the size of Equestria.

Keristrasza snapped out of her trance and regain control of her mind. She looked up at the dragon who was lowering its seven heads. Only their glowing eyes were visible behind the murky clouds."Even the righteous of you will be corrupted and those who oppose me will fall! 

Keristrasza saw herself floating in the air, watching the final line of resistance against shadowy figures. One by one, ponies, gryphons, minotaurs, horses, zebra's and humans being consumed by the unending darkness. "Then at long last, Legion will reign supreme and there is nothing you can do to stop it!" Instantly, Legion disappeared as quickly as he had arrived and the screams stopped and  the Dragon Queen found herself standing in the Everlife forest. It was freezing, there was snow everywhere, she looked around for a second and there she saw him...

A younger version of the prince, he seemed to be somewhere around 6 to 8 year old "Starfall?" She asked stepping closer, as she did, she made out what he was doing. She went to his side and saw the dying wolf cub in his arms. "Starfall!" She called out to him to look at her but he did not acknowledge her. "Snap out of it! You need to return to your body!" She shook the young prince's body.

"I-...I tried to save them..." He spoke with a cracking voice. He was so close to breaking down and crying.

Keristrasza was confused to who he was referring as them. She took a glance to her right side and saw who he was referring too. What she saw, was almost as horrific as Legion. An endless snowy field, with mountains of piled up corpses, mostly humans, some ponies, it literally went on in the background as a mountain chain of piled up corpses. "Lightbringer's mercy..." She spoke in horror. Such unspeakable evil would break anyone. But the Dragon Queen was not anyone. She had seen her fair share of blood since the beginning of her reign. "Starfall you need to return to your body or this vision is the future that awaits us all!"

"No! I won't leave him!" He protested out. His grief quickly turned into anger. His eyes turned red as his hair and focused it directly at the Dragon Queen. "LEAVE US ALONE!"







The Dragon Queen's eyes opened. She felt Starfall's body pressed up to her back. ´´I failed...I had only one chance to bring him back and I ran out of time!´´ She carefully crawled away off the bed and in a flash, her golden and red plates were attached to her body once again.

She left the bedchambers with the Prince still asleep in her bed. Keristrasza made her way to one of hundred secret rooms in the mountain. One of them had been storing something very powerful for millennia now. It was older than the mountain that she had lived in for the past four thousand years. She arrived at a blank wall. It was a painting of things to come to pass, drawn hundreds of years ago when she first was given this vision of the future.

In the paintain, the image of a seven headed dragon could be seen grasping the world with its tail. A human bowing down before the moon and sun. And a blue star, brighter and bigger than the others, that will be lost to the cold and empty darkness of the void. "The visions are coming to pass, but I wonder...What comes next? Are we truly doomed to evil or is there hope?" Keristrasza muttered to herself. She moved up to the side and watched the continuation. There was nothing off the blue star, but what she did see however was an ancient pool of water, older than the Dragon Queen, she knew right away what it was, for she had seen it with her own eyes. the next image is that of three humans chained in blood to a seven headed dragon. Could it possibly be Starfall, Alexander and Crimson or something else.Another image held the markings of a black sun. Could this mean either the death of the Celestia or the fall of her grace. An uneasy feeling of crept up her spine, Keristrasza always could see into someones future at will, but lately that power had been falling her, especially during the gathering a couple of days ago. Despite her frustration, everything else is translatable except one part of the vision. The image of a bleeding heart. Could it mean the death of the Crystal Queen? or maybe the Princess of Love? or maybe, something entirely different...

The Dragon Queen sighed, this did not help her understanding the coming threat, could it be true? Has Legion won already, are we doomed to an existence of eternal darkness? She went away from the painting and into a pillar holding a vial of glowing water. It radiated a soothing glow that was equal to the moon and stars. "This small vial is all that stands between complete annihilation of all life." She stared at it. She had saved this vial for several thousand years, before the age of the princesses. All because of a voice in her head telling her to save it. 

She smiled. "Lightbringer, you cunning witch!"








"Another falls to darkness...Where does it end sister? When will we know peace from this evil?" Luna said with tears sliding down her cheeks. "I-...I don't know if I can fight my son."

"I understand how you feel Luna, I also lost one of my children to the same fate." Celestia walked towards her sister and raised her head.

"Even if we would stand up to him, how could we possibly defeat him? He is more powerful, stronger and faster than Davios, the elements of harmony may work, but if the ponies would use them, if they could even bring themselves to use it, who can say that he won't harm them?

"As always Luna, you let your emotions cloud your judgment." The very familiar voice of Keristrasza came. The two princesses looked away from each other and saw humanoid dragon queen in Luna's bedroom. 

The two princesses quickly picked themselves up and gave a judging look at the Dragon Queen. "Why have you come here, Keristrasza, aren't you supposed to be with my son?" Luna said, hinting to the fact that she knew about their Special night.

The Dragon Queen rolled her eyes. "I am here to help you."

"Hah, Help us!? You are just want to save your own hide."

Celestia raised her hoof in front of her sister. "Thats enough, sister, her motives do not matter, if she is here to aid us, we can't turn her down."

There was a silence before she spoke. "I have no interest in your son, Luna, I merely did what I had too."

Luna narrowed her sight in anger. "I have a hard time believing that." She replied. Luna turned and saw her sister shaking her head in disapproval. "Very well then, what did you discover?" She said biting her tongue.

"Once our business was done and his guard had been dropped, I made my way inside the deepest corners of his mind and what I found...Could not compare to anything I have ever witnessed." Luna and Celestia gave eachother a quick glance as Keristrasza stared off. They were taken back by her state...It almost seemed like she was afraid. But what could possibly scare a dragon the size of Canterlot and as powerful as the princesses.

"Keristrasza, are you alright?" Celestia asked, genuinely concerned.

The Dragon Queen snapped back to reality. Her eyes swinging back and forth between the two princesses. Quickly regaining her composure, she took a deep breath before continuing. "Inside his mind I found It...I found Legion." The room went silent. The two princesses widened their eyes in horror. It is as they had feared. Starfall is enslaved just as Davios Sunbright, Alexander and Crimson, all bound by the same fate.

"How-...How is it possible!?" Celestia asked terrified. "Crimson, gave his life to destroy Legion!"

"It is a mystery. In his final moments, Crimson, absorbed the Dark Archangel into his own body and destroyed his weakened physical form. But his spiritual form is still somewhere out there."

"You don't actually think that Legion is possessing Starfall do you!?" Luna asked, not wanting to believe that her son was the vessel of Evil.

"The force controlling Starfall is but a fraction of his being, yet he was powerful enough to break Starfall's will. Knowing this, leaves me with one final question...Where is he fully manifested?"

Celestia glanced worriedly at her sister, she knew that the cold grip of fear had entangled them both and now they were at a crossroad that could determine the fate of not just Equestria, but the world. "What else did you see inside his mind, do you know how they merged?"

Keristrasza nodded. "I do, but I did not see it in his mind, I foresaw it happening." For a moment, both Luna and Celestia were silent. "I had a vision the day before I attended the UN Council meeting, I was given a vision of a child, doused in blood and crying infront of a mirror like pool. With a nightmarish tree growing behind him, the child was covered more and more in a shadow that the tree was giving off. until an apple fell of one of its branches, then the crying stopped."

Luna was furious. She charged her horn, with a powerful spell ready to strike down the Dragon Queen. "Why did you not tell us!?" She cried out.

"Luna!" Celestia called.

Keristrasza did not back down. "You know that I cannot reveal the future of others. I am bound to secrecy, forever being the keeper of fate, even at the expense of all life on the planet." Keristrasza put bluntly. "But I am allowed to take action, that is why I delved into Starfall's mind. And now I need you to trust me."

Luna's horn dimmered and her previous stance was gone. Her eyes still kept their sceptical gaze set on the Dragon Queen. "Very well, but this better not be another trick or I'll do ten times worse then what Legion will do to you." She took a deep breath, letting her frustration out.

Keristrasza nodded. "As we speak, by servants have been tasked to...Slow down Starfall's arrival."

Celestia leaned back in surprise. "Why!? Why would you provoke him?" She asked.

"I saw in his mind that his next step was to overthrow his family from the throne and then...create enough havoc to feed Legion back to his full strength. The only way for you to have a chance against Starfall is if we summon the elements, the Crystal queen and Princess of love, Then I shall reveal to you my plan of attack."







Hours had gone by, and the Princesses, with the help of the Dragon queen, were able to quickly assemble all the ponies. 

Prince Shining armor, his wife and his daughter all attended, representing the Crystal empire. The princess of magic and her friends, the elements, also attended the gathering. They were also exchanging glances and whispering in the background. They were all curious what the dire circumstance could have brought them here. 

Once everything had quiet down, Keristrasza spoke. "I thank you all for coming here on such a short notice, as you all know, you've all been brought here, because there is a threat, literally on the horizon that could threaten all life of Equestria and even the world.

The elements gasped in fear. "What is this threat?" Twilight asked, stepping forward to speak for her uneasy friends.

Keristrasza was going to answer, but Celestia beat her to it. Knowing that she would have frightened the ponies to much with extreme detail. "I'm afraid that its foe we thought vanquished, Legion, has returned." A cold chilling gust flew across the room. The ponies were not familiar with Legion's evil first hand, but Shining armor was.

His eyes were dead staring through the Celestia, in the past, he had been sculpted to his control and even manipulation that almost lead to the death of his wife. "How...How is it possible!? Wasn't it destroyed by Crimson?"

"We thought so, but it would seem that he has found a new champion to cover the world in darkness." Luna awnsered again.

"Do you have any idea who it could be?" Cadence asked. A silence fall across the room. The princesses couldn't bring themselves to face the reality.

"Wait a second...Where is Starfall?" Skyla asked. Unknown to her, her father and mother quickly started understood what his absence meant. "Where is Starfall!?" Skyla asked worried.

"He is the reason why we are all gathered here...The same curse that once affected his father, now is plaguing Starfall." Keristrasza answered.

As if her heart had stopped, Skyla was standing completely still. A tear starting forming in her eyes. Starfall was like a brother to her, to even imagine that he would hurt her...

"Now hold it one darn second!" Applejack protested. "Aren't we jumping to conclusion, Yer sure that Starfall is evil'n all'?"

"In his mind, I saw him planing to use your heads as a decoration for a ritual that would dry out the earth. I am very sure he is corrupted." Keristrasza blurted out. Applejack slowly sat back down, shocked by the sudden and graphic outburst. 

"Uhm...Miss, human-Dragon queen?" The timid of Fluttershy reached Keristrasza sharp ears. "What is it, Element of kindness?" Her response only made the timid mare hide below the table. She slowly remerged from below, hiding behind her mane. "Uhm-..I was going to ask how Starfall is-" She stopped mid sentence.

Keristrasza raised an eyebrow at the incomplete question. "I'm guessing you wonder what caused Legion's reawakening?" Fluttershy give a shivering nod. The Dragon Queen gave a long and drawn sigh. "Very well." Keristrasza stretched out her hand, with her golden and crimson scaled gauntlets, with claws on the fingers. A dimmer red flash enveloped the whole room. in literally a flash, they all found themselves in front of Starfall, who was on his hands and knees, just by a river.

All the ponies looked around and recognized immediately that they were in the Everlife forest.

They saw his black wings and glowing red eyes. He couldn't stand the sight of his reflection. He frantically started ripping off the black feathers. 

"Vigile..." in a split second, the ponies saw, what the prince saw. A flash of imagines with the sight of Vigile from a middle aged stallion, to dust in a blink of an eye. He clutched his head and screamed out in suffering. The elements were horrified by what Starfall had seen, and at such a age. "Lightbringer...Please help me!" He cried out.

A dark laughter could be heard, one that Starfall couldn't. "My Prince, what has you crying, what has you so upset? The too familiar voice of Legion echoed in the vision. However, disguised to the prince as a voice, similar to any other creature, he did not hear the evil in it.

The ponies witnessed the whole transaction, how he questioned the reality of it all, the offer given to him and his point of no return.

The vision returned back to the palm of the Dragon Queen and all the ponies were speechless. If they only knew how much the young boy suffered in his final moments.

"Now you all know what is at stake here, we stand in the crossroad of doom. If we do not act quickly, not only will Equestria perish, but the rest of this world and the others to come." She stated bluntly with no forethought to their feelings. "The only way for us to stop him is to pick a champion of our own. One that will carry the burden of the world on their shoulder and wield the sword that will strike the darkness. However, only one of a mastery of the art of magic, can be chosen, leaving you five as the prime candidates." She pointed towards the princesses. A thick silence hit the room. The princesses were speechless to this. Even if they would have the power to stand up against Starfall, who could bring themselves to bring down someone who had given them a new hope for the future of Equestria? The sad part of placing your hope on someone, if they fail you, despair takes a much stronger hold of you.

"What do you mean exactly by picking a champion?" Skyla asked.

Keristrasza glanced at every pony before finally giving up. "Starfall is the most powerful magic user in the world, his strength is rivalved by none that walk this earth. The only way to even stand a chance against such a being, is to channel our powers into one single being. One that will be able to wield the powers of a goddess. However, no physical body can wield such powers without tearing yourself apart. The longer the use, the bigger risk of being turned into ash. Once he is weakened, the elements will strike him down." Once again, the room was filled with an unbreakable silence. The former Captain of the Royal guard was also stunned and horrified that there was a chance that either his wife, daughter or sister could be the one to die.

All the of the princesses and the Crystal queen shared several glances at each other. Cadence, horrified that if her daughter would volunteer, she could be the one to fall into harm. She took a deep breath before speaking. "I will do it. I can't let Auntie Luna face her own son, as a parent myself, I can only imagine what you are going through. I will face Starfall." All eyes were casted on Cadence. They were surprised to see her be the first to volunteer. Skyla was ready to protest out against her mother's decision, but someone beat her too it.

Luna shook her head. "No Cadence, I promised Crimson, that I would look after my son, I would protect him from the grip of evil. Today I will fulfill my promise." Cadence leaned slightly back from the protest. "Besides, you have a daughter and a husband that love you, and lauren forbid I would let anything happen to my niece!"

"Luna, we would all understand if you can't face your son. I will volunteer in your place to face Starfall. It is the least I can do as Princess of Magic." Twilight suggested with a gentle voice.

Despite all their discussing of who would bear the burden of challenging Starfall, would eventually lead them nowhere, as they all have families that they need to return too, Children, husbands or even bonds stronger than family. Only one had the least to lose would they fall. 

"I will do it!" Celestia protested out. All the ponies immediately looked towards her in surprise. "You all have to much to lose should you fall, and some of you lack the experience to face a power you cannot fathom. Cadence, I would never expect that you would leave behind your family, and Lauren knows I wouldn't be able to forgive myself is either you or Skyla came to harm." The two pink alicorns didn't say a word as they were both still speechless. "Twilight, I wouldn't abandon your friends and besides...I've heard that you've taken interest in a stallion during your stay in the Crystal Empire." She said with a small smile, trying to hide the grief in her eyes. "And lastly, Luna...Starfall is going to need you more than ever when this is all over...He will need his mother. The boy already grew up without a father, and in the past day to lose the closest thing he has had to a father was taken from him...If he would hurt you, he wouldn't be able to recover from that!" She stopped talking and tried to suppress the tears from what was, her way of saying good bye. All the ponies, including the dragon queen were lost for words. She turned towards Keristrasza, with a determined look that could pierce metal. "I will be our vessel of power and that is final!"

Keristrasza, still needing a second to process the whole thing, finally snapped out of it and gave a slow nod. "If you do this...There is no going back, are you truly ready to delve into the maw of evil?"

"I am!" She said with a booming confident voice.

"Very well then, you five will meet me in the courtyard in an hour and I shall start the ritual."
	
	
	 
	
	
	
	
	 
> Chapter 19 Vessel of Evil
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Celestia walked through the halls of Canterlot. It was very late in the night and the soothing atmosphere was almost hypnotic. She had wandered through these halls for almost a thousand years. She had been in every secrete passage, every corner and every room of this gigantic castle. She had made thousands of friends and few enemies during her reign. On her way back to her spire, she remember all the fun times she's had meeting the generations of ponies. She would befriend one, and it would lead to a friendship that would stay in their family for several generations. She's seen young stallions, anxious to serve their princesses and from a klutzy cadet, to a hard boiling general. 

Arriving back at her spire, she took one final glance around her room. approaching her mirror, she used her levitation to remove it and behind the mirror was a hornhole which only she could open. Once inserted, the wall started giving off a light yellow glow. The walls were giving off the sound of grinding stone and the wall revealed to be a secret room where her old golden armor was placed. Not wasting any time, she immediately started to put on one plate after another. She paused to look at her reflection on her helmet, it had been 600 years since she last put it on, during the second gryphon, nopony even remembers it happening and there are few historical references to it, with only Celestia's eyes as witness to most of the events that happened in the early years of Equestria. Celestia finally put on her helmet and left her room. She slowly closed the door behind her as she took one last glimpse of it.

She spread her wings and took a quick flight towards the Canterlot garden maze. She was going to pay somepony a visit before her leave. Landing at the very heart of the maze, Celestia furled her wings behind her back and took in the sight of it all. She looked around to see the very heart of the garden, it was filled with flowers and trees radiating the starlight from the sky. At the base of a bone white oak tree that was the oldest thing in the garden, was a tombstone. Celestia approached slowly approached the tombstone.




Davios Sunbright
Beloved prince and son of Equestria.
May you find the peace in death, that I could not give you in life. 

-Alexander Crystal King




"Davios..." She spoke tearing up. "My child, I've never forgotten about you...Know that you've always been in my heart. You've given me strength when I had none. The nights where you slept under my wing, the days you beamed with joy and happiness, that all could thrive and prosper from. It it this is what has given me purpose in life." She stepped closer and kissed the tombstone. "I have always been proud of you and I look forward to our reunion."







Keristrasza had drawn magical runes all over the courtyard, it was all a necessary part of the ritual. Luna, Cadence, Skyla and Twilight had their own markings to stand on, they would be completely drained of all their magic. There was a chance that they would be robbed of their powers forever. They could only hope that it would be returned to them. 

"All the preparations have been made, are you prepared to fight Starfall?" The Dragon queen asked, approaching the Alicorns that were in the middle of their goodbyes.

Celestia looked a bit annoyed that she would barge like that in between her friends and family. "I am." The ponies went to their assigned places and waited for it all to start.

Keristrasza wasted no time on starting. Celestia stood in the middle of the runic markings where all the others had gathered. The eyes of the Dragon queen started glowing with a magical surges erupting as she focused her magic. A dark magical cloud started to take shape as she spoke a language that neither Luna nor Celestia could comprehend. The runic markings began to give off an intense black,red and green glow. From the markings, you could make out that it was an upside down star inside of a circle. More and more runes started appearing until their light started to envelop the whole courtyard. The five marks that the princesses and queen started to transfer a magical beam, with the colors of light blue, pink, night blue, purple and red that was draining them of their magical powers. Celestia felt an unmeasurable amount of pain as she was overwhelmed with power, such as she had never felt before. her body gave off a blinding golden light that made the elements look away until a powerful slam could be felt on the ground. As their eyes cast back at the princesses, they saw that the golden light subsided back to its source. Luna and the other alicorns were standing up from losing their strength, their power was the divine gift from the Lightbringer, it was a part of their being. Without it, they are greatly weakened. Luna got back on her hooves and saw her changed sister, she was passively emitting radiant magical surges. Luna just watched in awe at her mothers powers fused into one being.

As the ponies and dragon queen also gathered themselves up, a sudden clapping could be heard...

"Marvelous display, to bad you don't put this much effort during the summer solstice." The voice of Starfall echoed throughout the court. The ponies and dragon queen all shoot their eyes towards the castle roof, where he was sitting and hiding in the shadows. A mocking laughter echoed as he disappeared into the darkness. "Do you think you can vanquish me? I have to admit, I'm curious to find out." His voice originated all over the place. Fluttershy had hid herself behind her friends, while the alicorns were desperately trying to locate him.

"Starfall you have to fight it! Don't let Legion control you!" Skyla called out, frantically looking at every corner of the court. From nowhere, he appeared right in front of Skyla, thats when all the ponies saw what he had become. His wings had been colored black and his eyes were dripping with bloody tears coming from his red eyes.

"Foolish child, do you belive words can save him!?" A telepathic voice came from the winds as a gust of wind started blowing heavily. 

Celestia fired a bolt of magic that hit Starfall, sending him flying over the castle walls, down below to the river flowing down the mountain. Starfall only laugh at the muzzle attack and fell directly towards the ground, creating a crater.Flying down to face him, Celestia readily awaited for him to come out from the ground. "I will not allow you to hurt anyone else Starfall, I will free you from Legion's corruption or die trying."

"I think I prefer the latter. Very well, you seek to challenge me, I will grant you my personal ATTENTION!" An shadow bolt erupted from his hand and was launched towards his aunt. Celestia countered the attack by nullifying the darkness within it, rending it a mere windy breeze. Starfall unfurled his wings and flew up to the sky, the clouds had blocked off the sky and the sun was out of view. Celestia quickly followed her nephew and charged another bolt that hit him directly, yet he was unphased, like it had no effect on him.

Fire started to rain from the sky, heading directly towards the alicorn, Celestia carefully dodged or destroyed the meteors that were thrown towards her. "Let us help you Starfall! You need to stop this madness before its to late!" She called out, hoping the boy would see reason.

Starfall only replied by creating a hurricane to tear her apart. She couldn't let a hurricane fly past her, even if she would outfly it, Canterlot could be damaged by the hurricane. She channeled her magic to banish the hurricane to the void. Her horn started to give off a slight sting of pain as teleportation of such a magnitude cost a lot of her strength, costing her precious time she did not have to waste. 

"Are you alright, Aunty? is your new powers to much for you too handle?" Starfall asked mockingly, knowing that her powers could eventually kill her. Celestia narrowed her eyes in anger towards him. Starfall suddenly lost control of his wings, like they were being forced to unfurl back to his back. Due to the lack of flapping, he started to lose altitude, and he fell towards the ground once again, but this time, accompanied by a humongous golden beam that burned his skin and made him feel excruciating pain. Enraged, Starfall freed himself from his aunt's telepathic hold of his wings. "Enough! I tire from these games!" Teleporting out of her sight, The young prince appeared behind his aunt and was going to strike her with his own fist. Quickly reacting, she created a golden shield to take most of the impact, making her hit the ground in impact, causing a massive tremor. Celestia drowsily flew out of the creator and felt a wet sensation in her muzzle. She touched her hoof towards her nostril holes and saw blood was slowly coming out of it. but it was not the result from the attack, but the shield she put up. 

"You break my heart, Starfall. Your mother and I have always thought you to be the new hope of this world, We thought you would mend this world's wounds and bring peace to it, by fusing with Legion, you have turned your back on everything we've ever done for-"She did not get a chance to speak another word before she was sent flying through the fields due to direct contact with a sinister purple lightning strike.

"What I ever did, I did to make you both proud." He cried out as he kept launching black magic at her. "Tell me how proud you are Aunty!" He shouted, never letting go of the sight of his aunt reeling in pain. "Tell me...TELL ME!!!" Relenting in his assault, he summoned a grand storm that would strike down directly under him. A massive blue beam the size of a village, hit the ground, devastating everything in its path. 

A thick layer of dust covered the ground, there was no sight of the princess. Starfall kept his guard up and slowly examined the giant hole in the field.






"So thats our plan of attack? I doubt I have enough power to subdue him, even with our powers combined." Celestia added in to the Dragon Queen's plan.

"Yes, it is true, even with our powers combined we still don't have enough power to bring him down...Thats why I brought this!" Keristrasza opened her hand and revealed a vial containing a strange glowing liquid. 

Luna and Celestia looked in awe at the vial. The others looked at it more out of interest. "WHERE DID YOU FIND THIS!?" Luna blurted out, in surprise. Celestia was lost for words, she waited for the queen's explanation.

"I have had this vial in my possession for tens of thousands of years, it is the only thing standing between us, and certain doom."

"I'm sorry Dragon Queen, but what exactly is inside this vial?" Twilight asked, stepping closer and getting Keristrasza's attention.

She smiled. "Long ago, when this world was young, there was a well that contained a strange and mystical glowing water, legend has it that it was the very source of life in the world, without it, the world could not exist...This water had a unique effect on the earth, if a single drop would touch the ground, the soil would be forever be a flourishing garden of life, acting outside of the laws of nature. but, if a living being ever drink the water, they would be either granted magical powers if they had none, and if they are natural magic wielders, they would be immeasurably empowered for a short period of time. With everyone channeling their powers into Celestia, drinking the vial of life would literally give her the powers of a goddess."





"Do not hide from me aunty, I can still hear your heart beating and I mean to correct that!" Starfall said, flapping the dust away from the area. A bright light could be seen at the very bottom of the hole. "There you are!" He dived down head on, thinking Celestia a easy kill. A blinding beam shot up towards the sky, tearing up the ground and removing the thundering clouds. Starfall was sent flying out of the carnage. He was grievously injured from the attack. 

Flying out fully revitalized, Celestia channeled her powers into another attack. Starfall was also quick to recover and charged his hands with a sinister black and red energy. Their magic connected and they were both equal in power, neither had the advantage and they were both channeling limitless powers to fight the other, while Starfall could not defeat her, he did see that his aunts magic was starting to literally dissolving her being. Celestia also saw how her wings were the first to be turned into some for off golden ash. 

"You cannot hold out forever Celestia, even with all your powers, I am still stronger!" The prince cried out. Thinking his victory was moments away.

"I do not need to defeat you!" She called out. Starfall was confused by this, out of instinct, he turned around and saw The Elements of Harmony, all formed up and with their attack launched and on its way to strike down the fallen prince.

The rainbow beam of power hit the prince, but he was far from over. "Insects, you seek my demise? it will be the downfall of you all!" The magical beam was being slowly corrupted. It started turning gray and black, making its way back to the source of the elements. He was countering Celestia with one hand and corrupting the elements magic the other. He was still too strong to be brought down. Celestia was the one to lose ground for each second as she was slowly withering away. Their plan had failed and now he was going to defeat them all in a single move. "I. Triomphe! Thinking his victory was sealed, and with the ponies disparaging that they had lost, something happened that nopony had expected. A loud howl could be heard. The human and the ponies all threw their eyes towards the charging wolf. It was Frosthowl... He ran towards the beam of power that was battling his aunt. He jumped and pushed Celestia out of the onslaught waiting for her. "NO!" Starfall called out. Before the beam hit Frosthowl, his concentration was broken, making his black magic disappear into thin air, however, the magical beam channeled by Celestia, hit him right on as she was still standing and focused. He was launched directly towards the nearest mound. The corruption of the fallen prince had disappeared, giving the elements a straight shot towards the weakened prince. The elements of harmony made direct contact with his body, but everything else went dark for everypony present.







Fluttershy was galloping from a terrible shadow that was relentlessly hunting her. She kept glancing over her shoulder as the shadow was gaining more and more on her, returning her gaze back on the path ahead, she saw a dim light ahead as the trees were were narrowing it for her more and more, taking one final jump to safety, she tumbled across the ground and landed on her side as she surrender to whatever was chasing her. A murky mist started to take shape from the dead trees. Fluttershy was screaming in terror, she was dreading what monster would appear from the shadows. Surprisingly, it took the shape of a goat. Fluttershy's shivering stopped as she took a deep relieved breath. 

However, she was wrong to think that the threat was over. Before she could stand up, the goat turned around and revealed to be a monstrosity with seven eyes and seven horns. It quickly changed back to its previous murky form of mist and shadows "Do you see now the false nature of safety? Fear is the ultimate form of control and power. Witness my truth and see the reality of life!" The forest disappeared in a quick swipe, Fluttershy however was still covering her eyes from the shadow. taking in a few quick glimpses, she saw that the ground had been replaced with a surface of water, which she was sitting on. Jumping up in fright, she could see terrifying creatures from the depths all circling around her and praying on her fear.

A loud laughter could be heard as the manifestation of fear was enjoying its easy prey. "Behold the truth. As light dimmers, so does courage veins, and at the bottom of the ocean, even light must die...Now show me what you truly fear!"







Rainbow Dash was flying around in a sky, empty of blue or a sun, it was only pure darkness, there was no ground or sky, no winds and no clouds. "Show yourself you no good worm!" She said unsure and nervous whilst, boxing the empty air. She was anxiously awaiting an answer from whatever had dragged her here.

"Insolent filth, you stand tall and secure on the ground, confident and arrogant in the air, but I will show the dark and depressing reality of life. and you will come to doubt your abilities"

The rainbow maned pegasus gave a confident smile to the bodiless voice. "Oh yeah, what are you gonna do!?" She talked back at the ancient spirit.

A trembling laughter shook the void. "We will see if you can keep up this facade, I will take great pleasure from this...To make things more interesting, every second in the real world that you are here will feel like a year, we will see if your friends will save you before you go insane..."

The pegasus scoffed. "My friends will help me get out of here, then I'm going to kick your flank to Canterlot all by myself!"

The laughter echoed once again through the void "We will see how long your resolve lasts, because the clock. Starts. Now!"







The malicious Aspect of Despair was feeding off the fear and doubt from the lesser ponies, subjected to its corruption. The power absorbed from the ponies now fuels to create an ever greater source of nourishment. The shadow of despair found its victim, one very vulnerable to the emptiness of life.

Applejack was reliving an event that she had almost completely forgotten... The death of her parents. 

She was seeing the whole thing from a birds eye perspective, she couldn't look away, no matter how hard she tried, Applejack could not look away. Something was forcing her to see it all happen. She saw her parents running in what used to be the everfree forest. Timber wolves, once again were threatening the lives of kin. They had always been sneaking in to apple acres in search for easy prey. This time they found it in the form of a baby Applebloom and Applejack as a little filly. Their prey was an easy one had their parents not shown up to mislead the timber wolves and give their offspring enough time to escape. In the end, they were corner and knew their time had come...

Applejack was horrified and completely shell shocked. She saw her parents being pounced on and viciously being torn apart by wolves who were drenching themselves on their blood and flesh, some were fighting about the large pieces of meat by grabbing it and pulling it two separate sides until it tore off. A blue and black shadow appeared to her side that took the shape of Applebloom as a filly. "Do you see now how the world works?" The voice of Despair spoke in a tone that radiated hopelessness. "Stallions...Mares...and Foals...None escape the grasp of death...My death won't be any different." Using its powers, Despair conjured up the image of a younger version of Applejack, mourning the death of her sister and friends on the day that they were attacked and Crimson saved them...But this version of the story was changed to leave her as the only survivor, with her sister and friends all lying bloody in the cold ground. The two Applejack's merged into one. Their grief, sorrow and despair became all consuming...






Rarity was sitting in her room back at Canterlot. She could not remember how or why she was in here to begin with. Then the door swung open...

"Rarity, are you finished with the wedding dress soon?" Luna asked, looking around for the finished dress. 

Thats when it hit her... Today was Starfall's big wedding with Princess Skyla, and she hadn't even begun on the design óf the dress. Rarity panicked and resorted to the only thing she could do at that situation. "Oh yes, but ofcourse, its being finished as we speak, I'll have it brought to you before nightfall!" She proclaimed. Luna gave the mare a acknowledging smile. 

"Thank you Rarity, Starfall and Skyla are very grateful for help. I will be on my way now." The Lunar princess closed the door behind her as she left the room. 

The moment that the door close, Rarity threw herself to her silk closet and frantically started looking for the best quality that she had, after a few seconds of searching, she remember that she had to first create the designs for the dress, so she threw herself to her drawing board and started making skits for the bride's dress. To her surprise, she was quickly coming up with one of her best and most extraordinary designs. "Yes! This will be my best work in my life!" The design was finished in a flash and it was time for her to start sowing together a fabric that was sitting on the desk on beforehand which mysteriously just appeared, but Rarity had no time to argue with her fortune, so she started up the machine and had her hooves were at their optimal precision. This dress was going to be her most important work in her life, her reputation and name was in the line, if she would ruin the dress or make it into anything but absolute perfection, she could never show her face in Equestria ever again.

As the loud machine was working, the door creaked open...A small and frail colt at the age of 3 years old, he had the same white fur coat as his mother and a darker blue hair then his father. The colt reared its head to see what all the commotion was all about. "Mommy...Is everything okay?" He asked timidly before coughing small droplets of blood on the floor. Rarity did not answer, she was far too busy to care for her sickly child when she had to get the dress done. "Mommy...I don't feel so good." The colt was drowsily staying on his hooves before collapsing on the ground. The young colt's body was the same temperature as a furnace, he was shivering and freezing from his weakened state. The lack of empathy wasn't helping either. Even despite her son collapsing on the ground, Rarity kept her complete focus on her work

Unbeknownst to her, her reflection in the mirror was watching it all happen...The face of pride was smiling at the mare's vanity, it was formidable enough to suit its needs for nourishment, making it grow in strength and power.







Twilight was dangling in a cocoon just above her mentors throne in Canterlot, she woke up horrified to see changelings everywhere. There were pods in the entire roof with innocent mares and children all being drained out of their love for one another. Twilight did not understand, how did she get captured and where were the princesses?

"I see somepony has woken up a bit to early!" The voice of Queen chrysalis haunted her in her cocoon. "Do you like my work? Look around you, I managed to take over Canterlot without a hinge and I killed your precious Prince Starfall!" She laughed and fell backwards in utter enjoyment of her victory.

"Where is- Where is Princess Celestia! What have you done to her you monster!?" Twilight spat back at the changeling queen.

Chrysalis glanced behind her. "What ever do you mean? I've simply helped her see things in a different light." From the shadows, emerged a changeling version of Celestia, now a mindless slave to Chrysalis. The changeling queen let out another fit of laughter as she was rubbing her victory in her captors face. 

Twilight narrowed her eyes, she was furious and full of hatred and it felt like her fuming breath was enough to melt the cocoon, but instead, she was trapped, the only thing she could do was mash her hooves against her prison whilst the queen was watching her little fit go down and she was laughing even more seeing her futile attempts to smash the cocoon.

"WHEN I GET OUT OF HERE I AM GOING TO DESTROY YOU!!!" She roared at the top of her lungs, filled with unending hatred.







The manifestation of hatred and pride now was feeding its younger head, Anger. The shadow absorbed everything the ponies had to offer and turned it quickly into more potential power to bending anger from the terrifying pink pony that was the biggest threat to reality and it.

Pinkie pie was jumping around in a voidless space, with no ground or sky to keep her sane, it had appeared that she did not mind the bleak and spooky atmosphere. She was humming a tune to herself as she was prancing around. Anger quickly stopped her in her tracks as it took the form of Starfall right in front of her. "WHY ARE YOU SO HAPPY?!" The form roared out, almost catching on fire when it did.

Pinkie laughed at the image. "Silly, why do you look like Starfall?" 

Anger was not one to prone on patience as its name suggested. It quickly changed its image to a simple shadow to avoid getting any more comments of its appearance. "Answer me!" It called out once again.

The pink mare laughed again at Angers...anger. "Why wouldn't I be? I'm in a weird place with my friends with me, Its just like the good old days when we used to go on super fun adventures! Do you want to hear about?" 

Anger hovered quietly before speaking again. "You consider them your friends?" Pinkie nodded very anxiously. 

"The bestest!"

If Anger had a mouth for the time being, a smile would be present. "Then tell me why you are always the one that they always do their utmost, to avoid?"

Pinkie was confused for a moment. "Huh, what do you mean?"

"You may be on friendly terms with your so called friends, but whenever you try to reach out to them, they see you merely as a distraction, a blight, a pest to be removed!"

Pinkie's ears shot down as she was slightly disappointed. "Hey thats not true, my friends love me and would never do anything to hurt my feelings!" She protested.

"Do not deceive yourself child, I see beyond time, space and reality, I know existence and true face of all living beings, let me show you how your friends feel deep inside about your presence."

The empty void took shape of a scene that played years ago, when she first started hanging around fluttershy. "Don't worry about meany gilda, your aunty Pinkie Pie will take care of everything." After she had left, the voice of Fluttershy started to appear without her moving her lips. ´´I wish she would stop patronizing me, If she would only just once treat me with a little dignity. Pinkie was about to protest out to this vision, but another one appeared. One with Rainbow dash trying to avoid Pinkie pie at all cost so she could be left alone. "But..." She was cut of again as another vision appeared, one with her and Rarity at the meeting party when Twilight first settled in Ponyville. ´´I can't believe I'm around a 4 year old filly who can't sit still for a second!´´ The voice of Rarity spoke with her accent. "That never happened!" She protested out. 

"Oh it did, at least she thought it, and there is more!

The vision of Pinkie jumping into a crystal mud bath with a belly dive and seeing Twilights rection. "Pinkie Pie! Honestly!?" She shouted out. ´´Sometimes I wonder why I even bother bringing her along´´ She thought, and Pinkie could hear every word of it.

"I have told you nothing but the truth, your friends do not love you as much as you imply, the truth of the matter is that you are nothing but convenient for them as the element of laughter and cheap entertainment. Anger saw how the pink mare was becoming more and more vulnerable to its influence.

"Are you telling me that my friendship with the others has been nothing but a lie!?" She asked out loud

"Yes" 

Slowly, Pinkie started to breath more quickly until she let out a scream of utter rage. Kicking and destroying everything in the vicinity of the paused vision. 

Anger seeing its purpose has been fulfilled, vanished into thin air before letting out one last victorious laugh.






Starfall was in the darkest corner of his mind, released from the chains of guilt, he was once again conscious to what was happening. He remember that he had been frozen with guilt over the image of Frosthowl dying as a cub in his arms...A nightmare more horrific he could not imagine. But freed from the illusion, he could now take control of his body again. 

"Did you really think your sins would be washed away, just because my illusion has worn off? Do you not understand the futility off what you are embracing? Let me show you the horrors unleashed by your kin! His mind once again was influenced by the dark and ancient presence. A loud agonizing sound of screeching metal was shattering the fragile prince's mind. He felt as his whole being was being torn asunder. Every moment felt like an excruciating eternity. He saw the images of soldiers screaming out in agony as their body parts were scattered in the battlefield, he saw a school full with human children was blown up in a blink of an eye, killing hundreds of innocence. "Do you see now? You were made for self-ruin and destruction! Starfall couldn't fight off the pain, he was reaching the point when he would do anything to stop the pain. As it felt like he was seconds away from submitting, a cleric sound of absolute serenity strung, releasing the prince from the Ancient's grip.

A voice beaming with hope and full with light was singing in the prince' mind. "Do not fall into darkness child, your loved ones are need of your help!" ´The dark corners of his mind was slowly subsiding as he felt more in harmony with his being. He did not understand where this new angelic voice came from and who it was.

"Who...-Who are you?" Starfall asked mesmerized. The ground beneath the prince was changed to a lush grassy plane, the dark and murky void sky was banished and replaced with a shining sun glowing giving warmth and comfort to the prince. the cold and dead feeling of emptiness was gone and a fresh scent of flowers and crisp mountain air was felt in the young prince' lungs. Restored to his former self, the prince felt his strength return to him. The voice did not reveal itself in a physical form, but its presence was clearly felt.

"Starfall, as we speak, Your family and friends are in danger, by the same evil that seeks your enslavement now works to corrupt their spirits."

in awe of the creature of immense presence of serenity, The prince knelt down, humble to be present by such an entity. "How can I save them? I could not even keep my spirit pure from that accursed fiend." He kept his gaze directed towards the ground, the wind changed its direction and a warmth could be held on his shoulder, like hoof touching upon it.

"My beautiful prince, you do not realize that there is so much more to you then you know. You are not the vessel of evil that you think you are. You are my grandson, my cherished hope for not only this world, but many more. I have faith in you that you can save them." Starfall opened his eyes and only saw white furred hooves before he felt a kiss on his forehead. As everything was slowing fading away, he could still hear the final words by the Lightbringer. "Remember that, which grants you light in life." At that moment, the prince' mind was finally clear and freed from everything that was weighing down on the young mind. Starfall focused his mind to free the elements of harmony. He could feel their pain and suffering. 






Starfall saw Fluttershy crying and screaming in fear in the middle of a misty and reflecting still ocean. Her hooves were covering her eyes, from witnessing the terrible monstrosities that were circling her. A golden light enveloped Starfall, a light similar to that of the dawn. The illusion of fear was quickly fading away, yet Fluttershy was still huddling around her own tail. 

"Aunt Fluttershy! Snap out of it!" Starfall called out.

"No! I...I'm afraid." She whimpered. 

"That is a lie, I know that in your heart you are the braver pony that you make yourself out to be."

"NO, NO NO! ITS NOT TRUE!" She cried out, still refusing to open her eyes.

"I am telling the truth, aunty, I've heard stories of you standing up to mean dragons who caused trouble to Ponyville, most ponies would not even dare to be anywhere near close a dragon, let alone standing up to one. You could do it because you had to courage to stand up for your friends and family!" Fluttershy's shadow, seemed to be splitting off from her, like there was a darker force at play. "But I need you to be braver then ever before. They need us, aunty. Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow dash, Pinkie and Rarity are all in need of our help."

The shadow emerging from Fluttershy was forcefully ripped off as it vanished into thin air. She slowly removed her hooves from her eyes and slowly emerged from behind her mane. "Starfall?" She spoked, finally freed from her fear.

"Fluttershy! Thank the Lightbringer!" Starfall flew over to his aunt and embraced her into his arms and in turn, she embraced him back. "I was afraid that you had given in to fear." Putting her back on the grassy ground, Starfall saw the dried tears in Fluttershy's eyes.

"You don't need to worry anymore Starfall, but you are right, our friends needs us and a true friend helps a friend in need." She spoke with a glimmering smile that brought newfound courage to the Prince of Equestria.

"I promise you, Aunty, I will save our friends, but now I will send you back to the real world." With a final wave of his hand, Fluttershy was gone from the illusionary world. Starfall stood back up at his full height and prepared himself for the next obstacle.






Starfall's presence reemerged in a pitch black world where there was no ground to stand on. He fell a few yards, but quickly started to flap his wings to regain his altitude. Scanning the sinister world, he could not find Rainbow Dash anywhere. He could sense her, but he could not see her. Something that Starfall quickly noticed however was that his wings were getting very tired quickly. He had only been flying for a few seconds but he felt like his mind was about to go crazy from the exhaustion. Understanding that he couldn't keep up his flying, his eyes starting to glow bright gold once more, The prince removed the illusion of Doubt and saw that behind the darkness, there was a safe wheat field leaning with the wind. He landed safely on the ground and looked up towards the beautiful blue sky and saw the cyan pegasus flapping endlessly. 

"Aunty Dash!" Starfall called out, but she did not answer, she just kept focusing on keeping her altitude. Starfall tried to use his magic to teleport her down to the ground, but when he did, a mysterious force would shield her from his magic. Starfall was still exhausted from the few seconds of flying and it felt like his wings were paralyzed, but that did not sway his resolve. Flapping his wings once again, he could only barely leave the ground with his weakened wings. For every moment that was passing by, it felt like an eternity to reach. He was keeping his gaze fixated on the flying mare. Trying to reach her and save her from the Illusion of Doubt. However, in a ironic turn of events, Starfall was quickly beginning to doubt his own resolves that was a moment ago strong and sturdy. He was gaining more and more height, but he didn't know if he had enough strength to reach her. "Aunty Dash, Please, you have to break free from this illusion! I...Need you!" He cried out, he saw that the mare was still ignoring him. "Aunty!" Starfall had stopped in a specific point in the air because his wings could no longer fly any higher, he was at the point of literally falling to his doom. A few more seconds passed and his wings gave away, Starfall's entire body fell to doubt and was paralyzed to stop his fall to the ground. Thinking this to be the end, Starfall closed his eyes and waited for the inevitable.

"STARFALL!" His eyes shot open and saw Rainbow flying towards him with a incredible speed. The sun was at the mare's back, light a beacon of hope, she reached out her hoof. Before Starfall hit the ground, He grabbed her hoof and was saved from his fall. But the moment he thought he was safe, His feet was back on the ground and Rainbow Dash was completely gone, nor could he sense her. The wind blew at the prince' back and he knew in his heart that she had broken free from the terrible shackles of doubt. Seeing his aunt freed, he focused towards the next illusion.






The prince of Equestria reappeared in what looked like a gray and blue version of Apple orchard. The crops were dead, the trees had shed all their leaves and the house itself was torn up and old. Starfall could sense the presence of Applejack, yet he also felt a thick sorrow in the air that was making it very hard to breath. Scanning the dead farm, he saw off in the distance a crying orange filly with a hat similar to that of Applejack. There was no doubt in his mind that it was her. "APPLEJACK!" Starfall called out. He ran towards the orange mare off in the distance, but as he ran, the scenery changed, the apple orchard disappeared and was replaced by a snowy forest, the everlife forest. Starfall reacted to the sudden change and stopped running. As he looked around, he quickly forgot about his goal to free Applejack, instead another figure emerged off in the distance, one of a bleeding white wolf. Starfall ran as fast as he could to save the poor injured wolf. As he did, his form changed from his late teenage self, to a child version of himself, yet the prince did not acknowledge this change.

Starfall finally reached the wolf and quickly started to focus his powers to start healing the wounds, but despite how much the young prince tried, he could not even get his hands to glow with magic. The child prince, started to give in to despair, thinking it was all hopeless. He had started to doubt his own abilities and barely had the strength to stand up, let alone healing a wolf several times his size. The wolf winced and cried out in a high pitch tone that made the prince anguish in its cries for help. Finally, the wolf's breath started to fade away until it stopped moving at all. Starfall could feel how its life was quickly drained and until it was completely gone. "I...- I couldn't save her." He said tearing up. "I...Am worthless...I am nothing." The boy started crying. He felt like his world had collapsed on him and there was no hope in going on. Starfall crawled closer to the body of the wolf and cried into its fur.

After several long minutes of crying, the boy felt like the pain had faded away. Sitting with his back leaned against the wolf, he started remember what he had originally came here to do "Applejack..." And at that moment, he realised that this was all an illusion. Starfall clenched his fist, with his eyes narrowed in newfound determination and hope, he broke free from the grasp of Despair and shattered the illusion, revealing Applejack and two dead ponies who shared similar traits to her. Starfall knew of her tragic childhood where she lost both her parents in a timber wolf attack. He had asked the question once or twice how and when it happened to Granny Smith. Starfall slowly approached the still filly. Starfall was about to put his hand on the filly's shoulder, before a sturdy force field kept him from intervening. The only one who could break the field was Applejack.

"What you witnessed, Applejack, was a tragedy nopony should ever have to suffer." She did not even flinch at his comment. "But we all grow stronger from our experiences in life, you have endured one of the most terrible things in life, and from it you grew up to become such a wonderful and strong mare. You value the hard and difficult concept that is truth, when living life with lies is so much easier, yet you still are able to do it." Applejack was still not looking up at Starfall, but she was showing signs that his words was reaching her. Starfall used his own magic to remove the sight that was in front of the filly and replaced with a gravestone that had a bouquet of flowers at both their graves. "Your parents would've been very proud of you if they could see you today, and so am I to call you my aunt and to have you in my life to teach me right from wrong."

Drops of tears hit the ground as Applejack was starting to sniffle and breathing more and more hastily, untill she also gave out a cry of grief. She started to cry like a foal at her parents graves. Starfall finally seeing his aunt returning to him, threw himself at her to comfort the transformed mare. "Its okay to cry!" He announced with her in his arms, whilst also sharing a few sympathetic tears over his own grief. Applejack tried to talk, but she just kept stuttering her words and unable to form a sentence. "Shhh its okay.- Its okay you've held it in for a long time now, let it all out!" In a blink of an eye, Applejack was gone from his arms. Starfall felt a slight sense of joy returning to his heart as he saw how he helped Applejack with her pain and grief. 

Sometimes, all anyone needs is to let out their pain and share a good cry with that someone they love and trust. Before Starfall left this illusion, he wiped away one of his own half-dried tears from his face.







Starfall found himself in a house he had never seen, but the decorations around the house was only known to him by one and that was Rarity...Also there was a few pictures of her and Fancy Pants. Starfall slowly made his way up the stairs towards what he assumed was his next destination. He could hear the loud noise of a sewing machine, a sound he was more than familiar with in the company of Rarity. "Aunty Rarity!?" He called out, hoping to get a response. He opened the door to the room that was making the sound. The second he touched the doorknob, a flash blinded and transported him to his bedroom where there were several pristine white and red tuxedos dressed unto human shaped manikins.

"What was I doing again?" He asked himself. The door swung open and there stood...Vigile.

"Starfall, you're gonna be late for your own wedding ceremony!"

"Vigile!?"

"I don't wanna hear any excuses, soldier! Get your ass to the throne room, its my job as best-stallion to get you there, no matter if you're the king or prince of Equestria!" With Vigile urging the prince to keep moving, whilst pushing him, he made it to the throne room where he could see his entire family waiting for him and several ponies who have all gathered to witness this occasion. He took his place by Vigile, Frosthowl and Spike who all stood there as his closest friends. The prince couldn't help but to smile at such a joyous occasion. The birds chirping melody was sung and everyone's eyes was averted to the large doors of the throne room with two ceremonial guards opened the door with their magic. At the large doors stood Shining Armor and Skyla in her wedding dress. Her beauty was out of this world and paralyzed the prince in astonishment. She delicately made her way towards the altar where she separated from her father. As she approached Starfall, she stared into his eyes with a smile that seemed to reflect back at her. His heart was racing and he could not remember the last time life was looking so brightly towards him. He hoped this moment would last forever. 

Princess Celestia stepped forward and was ready to proceed with the wedding. Whilst Celestia was speaking, Starfall glanced over his best-stallion, friends and family. He could see his mother sitting at her throne watching the whole thing with tears in her eyes. Starfall was also very happy to see the friendly neighbourhood ponies of Canterlot greeting him along with a few citizens from Ponyville. 

"-And do you, Princess Skyla, take Prince Starfall to be your husband?" 

"I do!" Her eyes sapphire blue eyes stared directly into the prince' eyes. She levitated the golden ring whic made its way unto his ring finger.

"-And do you, Prince Starfall, take Princess Skyla to be your wife?" Vigile stepped forward with the ring and presented it to the prince. Starfall turned around to pick it up from the royal cushion and held it within the grasp of his fingers. As he was about to levitate the ring and give his answer, he saw that all the elements of harmony where here except Rarity...She was the only one missing. Why would Rarity, out of all mares miss out on the day of his wedding, Lightbringer knows that she would drop anything to be one of the bride's grooms. The crowd of ponies started to mutter amongst themselves as the prince was taking his time responding to a question with only one answer. Skyla also started to look worried. 

´´RARITY!"

The prince now remember it all, he knew the exact reason why she wasn't here. Because this was all another illusion given of by the sinister shadow of Pride. "I...- I can't marry you Skyla, because this is all a LIE!" He cried out. He could feel a burning desire to stay in this world of constant happiness, but what would the point of life be if there is no hardship. It is hardship that allows joy to exist. "BEGONE FIEND!" With a mighty roar, the world shattered and Starfall found himself in Rarity's sewing room with her son on the ground and her eyes on a terrible mess of a dress that looked like a rag cloth that was stitched a million times over. "Lightbringer's mercy..."

Starfall ran towards his aunt and tried to shake her out of her state, but the moment Starfall was about to grab her, He was flung back with a magical barrier that protected Rarity from any outside contact. The same also happened when he tried to pick up her son. "Rarity, how can you sit and work while your son is laying in floor, in need of his mother!" Rarity did not respond, her eyes were still completely focused on her work. "Do you not see what Legion is doing to you? He has forced you to forsake what you love! He has clouded your mind and blinded you from what really matters in life..." Starfalls own words started to have an impact on himself, as he more and more started to take in his own advice. "You're family...Friends, they all love you unconditionally, and so do I..." for a moment, you could see a hesitation in Rarity's sewing. "Do not turn your back on everyone who loves you...on Sapphire Star." At that point Rarity stared into the mirror, her eyes starting to tear as she realized what she had done. The mare kicked her work chair away and threw herself at her son, Immediately taking him back to his room. Starfall followed and saw how Rarity saw caring for her sick son. She was levitating a spoon with medicine whilst her son laid in his bed, unlike a moment ago, he was awake and smiling, So was Starfall, happy to see everything back as it should be. As he was preparing to leave, he glanced back at the room and saw that Rarity and her son were gone.






Starfall reappeared to what looked like the inside of a volcano. He quickly scanned his surroundings and was cacious for anything that could pop up and harm him. though his hopes of finding Twilight were slim as she was not in this particular illusion. "Aunty!" He called out and spun around, trying to find any lead to what to do. 

"YOU!" The voice of...Starfall called out. The prince turned around to see the spiting image of himself with a angry frown. "Do you have any idea what you have done!?" He called out. Starfall was shocked to see his clone in such a state. "Because of you, I lost everything!" He called out. The prince stood silent, not knowing what to do. "Do you have nothing to say for yourself!?" He cried out again.

"I have done nothing!" The prince called out.

"Thats precisely the problem! You should have saved him, you should have been accepted what we truly are and destroyed the humans! Because of you, VIGILE IS DEAD!!"

Starfall was taken back by the accusation, there was nothing he could do to save Vigile, in the day he was but a mere human. "I couldn't have changed it, I can't use my magic during the day! I was powerless to stop them!"

"Powerless...POWERLESS? YOU HAD ALL THE POWER IN THE WORLD!!! The clone charged at Starfall who didn't have a second to defend himself. Before he knew it. The clone was using its own powers against the prince, not only choking him, but fusing them together. Starfall did his best to resist the merging, but he was no match against his own hatred. "Because of you, I lost EVERYTHING!" Starfall's shadow started to fuse into him until he eventually fully absorbed the real one.

Starfall opened his eyes and they were burning with a renewed sensation of anger. As he stood up from the ground he found himself at the edge of Everlife forest. Quickly looking around for the human that took Vigile's life, and it did not take long before he found him.

Hephaestion was staring directly at him, with a devious smile. "I hope you do not mind if I dispose of this first?" He said, lifting up the body of Vigile and incinerating into ash. Starfall roared in absolute anger and charged directly towards Hephaestion. Ready with a punch with enough strength and force to literally obliterate his body. But the conniving human blinked out of sight, leaving the ground to take the hit. A giant earthquake followed as he struck the ground. From the impact, a humongous crater was born. about hundred feet wide and deep. Starfall quickly searched for the human. "Did you really think I would battle someone with your power?" He mocked. "You can't kill me if you can't find me."

"SHOW YOURSELF!!!" He cried out. A whistling sound from above the crater. Starfall quickly looked up and followed with charging up a disintegration beam that literally tore up the ground and scarred the upper crusts of the crater. Melted sand and rock flowed down as Starfall spread his wings and flew up again, still on the hunt for his enemy. Hearing how Hephaestion was calling out to him in one dilibert path, Starfall followed until he reached an abandoned and gray looking Canterlot castle. Starfall used his power to single handedly tear open every roof in the entire city, thinking that he was inside of of them. He quickly let the roofs drop down ontop of their previous place. Starfall saw at the corner of his eye, Hephaestion at the castle balcony. He immediately turned around and flew towards the castle. But instead of tearing it apart, he decided to confront the human. crashing through the stained window, Starfall saw his enemy waiting for him in front of Starfall's throne.

The prince crept a smile. "You have nowhere else to run, you may try and avoid me, but I will catch you!" He spoke with an amused tone.

Hephaestion did not move. "I suppose that you are right, very well then, have you vengance and be done with it!" He said, accepting his fate.

Starfall fumed and gathered all his strength, all his power, all his hatred and anger and focused it all into his fist. The ground and sky quaked as the prince roared out and launched himself towards Hephaestion. For a second, the illusionary world switched from two different ones, one with cocoons and with Twilight and Pinkie all staring in horror at the prince. The powers that Starfall had unleashed was making the illusion unstable. The moment he saw this, he dropped down on his hands and feet on the ground. Starfall finally snapping back to reality, felt how his anger and hatred were causing him extreme pain, groaned and stammered as he was trying to regain control of his body.

"What are you doing!? DESTROY HIM!!" The voices in his mind called out.

"Lies! He is already dead...and so Is Vigile!" Starfall cried out.

"If you do not obey, I will destroy us both! Starfall's hands glowed with golden light. Starfall stood back up and plunged his hands inside his body. "WHAT ARE YOU DOING!?" The voice called out.

"Purging myself from you!" there was no gaping hole in his chest, his hands were merely effecting Starfall's spirit. "I am no longer your slave Legion. I will tear you out from my very being, even if I have to be removed with you!" The voice did not even have a chance to reply before a midnight black shadow was being torn out of the prince' body, clinging on to him like a spiders web to its prey, though Starfall was no helpless prey. With his hands emerging out of his chest, the shadow was forcefully torn of his body and Starfall felt a terrible burden vanish. He fell halfway on the the ground until he managed to catch one hand on the ground. His breath was increased from the strain that he put himself on, and as he looked up at Hephaestion, the illusion dissipated and with it, he could see Pinkie and Twilight staring at him.

"Starfall?" Twilight asked as she stepped closer and closer. 

A happy smile spread itself across his face. Seeing his aunt Twilight and Pinkie safe from harm. The prince threw himself at his aunts and embraced them both with his wings. "Thank the Lightbringer I did not harm you!" He cried into their shoulders, but when he leaned his head back, he quickly saw that they were gone...






Luna flew through the ravaged field, had this conflict taken place anywhere else, there would have been many lives lost in this terrifying display of power. She had been greatly weakened and so had the other princesses been, but Twilight, with the help of her brother was able to stand with her friends and other elements. But Luna had been so used to her natural affinity to magic that being completely drained of it left her unconscious for a while. 

Several minutes passed and finally, Luna saw her sister and the others, unconscious in the ground, with her body slowly evaporating into a golden light. "TIA!" Luna called out as she dove down. Quickly landing by her side and picking up her limp body, she could see her sister waking up.

(If you wanna cry) 

"Luna?" She asked in a quiet and drowsy voice.

"Hush, sister, you are...Gravely wounded." She spoke, with tears dripping down her face.

Celestia looked up at her sister, seeing her cry. "Forgive me sister...For wronging you of happiness."

"Shh, its okay, its okay, you didn't do anything wrong." Luna whispered as she embraced her sister and hold her head close to her chest.

"No it was my fault, if it wasn't for me-" She could barely breath between her breaths as she was halfway crying, but trying to stay strong for her sister. "I should have foreseen it, but I was blinded by the praise of our subjects...But now, you have friends, you have a family and you have son who all love you...I have lived a long and happy life with several generation of virtuous and kind-hearted ponies. Some who I had the luxury to call me closest friends, but I...I have a son and husband that are waiting for me...In the other side." Luna's eyes were blinded by her own tears. She couldn't take another breath as she was desperately trying to withhold from crying out loud. Celestia's body was almost fully gone, only her head remained as her body was turned into golden glowing dust. Her horn started to glow faintly and from it, the darkness of it all vanished. Celestia leaned her head towards the rising sun. "The sky...Its beautiful..." And with that, Celestia closed her eyes. "I was so glad that I could see the sunrise...One last time..." Her voice echoed as her existence faded away, leaving Luna alone, trying to catch the golden energy that levitated up towards the sky... 

"No...Tia, NO!" Luna buried her head in her hooves sobbing as she did, she let out a shriek of pain one the pain finally hit its focal point. The Elements had all woken up in time to see the tragedy, They all looked away, with tears of their own and grief in their hearts.






-Starfall was in no mood to play hide and seek with the ancient spirit again. "What do you want, War?"

The emptiness of Starfall's mind fused to combine a physical form for War, one that looked like Alexander. "I see that our influance has faded and that my brothers hold on you is no longer."

"Yes, I am free from your corruption. I will no longer heed your call, Now BEGONE, before I unleash my wrath!" Starfall spat at the spirit. 

War nodded. "Very well, but know this. You have done nothing to change the outcome our my return, infact I would say that now, you have sealed our return to this world, but for now, I will leave you with this." War touched Starfall's forehead with its finger. "See this as a farewell gift, believe us, it is better to live in the shadow of lies than burn in the radiance of truth!"






Four Days later, Canterlot Castle


An incomprehensible chatter could be heard. Starfall's eyes were drowsily adjusting themselves to the light and he could see movement that he could not make out what it was.

"You guys look, hes waking up!" A feminine voice called.

"Honey, are you alright!?" A blurry dark shape helped him lean up in his bed. 

Starfall's vision started to return to himself, and as it did, a shocking realization hit him. "Who...Who are you...Who am I?" He asked as he stared, terrified at a room filled with ponies that he could not recognize.


End of Act IV

> The Journey Ends
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As the title says.
> Goodbye!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Here is the explanation. A Video instead of a 10k word description.