Twin alicorn children of a human and an alicorn. What could go wrong?
Seven years ago, something hit Equestria. It was an accident. The ship that crashed held a single occupant, and proved to the world that they were not alone. Once informed of the dangers the universe presented, they were quite content to forget about it all, even choosing to ignore where the male alicorn came from.
And now there are two more. And they are a pain in the flank.
Sequel to Five Years Of Ice. (I'm also going to try and keep this one clean-ish.)
“You there, guard!” The stallion looked round, not seeing anypony present, then let his eyes drift to the ground. Standing proudly in front of him was a alicorn colt, barely six years old, with a scowl on his muzzle. He had to keep himself from laughing at how much the colt looked like his father when he did that.
“Yes, young sire, how may I assist you?”
“I demand that you go down to my school, or the hospital, and arrest my teacher! By royal decree, she is to spend the rest of her days in the dungeon!” The stallion's muzzle tried to break into a smile, but he sighed as he looked up, seeing the colt's twin sister trying to hide behind a bush.
“And why would your teacher be in the hospital?”
“She was being a hot head, and she told me it wasn't nice to call ponies something they're not, so I set her mane on fire.” The guard glanced across at the filly, and then shot up straight, standing at attention. “Well, why are you not moving? Go, arrest her!”
“Rising Flame.” The colt's eyes widened, and he slowly turned to look up at the alicorn stallion standing above him, showing how to do the family scowl properly. “Go to your room, I shall fetch your mother and then we will come and talk with you.”
“But father...”
“DO AS YOU ARE TOLD!” Hanging his head low, he turned and entered the castle, trudging to his room, ignoring the stares from the castle staff. They all knew of his temper, and blamed it on his father of course. Back out in the garden, the stallion was lying on the ground in front of some bushes, trying to coax the filly out. “Sapphy, come on. I'm not going to hurt you.”
“But it's scary when you shout. And when mommy shouts. But you both seem so happy when you shout to each other at night. Why can't you be happy shouting now instead of angry?”
“Because... that's happy shouting. Not angry shouting. Now, did you do anything to your teacher?”
“No daddy.”
“Then you have nothing to worry about. Come on sweetie, come out.” A small blue fore hoof appeared, and the stallion pulled gently, easing her out and pulling her into a hug. He placed her on his back, using his wings to steady her. He began to walk away, but not before turning to the guard. “Send somepony down to the hospital to arrange a meeting with their teacher. Hopefully we can smooth this out.”
“Yes, your majesty!”
“And cut that sh... stuff out!” The guard smirked at the stallion. Ever since their children had learnt to speak, Luna had banned Alec from swearing around them. Each time he did, a spell would shock his flank. Sometimes he did it on purpose, and the guards had a pool going to see whether he actually enjoyed it...
Luna trotted out of the court session, eager to see her little angels. It was their first day of school, and she wanted to know how it went. So when she entered their family room of the castle to find Alec and Sky Sapphire eating tubs of ice cream, she knew something was wrong. “Alec?” He just raised a hoof, pointing it to their son's room. Both ponies watched as she trotted in and shut the door. They could hear a hushed conversation, and then... “YOU DID WHAT?? WHAT IN THE NAME OF FAUST CAUSED YOU TO DO THAT?”
There were a few mumbles which could on be Flame. “I DO NOT CARE! IT WAS YOUR FIRST DAY AT SCHOOL, AND YOU ATTACKED YOUR TEACHER!! GO TO BED YOUNG COLT, I DON'T WANT TO HEAR A PEEP OUT OF YOU UNTIL THE MORNING!” She stomped out of the room, snatching Alec's tub away and burying her muzzle in it.
“Daddy, I thought you said mommy shouldn't eat lots of ice cream, otherwise it would go straight to her flanks!” The stallion's face drained of colour as he stared at his wife, eyes wide with worry.
“Sapphy.”
“Yes, mommy?”
“Can you go and play with auntie Celestia for a while?” The filly nodded and galloped out of the room. Luna turned back to Alec and glared at him. “Well, would you care to explain?” Fortunately for the stallion, he was good at using humour to diffuse situations. Unfortunately for him, he often said the wrong thing to Luna.
“I...like big butts and I can not lie?” The filly's abandoned tub was promptly dumped over his head, the sticky treat running through his mane. He waited till it reached the end of his muzzle, where he snaked his tongue out and licked it up, smirking at her. She couldn't remain angry at him, and joined with his laughter, cantering over and assisting him to get clean.
Once they were finished, she lay atop his chest on the couch, held firmly in his forelegs, one of his large wings covering them both. They looked up when they heard a door opening, watching as Flame trotted over with his head hanging low. He sniffed a little and then looked at his parents. “Mommy, daddy... I'm sorry.”
They glanced at each other before Luna put out a fore hoof, letting the colt join them. “It was still wrong of you to do. Tomorrow, you shall find out what happens when one pony harms another. You are going to accompany me to court, where you will witness a trial. Then perhaps you will understand that just because I'm a princess it doesn't give you the right to do what you want. Do you understand me?”
“Yes mommy. I have a question. If you are a princess, then how comes daddy doesn't like being called a prince?” She turned to look at the stallion, who was shaking his head.
“Well, go on then, tell him.”
He gave a sigh, before pulling his son closer. “I wasn't always a pony. In fact, I'm from a long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away. I've always wanted to say that...” Luna placed her wing over his muzzle.
“Alec, focus.” He smiled at her and licked her wing.
“Anyway... my ship crashed here, and at first I... was not very nice to ponies. But they eventually forgave me and did their best to help me settle. My own kind arrived a couple of months later, and I ended up fighting them because they inured your mother.”
“Did you kill them daddy?”
“I wanted to, but you aunt stepped in and stopped me. It was a good thing too, as I don't know when I would've stopped. Your mother and I were on a small break then, and it took that event to show me how much I loved your mother. Not long afterwards I began to change, getting fur over my old body, and growing a horn. This was now my home, so I decided to become one of them. And I haven't looked back. Now, back to bed little guy.”
“Okay daddy, good night. Good night mommy.” Luna bent down a kissed his forehead, both adults laughing at the way his face scrunched up, and then he ran back to his room. Luna rolled back over and nuzzled under Alec's chin.
“Are you sure you want to take him tomorrow?”
“Yes, why?”
“Well, what's tomorrow?”
“'tis the seventeenth day of the eighth month, why?”
“So, nothing special about that day then? Good to know.” Luna sat up on his lap then, kneading her eyebrows at him. And then it hit her.
“Oh! Of course, how could I forget? I guess with Flame it just slipped out of my mind. I am looking forward to it.”
“So am I. Hard to believe it's been seven years.”
“And would you want to trade any of them for anything?”
“Hmm... no. Why would I want to do that? The only time I was a little worried was when Dash pranked us with poison joke. Becoming a mare was a little disturbing, even more so when I discovered your 'extra' equipment.”
“You were not complaining much that night. How did it go again? Something like 'Oh yes Luna, ram it in to me harder!' Yes, that sounded like a lot of distress to me!”
“Meh, I'm open to experimentation. But not that often. In fact, there's a little experiment I would like to try now...” Luna bent down, just out of reach from his muzzle, her hooves pressing against his chest.
“And that is...” His horn sparked once, pushing her past that last gap, bringing her lips to his. They slowly rolled off the couch and on to the floor, where they carried on rolling, until Luna was pinned under him. They pulled apart when the door came open, Celestia trotting in with a sleepy Sky on her back.
“Mommy and daddy are going to happy shout.” Celestia ignored them both and took the filly to her room, putting her to bed. On the way out her horn glowed, magic covering the foal's doors.
“You two were never much for silencing spells, but I am. See you two in the morning.” She left the room, and the two noticed it was covered in the same aura. Luna reached a hoof and wrapped it around his neck, pulling him back down to her. Even after seven years the love in their eyes was still there, and some said it was stronger then ever.
Rising Flame watched the third case with interest. It was a land dispute between two farmers on the outskirts of Manehatten. He was currently looking over both property deeds, trying to see if there were any discrepancies. He may have had a quick temper, but he was clever for his age. The two stallions bared this with a smile, they had watched him come up with a solution to the previous case. “I think I have it, mother.”
“Well then, why don't you tell us Flame?”
“Both of these deeds define the size and shape of land, and they do overlap, but the date stamp is the same. Therefore, it is the fault of the clerk who issued these in Manehatten. He should be punished.”
“Now Flame, that is not what we are here to do. How would you sort this dispute out? Don't think as a adult, think like a child.” He looked at the documents again, and the map that had both properties, an orange area showing where they overlapped.
“Well....why don't they just spilt the land between them and be happy?” Luna smiled and looked to the stallions, both of who's mouths were dropped open at the simple solution.
“Do you both agree?” They looked to each other and nodded. “Then judgement is passed, you will share the land equally between you, and return to the council offices to inform them of the deed changes. You are dismissed.” They bowed low and left the court room, laughing amongst themselves. “So you see my son, an adult doesn't always look at all the options. Now, this next case is going to be interesting.”
She waved her hoof to a guard, who opened the entrance door. “Presenting Miss Lecture, school teacher, who has brought a complaint against the student... Rising Flame.” The entire court erupted with the voice of multiple ponies, most of them in anger at the mare. None seemed to note the bandage around her head.
Back up next to the throne, Flame was shaking lightly, worry in his eyes. “Flame, take your place.” He looked up to see Luna pointing to the defendant's stand, Miss Lecture already taking the plaintiff stand. The colt slowly trudged down the dais, not meeting the gaze of anypony looking to him. He stepped up and looked to his mother, who could see the worry in his eyes. “The court recognise the case of Miss Lecture vs Rising Flame. The accusation is that Master Flame did willingly, and maliciously, set Miss Lecture's mane on fire. Master Flame, how do you plead?”
He swallowed once, wiping the sweat from his forehead with a hoof before finding his voice. “G-g-guilty, your highness.” A murmur spread throughout the chamber, the ponies shocked at his admission. Luna, however was smiling at him.
“I see. Miss Lecture, what do you wish to happen?”
“If I can your majesty, I would like to hear what the punishment for the crime that Master Flame admitted to is first.”
“Well, a thousand years ago, you would have been well within your rights to demand that he suffer the same.” She kept her gaze on Flame as he raised his hooves and covered his mane. “However, times have changed. For the crime of assault, the penalty is six months in the dungeons, but as he has admitted to it, we can lower the sentence to three months.”
“Your majesty...” Lecture stopped talking as the sound of sobbing hit her ears, and she turned with everypony else to see Flame crying his eyes out. She walked out from her stand and trotted over to him, not one hint of emotion on her face. He looked up to her and then dropped his gaze back to the floor. She reached a hoof up and pulled him against her chest. “There, there, it's okay. Your majesty, I believe he has learnt his lesson. Please, I ask you to be lenient in you decision.”
“Both parties will retire whilst we deliberate.” The mare nodded and tried to leave, but Flame was still holding her. “Master Flame, you have to go to a separate area.” The colt said nothing, shaking his head and clinging on even tighter. Luna smiled and walked over to him. “Your sentence, Master Flame, has been reduced. You are grounded for three months.”
Alec was sat on the couch reading the paper whilst Sky played with her dolls. The door suddenly slammed open and the paper was replaced with a bawling colt, who pressed as close to his father as possible. Sky came over and added to the embrace, not sure why her brother was upset. Alec looked up at a sigh, seeing Luna leaning against the door frame. “What happened in there?”
“He was placed on trial for assault.”
“That's a bit... extreme, isn't it? What's wrong with just getting him to apologise?”
“Well, he will certainly not be doing it again, so it worked.”
“I can't say I agree with you, but we'll talk about this tomorrow. The bathrooms all yours, my dear.” Luna nodded and trotted in, setting the shower to a steaming downpour. What Alec had said made sense, it was a little too much to put a young colt on trial, even more so her own son. She kept herself from thinking of it as she washed, before stepping out into the main room to see Alec once more reading the paper.
“Where are the foals?” He didn't look up as he replied.
“Celestia came by and got them for a bit. That way we can both get ready at the same time.” He got up and trotted to the bathroom. Luna expected him to nuzzle her on the way, but he didn't even look at her, and it really hit home what he thought of her actions. She could feel the tears brimming, and wiped them away quickly. Today was supposed to be a happy day, and she had ruined with a bone headed idea.
She entered their room and dried off, sitting in front of her vanity and staring at her reflection. She lost all focus as she reflected in her actions. A wing over her withers shook her back to reality, and she looked into the mirror to see tear streaks down her cheeks. A tissue was floated over in a beige aura and gently wiped them away. She felt a head rest over hers, and she pressed back against her stallion's chest. “I didn't think it would be that bad, I just wanted to show him what would happen if he was older.”
“It's okay Luna, I understand. I just don't think you needed to go that far, just tell him. Now get yourself cleaned up, the reservation is in an hour you know.” She turned her head round and kissed him, silently thanking... somepony that she had been blessed with him. He pulled away and trotted over to his side of the room, entering his closet to get his clothing sorted out. It was then she realised in the time she had been sitting there, he had enough time to wash and dry. Determined not to let her ruin the night any more, she entered her own closet and looked at her dresses.
She heard him leave the room and quickly grabbed her hair brush and a spray bottle in her magic, and sitting in front of the vanity once more, changing her mane style a little. Once satisfied, she teleported her dress on to her and left the bedroom. Alec was sitting on his chair at the desk, and she slowly made her way over. “Alec, are you ready?”
He turned to look at her, mouth dropping open in awe. She giggle and raised a hoof, closing his mouth for him, which turned into a smile. “Yeah, I'm ready. Just got to wait for the foalsitters to turn up.”
“Oh yes, I wonder where they are?” As she said this, there was a knock on the door. Luna opened it with her magic, and Celestia trotted in, looking like she was going to say something, but Alec shook his head at her. The foals ran over and looked up at Luna, Sky staring at her mane whilst Flame smiled at her.
“Wow mommy, you look beautiful.” She bent down and nuzzled him, making him giggle.
“Thank you Flame. Now, are you two going to be good of foals this evening?” They sat in front of her and nodded. “Good. You will probably be asleep when we get back, so we shall say good night now.” She kissed them both on the cheek and trotted over to the door, where a teenage filly had just walked in. “Ah, Scootaloo, you're here. Are the others not with you?”
“Not tonight your highness. Applebloom is on a date with Pip, and Spike's been taken to Sweetie Belle's to 'officially' meet her parents. Poor guy, I feel sorry for him having to run that gauntlet. But I'm not on my own tonight, I got help.”
Before she could ask, another pony trotted through the door. This time it was a colt however, and Luna recognised him from somewhere. He didn't notice the other ponies in the room, trotting over and nuzzling Scootaloo, who blushed in embarrassment. “Hey babe, I got pizza!” A hoof slamming into the floor caused him to look round, staring up at the stallion in the room.
“Scootaloo, I'm disappointed in you. You know the rules.” She looked away from him, slightly upset that he had said this. “And you, young man. I am leaving my children in your care. Can I trust you to stay focused?”
Rumble sat up as straight and tall as possible, looking him in the eyes. “Yes sir, you can count on me.” The stallion got closer, but not once did he flinch or back away, even when their faces were millimetres apart.
“Good. Now then, we should be back by eleven, but in the event we're not, there a some camp beds in that storage closet over there. You are to have one each, is that understood?”
“Alec...”
“That question is for you as well, Scootaloo.”
“Yes, I understand sir.”
“Fine.”
“Then we're sorted. Princess Celestia will be around if you need anything, so just let a guard know. Luna, shall we?” She nodded, and he trotted over to her, wrapping her in a wing as they walked out of the room together.
“Princess Celestia, can I ask you a question, but it maybe a little personal?”
“Rumble, you don't have to call me princess in private, I've told you that before. And yes you may ask.”
“I was just wondering... have you ever considered being married?” She got a far away look in her eye, and blinked away the coming tears.
“I was once, centuries ago. I offered him ascension so he could stay by my side, and do you know what he said?” She had the attention of all four in the room, and they all shook their heads. “He said 'it would be unfair of me to keep you all to myself. Everypony deserves to look upon your beauty.' I have had other partners since then, but none matched him for... anything really.”
She felt four sets of hooves wrap around her legs, and looked down to see them all hugging her. She bent down and wrapped her wings around them. “Thank you. Now, Rumble... how about those pizzas?”
The waiter flapped his wings as he flew up to the cloud table, two plates of fried daisies and hay cakes in his hooves. It was not the usual fare for the restaurant, but one does not refuse a princess their choice. He crested the cloud to see the seats empty, but the occupants were not far away. The music from the open air orchestra was drifting up, and the couple were dancing around the cloud base. He waited until the music stopped, watching as the pair returned to the table, leaning against one another.
The stallion pulled out Luna's chair for her, and sat opposite her. The waiter placed the plates on table, bowing and preparing to take off when the stallion asked for another bottle of wine. He nodded and walked backwards, slipping away from them. They used their magic to eat, holding hooves across the table, staring into each other's eyes as the moon reflected out of them.
“So then Scootaloo, you and Rumble?” She cast her gaze to the bathroom, where said colt was washing the foals before bed.
“Yeah... he's really sweet. Don't tell him I said that!” The glare with which she fixed Celestia made the older mare snicker, and she took another drink of soda. “At first I thought it was just a crush, and tried other seeing how I felt with other colts, but my thoughts kept drifting back to him. And before you ask, I don't think he's quite at the love stage yet.”
“And what about you?”
“Do you have to ask?” Both mares, young and old, giggled, then turned their heads towards the bathroom, where they could hear the sound of giggling. They trotted over and peeked in the door to see Rumble in the bath himself, being forcibly washed by the twins.
“I wish I was old enough to drink. This is a memory that I'd rather much forget.” Celestia smiled and withdrew from the door, whilst Scootaloo continued to watch. “Where's she going?”
“Dunno, but she's got something on her mind.” Before they could continue, and before Rumble could hide is face, Celestia returned with a camera and took a picture. The camera disappeared in a flash, and she smiled sweetly at the colt.
“Perhaps... a little drink is allowed.”
The castle was dark as two ponies trotted towards the gate. The guards immediately tensed up, as the pair were clear tipsy at the least. They relaxed when one strode forward and revealed itself to be Princess Luna, who puffed up her chest. “We, your Princess Of The Night, hath returned. And We would just like to say... spunk bubble.” The guards stared back at her, unsure of what to do, when she pitched forward and almost face planted the floor if not for the quick reactions of the unicorn stationed there.
The other pony came forward and wobbly leant down to Luna's face. “Hey, you're lying at a weird angle. Let me help.” He nudged her side, causing her to topple over, but she shot put a hoof and pulled him with her, ending up in a pile of giggling limbs, and they quickly began to think they were in their room, until one of the guards cleared his throat. “Oh... we've got guests. Be with you in a minute, just having a nibble.” He proceeded to stick one of Luna's ears in his mouth and bite down on it, causing her to gasp out in pleasure.
“Sir, perhaps it would be best if you retire to your chambers for the evening?” He looked around once, and then shakily got to his hooves. He turned to help Luna, but she had other ideas, jumping up and laying across his back, forelegs wrapped around his neck and her rear legs hanging over his flanks. One of the guards trotted alongside them, ensuring that they got to their destination safely.
Once there he opened the door for them, guiding them around the pile of ponies on the floor, and to their room. He watched as the moments of passion were replaced with the sound of snoring from the pair. Chuckling as he left, he paused a moment to cover the teenage filly and colt cuddled up on the couch with a blanket, a quick check on Celestia and the foals, then returned to his station.
All was well in the castle that night... but the morning would soon be here, and it was time for another two foals to join the others...
Celestia met the groan coming from the master bedroom with a smile, turning to see Alec trotting out with a wing over his face. He made for the bathroom and she heard the shower go on, followed by a satisfied sigh. Luna followed moments later, heading to the kitchen and returning with a steaming cup of coffee. She sat down in a plush chair and smiled to her sister, who had Flame and Sky wrapped with in her wings still. “Good morning Tia. Were they good last night?”
“Very, much more subdued than usual, but I think nothing needs to be said on that. Flame missed you last night, he awoke from a terrible nightmare early this morning, and it took a while for me to calm him down.”
“I see, I'll have a talk with him later. Don't you think we should move those two, before Alec sees?”
“Before I see what?” Luna looked over to the bathroom door, seeing him stood there with a wet mane. He trotted over to the sofa and scowled at the pair still quite content to stay asleep. That is, until he knocked it with a hoof. Scootaloo slowly came awake and stretched out, nudging Rumble awake too. He nuzzled into the back of her neck before opening his eyes, and then wished he remained asleep. “What did I say last night?”
“S-s-s-separate beds, sir.”
“And what am I seeing now?”
“Well, technically... we're not on a bed, we're on a couch, sir.” Amusement played across both Luna and Celestia's muzzles as Alec stared at Rumble, eyes narrowed.
“I haven't had my coffee yet, and I don't like coffee. Do you enjoy being a smart arse?”
“No, sir.” Before he could reply, Alec was bundled to the floor by two giggling fillies. They both stood atop him triumphantly, large grins on their faces. One had a light rose coat, with a light blonde mane that had a lavender streak running through it, right to her tail. The other was a pale cerulean pegasus, with a two tone purple and light grey mane and tail. There was a grumble from the pile of limbs underneath them.
“Gala Sparkle, you git your flank back 'ere. It ain't nice to do that t' ponies this early in t' mornin'.” She trotted over and stood between her father's forelegs, smiling at everypony present. “Rainbow, don't y'all think you should do t' same?”
“Nah, Prism's fine where she is.” The filly smiled with glee, then started jumping up and down on the groaning stallion's back. She wasn't harming him, but it was bloody annoying.
“Please stop bouncing on me.” The filly paused, craning her neck down, and that's when he struck. Flipping over, his hooves darted for her ribs, causing her to laugh uncontrollably. Two heads popped out sleepily from Celestia's wings, took one look, and jump at the stallion, pushing him to the floor. Gala looked up her father with pleading eyes, and he rolled the stalk of hay from one corner to the other and back, then looked down and nodded.
“Eeyup.” With a squee she shot forward, adding her hooves to the other three pairs, rubbing over his ribs and causing him to chuckle. Alec rolled over and lit his horn, smirking at the foals, who backed away with smiles. He let the spell go, sending a small jolt of electricity through them, causing them to roll around on the floor laughing as it tickled their bodies all over.
Luna and Celestia watched from where they were sitting, smiling at their antics. After a few minutes they calmed down, and sat down for breakfast, Alec cooking. He preferred it, saying that it made him feel useful, despite his 'job' of going around and fixing things. He didn't get paid for it, but he felt like he needed to do something.
And then came the hard part. They had planned a day out with their friends, taking the foals with them, but Flame was grounded. He knew this as well, and the way his head dropped made Luna's heart melt. But she was the one who made the decision, so she couldn't change it. A firm hoof to the floor only reinforced her position. “Rising Flame, you'll have to stay here son. I agree with your mother's punishment. So you be good for your aunt Celestia toady, understand?”
Flame looked up and caught his father's wink, and it took all his willpower not to smile. He kept up his expression until the others had left, leaving him with Celestia and the two teenagers. With a nod of her head she left the room, the children following. They trotted through the castle until they entered the kitchen, where Celestia opened the desert freezer, revealing a range of ice creams. “So... which flavour first?”
Two stallions, three mares and two foals lay in the park just outside of the castle grounds, watching as the two pegasi danced through the sparse clouds that dotted the sky. Twilight was leaning against Big Mac's side, reading to her daughter and Sky from a foals book, not noticing that they had fallen asleep. The other ponies inhabiting the area were just happy to watch the Wonderbolt's star couple practice for free.
Luna looked around from the blanket she she was seated upon, smiling as she looked over towards the play area, the sandpit in particular. She could just make out the tip of Alec's head, his body having been buried by the foals... and Rainbow Dash. She returned her attention to the couple on the other side of her. “So then, Mr Apple, when is the wedding?”
Out of the circle of seven couples, there was one that yet remained unmarried, and the butter coated pegasus in the stallion's arms blushed at the question, clashing with his soft smile. “Well, ah'm not sure jus' yet, your majesty. Ah only jus' asked Mrs Fluttershy here to be mah wife, an' ah don't wanna push her. It'll be when she's ready, an' no sooner.” Braeburn moved down and nuzzled the back of her head, causing her to squeak in embarrassment at his public display of affection, even if nopony was looking.
The sound of a strained grunt drew their attention to the pegasus that was coming in to land, but her flight was a little wobbly. All of a sudden Dash's wings snapped to her side and she fell the last few feet to the ground, rolling to the side as if to avoid hitting her stomach. Soarin was instantly by her side, as were her friends. Prism was on Soarin's back, so she was right there, hooves wrapped around her mother's neck. “Daddy, is mommy going to be oaky?”
He gave her a once over, pulling out her wings to make sure there were not damaged. “She seems fine, honey. In fact, the last time she crashed like this, she was preg...” He slowly lowered his gaze to Dash's face, mouth remaining open. She managed a sitting up position, and squeezed between his fore hooves.
“Yes. Prism, come here a moment.” She plopped down in front of her parents, clear confusion on her face. “How would you like a little brother or sister?”
“I can choose? Well, a sister.” All the adults started to laugh, as she had clearly not understood the question. “What? She asked if I wanted one, and I chose! I want a sister.” Soarin let go of Dash and gathered the filly to his chest.
“It doesn't work like that. What your mother means is... you are going to get one, by we can't choose whether it will be a colt or a filly. We'll just have to wait a few months to find out.”
“But why can't we choose?”
“Because it's not like we go to the shops and buy one. Right now, your sibling is growing inside mommy's tummy, and has been there for...” He looked up and counted the number of feathers sticking out from Dash's right wing. “...two months? Why didn't you say anything sooner?”
“I... just thought I was getting fat. But look on the bright side, you can get a lot of AJ's pies now!”
“Hmm, AJ's pies or Caramel's cider?”
“Oh hay no! If I'm not drinking you are not drinking!” She met his smirk with a glare. “The amount of times you can back trashed when you should have been at home looking after me is still something you have to make up for! Besides, it's AJ's cider, just branded by Caramel.”
“Is there anything that mare can't do?” Dropping her glare for a sultry smile, she swayed over and brushed her wings across his muzzle, flicking her tail and wiggling her hips.
“Well for starters, she not as... nimble as I am... plus I know just what to do with wings...” That was it, he lost all self control as his wings snapped open, causing all the others to start laughing. And then there was the flash of a camera, which caused them all to whip round to see a reporter eyeing them eagerly. There was another flash from behind the mare as Alec appeared, glaring down at her.
“You can wait until it is official. Nopony is going to say anything until they release it. Is that understood?” She was cowering low to the ground beneath his gaze, but Rainbow trotted over and got between them.
“Dude, relax. This is High Speed, she's the official Wonderbolt's photographer. She wouldn't allow it to get out due to the fact she's not allowed to. It's in her contract.” She turned away from him and pulled the other pegasus to her hooves. “Easy now, he won't bite. Luna would kill him. Let me guess, a 'day off for the Wonderbolts' special again?”
“Yeah, Captain Fire ordered me to get one, she wants you guys on the front page this time.”
“First off, she's only 'captain' when she's at work, so that can be dropped. Secondly, she didn't 'order' you to do it, she asked... firmly. Thirdly, we're going to be on the front page again? Awesome!”
“If I may, Mrs Smokestack, could I get a photo of all your friends?”
“Do you have to use that name in public? But yeah, sure. Come on everypony, group shot!” They all gathered back in front of the blanket, and were made to line up. Then High Speed positioned the stallions, with Mac in the middle. To his right were Alec and Braeburn, and to his left was Soarin. Next came the mares, each wrapping themselves in their partners hooves, and then doing the same with their foals.
Luna felt a little upset the Flame wasn't here to join in, but that was his own fault. She smiled as best she could and the photographer got ready, but put the camera down as she stared at Alec. “Uh, you need to look this way your majesty, or we won't be able to see you.” He said nothing, which gave Luna cause for concern. He always said something about that.
She attempted a nuzzle against his cheek, but not even his ears twitched. Now she was really getting worried, and it was moving onto Sky. “Alec, what is wrong?”
“Can you hear it?” Luna closed her eyes and concentrated, and slowly the sound of rhythmic clanking hit her ears. “I think we should know what that is, as I remember hearing something like it before.” Luna had to agree. She had heard something like it several years ago, but she couldn't remember at all. She raised a hoof and turned his face back to the camera.
“Whatever it is, it can be forgotten for now. Come, give us a smile.” He did as asked, but his ears stayed alert for danger. Speed got into position again, ready to take the shot when it got a little darker. She promptly ignored this, as her camera had a flash on it, but Alec and Luna looked up to see what it was.
“Oh, son of a bitch.” She took the photo just as the water bombs exploded on the targets.
Rising Flame watched through the telescope as the munitions rained down on his parents, snickering with glee. And yet there was a longing to be out there with them. Auntie Celestia was nice, sure, but the ones he was looking at were his parents. He should be down there with them. Rearing up, he slammed his fore hooves on the balcony floor, knocking the telescope over. A white wing draped over his back and pulled him close. “Calm yourself, young one. Trust me, they are feeling the same way. I'll tell you what, why don't I talk to Luna later, see if I can get your 'sentence' reduced even more?”
He looked up at her with hopeful eyes, meeting that kind smile. “Really? You'd do that for me?” She nodded gently. “Thank you, but I shall face my punishment to the full. To do otherwise would make it meaningless.” Before Celestia could reply, a shimmering orange portal appeared in front of her. And then a pile of cakes came flying out of it, making a complete mess of their coats.
“It would seem that your father is trying to annoy me... again. Come, let's get Scootaloo and Rumble to reload. Have you seen the pictures of him pink?”
“Of who pink?”
“Why, your wonderful daddy of course.”
“No, I haven't even heard of that.”
“Well toady's your lucky day!” She levitated him on to her back and flew one level up, looking around for the teenagers. She was about to give up hope when a certain... noise came from the other side of the cannon. “Cover your ears, Flame.” He did as instructed, confused as to what was going on. “Scootaloo, I hope you are not doing what I think you are round there...”
The sound of commotion hit her ears, and there was a hushed conversation that she couldn't quite make out, then Scootaloo appeared, mane all over the place and her feathers ruffled. She offered up a sheepish smile, before averting her gaze. “And where is Rumble?”
“He, uh... needs a minute.”
“Well, whilst he... calms down, can you please load up the paint rounds.” Scootaloo's face turned into a massive grin, and she shot over to the storage lockers, carefully picking the packages up and flying them up to the bucket. A couple of moments later Rumble appeared, a towel draped over his flanks, effectively covering his lower half. “Ah, there you are young colt. Did you have fun?”
“Oh, yeah, it was awes..., ahem, I don't know what you are talking about, your highness. So, what's the target this time?”
“Exact same place, if you will.” He nodded and got to work putting tension on the ropes. Celestia checked it over once, making sure that the aim was still on the park. She turned to Flame and ushered him forward, motioning him to now uncover his ears. “Would you like to do this one?”
“Can I really? That'd be awesome! But... won't mommy punish me more?”
“If you want, just blame Scootaloo.”
“Hey!”
“Okay!” With that he jumped up and kicked the lever, sending the bombs flying. They watched as they flew up and over the castle walls, and then dropped below them. After a few moments they started giggling as a loud shout hit their ears.
“CELESTIA, FOR FUCOOOOWWWWW!!!!”
Rising Flame stood stock still in the middle of the office. He had never been in here before, and the way his father glared at him made him all the more scared. Of course, the fact he was now covered in pink paint clashed with that, and he was doing his best to stop laughing. “Flame, come here.” He trotted forward and jumped into the chair, meeting the stern gaze.
“Yes, father?”
“Why did you blame Scootaloo for this?”
“...Celestia told me to.”
“Speak up colt.”
“Celestia told me to do it.”
“As I thought. For you punishment, I wish you to deliver this cake to your aunt. Make sure you come straight back, okay?”
“Is that all father?” Alec's muzzle turned into a dangerous smile, and he placed his hooves together in front of his face, leaning his elbows on the table. It was the classic evil genius pose.
“Oh yes, that is all. And then head home, it's almost time for dinner.” Flame jumped down and slid the cake on to his back, leaving the room and trotted down the halls carefully. After asking a passing guard where he could find his aunt, he headed towards the throne room. She was in a meeting with a griffon ambassador that wasn't from the main griffon empire. He was there to negotiate passage to the ancestral homelands.
They both looked up as the doors opened, and Flame came through. Celestia's mouth started to water when she saw what was on his back, a rich fruit cake, topped with strawberries, jam, and edged by copious amounts of whipped cream. He approached the dais and bowed carefully. “Auntie Celly, I've brought you a present.”
Using her magic, she lifted it up to the table between her and the ambassador, setting it down. “Thank you Flame, would you like some?”
“No thank you, I haven't had my dinner yet.”
“Very well, run along.” He bowed once more and ran for the door, pushing it not quite closed so he could watch the chaos unfold. Back at the throne, Celestia levitated a knife and cut two slices, giving on to the ambassador. “Such a sweet colt. It was nice of him to deliver this cake.” She took a nibble, giving a pleased moan as the taste graced her tongue.
And then the rest of the cake promptly exploded, covering the area. Celestia blinked to clear her eyes, looking down at the plate where the words 'the cake is a lie' had formed. “That motherbucoow!!” She rubbed her flank, it feeling slightly numb. It felt like someone had giving her a little shock. “What the bucoow!” There it was again. And then she realised why the cake tasted so good. It was the same way Luna got the anti swearing spell to work on Alec. And now he was teaching his son how to prank her. It was time to start spending time with Sky Sapphire, and teach her the ways of the troll.
“Sky, that is your father.” She looked at the photo again, staring in to the eyes.
“Why does he look like that?”
“That is his natural form. He is... was what is known as a human. From what he told, and showed us, they are very violent by nature. His world was ravaged by war a millennia ago, and he, by some happy chance, managed to survive it.”
“Then why is he now a pony?” Lots of questions were coming from the filly, but Flame sat there absorbing it all.
“That is the easy part. He chose to remain here with me instead of going with his own kind. It was a few months after they left that he decided to be like us, and he proposed soon after.” Luna ran a hoof over the picture, smiling fondly. “I used some magic to help him settle before he became a pony. I... looked like him. Would you like to see?”
“Yes please.” She got up and trotted in to her closet, a blue glow emerging. After a few moments she retuned, standing proud, wearing a short white dress.. Until she tried to walk and fell to the floor in a fit of giggles. “Mommy?” She looked up to see Sky with a concerned look on her face, lifting up a hand and placing it on her cheek.
“I am fine, Sapphy, it's just been a while since I walked on two legs.” She got back up and walked back into the closet, returning to normal after a blue glow. “So you see, his transition into staying was easy.”
“Mother?” Luna walked over and sat down on the couch, pulling Flame closer and motioning Sky to the other side of her. “How did you and father meet?”
“Oh, now there's a tale! Let's see... your father had been on our world for almost a week, and spent the first four days completely out of it. It was on the sixth or seven day when your foalsitters saw him. They decided he was a 'monster', and they were going to catch him. Unfortunately, it ended with him at the bottom of some stairs with a spear in his back.”
“How did he survive?”
“Me. I used the liquid healing spell on him, and he had enhanced abilities from a surgical procedure on his world. At first we didn't understand it, but magic was actually making him use his more primal instincts. And then we had our... first real meeting.”
Sky giggled at the way Luna's cheeks turned pink, and a voice from the door way made them snap their heads around. “Let's see if I remember this part correctly, it's still a little hazy. I jumped at you, we rolled along the floor, and I came back to my full senses in a position like this...” The foals had seen that look on his face before, and moved away from their mother.
“Like what exactly, Alec?” He waited until they were clear and then jumped at her, causing them to roll across the carpet. Once they finished, Luna was on her belly with Alec leaning on her back. He lowered his muzzle and slowly kissed his way up her neck, making her squirm and causing the foals to laugh. Luna rolled over and pulled him closer, their lips meeting each other by the light of a fire. She felt her wings start to unfurl, but then stopped. “Alec... the foals are still awake... and watching.”
“uh... yeah, maybe once they've gone to bed. Speaking of which, shouldn't it have bed time twenty minutes ago?”
“They wanted to wait for you, it is your turn to read to them.” He nodded and stood, walking over to the bookshelf.
“Okay then kids, what shall we have tonight?” Flame ran into his room and came out carrying a book.
“Uncle D got me this one!” Alec took it and read the title, before running out to the balcony. Luna grabbed the book in her magic, floating it over. Her cheeks resumed their blush as she read the title... Fifty Shades Of Hay.
“DISCORD, WHEN I CATCH YOU, YOU'LL WISH YOU HAD STAYED ON EARTH YOU MOTHERFUCOOOWWWW!!!”
He crept along the bottom of the castle walls, keeping to the shadows. This had taken seven years to plan, and tonight it would come to fruition. By the morning he would have what belonged to him, and the one who stole her away would lose everything he had. Pausing in the dark to let some guards pass, he spread his wings and flew up to the tower marked with a crescent moon.
Cracking open the balcony door slowly as not to wake anypony up, he made sure the coast was clear and entered. There were multiple doors to the sides, but the ones he was interested in were at the back and either side of the door marked with a shield and moon sigil. He tried the right one first, but found what was clearly a colt's room empty. Trying the other, he found a quietly snoring filly. The colt must have been in with the parents, and there was no chance in Hay he could take on two adult alicorns, let alone one.
Working quickly and silently, he bound and gagged the sleeping child. It was fortunate for him she was a heavy sleeper, as she didn't even stir when he slipped her into his saddlebag. He left via her window, not wanting to risk being seen in the main room, and took off into the night, leaving a note on the bed.
Luna was jolted from her sleep upon Alec's chest as he shot up, eyeing the room franticly, horn alight. She looked around but found nothing, placing a hoof on his shoulder. “Something's not right. I don't know what... just a feeling.”
She lay back down and gave him a tug, pulling him into his embrace. “Be still, it will pass. Flame is with Celestia, and Sky is next door. There is nothing to worry about. Come, back to sleep.” He nuzzled against her cheek and became still, but a moment later shot out of the room. Luna sighed and turned the lights on with her magic. She followed slowly but sped up when she heard a shout from the next room.
“GUARDS!” Upon entering she found Alec with a piece of paper floating in front of him, the bed empty and the window open. “Luna, what the fuck is the all about?” He sent it her way, and she took her time to read it.
To Princess Luna,
I have your daughter, and will be keeping a hold of her until my demands are met. You are to get a divorce so that you can be with your true love. Me. I have loved you since the dawn of time, and will until the end. For each day that you refuse, I will sent a part of your daughter to you. If you don't believe me, look on the balcony.
She dropped her attention from the letter to see Alec standing there holding a piece of Sky's tail to his chest. She carried on reading.
By now you can see I am serious, and have no reservations. The next piece won't be something so simple... maybe a wing? I await to hear the glorious news of your separation, and then she shall be returned unharmed to her... father.
Love, Your one true love.
“Luna, what are you not telling me?” She swallowed nervously, not having told him about this “Is... there another? How long have you been seeing him?” She remained silent, not meeting his piercing gaze. “ANSWER ME WOMAN!” She trotted over and wrapped her forelegs around his neck, sobbing quietly. She could forgive his accusations given the circumstances.
“N-n-no, there is no o-o-other. In the p-p-past two years I-i-i-i have been receiving... l-l-l-love notes from an anonymous pony. I kept them hidden, thinking they were from you, but the past few months the writer has steadily gone insane. Alec, I love you and that will never change.” By now the guards had entered, read the note, and had roused every member to search the castle and the city.
One of the Lunar guard approached, unease playing across his face. “Your majesties, I apologise for this failure. They should never have gotten this far, and I accept all blame and punishment you decree.” He bowed low to the ground, removing his helmet. By now Luna was to overcome to speak, sinking against Alec's chest, who stood there unmoving. Even though his voice was soft, they could hear the anger laced within it.
“Rise Colonel, there is nothing you could have done. Is there anything else?”
“Yes sir, I... recognised the hoof writing. Princess, do you remember the guard when you returned to us that tried to...um... well, you know...”
“You mean the one that almost raped us? I will never forget his face, why?”
“This is his writing.” She felt Alec begin to shake with anger then. First his daughter is kidnapped, and then he finds out that it was the pony that tried to rape his wife, even if it was before he knew her. He pulled away from Luna and returned to their room, she was about to follow when a small blue blur attached itself to her foreleg.
“Mommy, what's going on? Auntie Celly said Sapphy was in danger!” She bent down and nuzzled his cheek quietly reassuring him it would be fine. A pained grunt drew her attention to the master bedroom, where a furry hand gripped the door frame. The owner soon followed, flexing his fingers in to fists. Flame ran over and stood in front of... it, staring into it's eyes. “D-d-d-daddy?”
He looked down and picked the colt up, holding him to his chest. “Yes Flame. Now listen, I need you to be strong for your mother okay? She's going to need you. Can you do that for me?” Flame nodded and was squeezed once before being set down. He totted over to Luna and sat in front of her, letting her forelegs hold him close.
“Alec, what are you going to do?” He looked to the guard that had spoken to them moments before.
“I assume that you have his current address on file?” The guard nodded. Alec walked over the the storage closet and pulled out a locked trunk, using his magic to open it. He pulled out a long silver knife, holding up to his face to inspect it.
“Alec...”
“First, I'm going to find out where my daughter is. Then I'm going to make him suffer.” Luna had seen that look of determination before, and knew nothing would stop him. A guard ran in and hoofed him a piece of parchment, and then he ran to the balcony and flew away. Luna looked down as she heard a sniff.
“Cry not Flame, he will bring Sapphy home to us.”
“WHERES MY MOMMY? I WANT MY MOMMY! AND MY DADDY! TAKE ME TO THEM NOW!”
“WILL YOU SHUT UP! I CAN'T THINK CLEARLY WITH YOUR INCESSANT BAWLING!” The filly in the cell began crying, testing the stallion's patience. She couldn't go anywhere, as he had restrained her wings and put a magic blocking ring in her horn. He was beginning to think assassination would have just been easier. The crying continued and got louder, the stallion finally have enough. “FINE!! If you want to scream and shout go ahead! Nopony will hear you down here!”
He got up from the desk and made his way to the door, turning the lights off. The last little bit filtered in, and the filly's quiet voice hit his ears. “No, please don't shut me in! Please, I don't want to...” The rest of her speech was muffled by the thick door, and he turned around, leaving through another one. Who knew that two thick doors all but made the noise from his basement silent?
He ascended the steps and went to his porch, smiling as the first sun's rays crested the horizon. He could just make out the tallest tower of Canterlot Castle glistening in the morning, and he began to snicker with glee. Luna would never allow her daughter to come to harm, and by the time the sun had crossed the dessert, she would be his!
He fell silent as he heard a thud hit his roof, moving around up there. Quietly making his way back inside, he locked the door and stood near a window, watching for any sign of his visitor. There was nothing, so he began to relax. He moved back in to the hall way but stopped when he heard the door rattle, somepony attempting to enter. And then he heard a male voice. “He he, always wanted to try this... FUS RO DAH!”
The door blew off it's hinges, narrowly missing the stallion's head. Stood there framed by the sun was bipedal creature with both wing and a horn. The stallion immediately turned and ran out the back of the house, taking to the air. How could they find him so fast? Unless... one of his old squad had ratted him out! A quick glance behind him showed his follower, who was easily catching up. He pumped his wings faster, but something grabbed him by the hoof and swung him back towards the ground.
He spied an orange light behind him, but couldn't react before he entered it. Then he saw a blue light in front of him before something impacted his back, breaking bones. He fell towards the ground in pain, but was caught a few feet above it and dropped the rest of the way, hitting dirt with a pained 'oof'. He was rolled over and looked in the very face of Tartarus itself. “Where. Is. My. Daughter?”
He started to laugh, and got a kick to his stomach for it. “Y-y-you're too late! You shouldn't have f-f-follwed me!” Before anything more could be said, the house exploded in a massive ball of fire. The stallion was left alone as the other ran towards the ruins.
“SAPPHY!!!”
Down in the basement, the filly was covering her ears form the explosion. The ceiling had collapsed, and there were burning rafters all over the place, and the smoke was starting to choke her. And then she heard the shouting. “Sky Sapphire, call out to me! Come on honey, daddy's here!”
“DADDY! I'M DOWN HERE!” Something dropped through a hole, looking around. “OVER HERE DADDY!” It came closer, but it wasn't her father. “No, stay back! Leave me alone!”
“Sapphy...”
“Daddy?”
“Stay still, I'll get you out of there!” His arms came up and gripped the bars, pulling them apart. His arm came through and grabbed her, pulling her out. He held her to his chest as he flapped his wings, escaping through a hole. The ex guard continued crawling away from the ruins. Even if it didn't go to plan, he was now out of the way, and once he was healed could begin to court Luna. His fore hoof went out to grip more sand, but he looked forward to see it resting on a boot. Raising his gaze, he saw him standing in the way, the filly scowling down at him from where she rested on the shoulder. “Too late, am I? What do you think we should do with him, Sapphy?”
“Take him to mommy.”
“Sound like a good idea.” The last thing the stallion saw before the darkness came was a fist coming towards his face.
Shift change in the barracks, like with most military organisations, is full of banter and jibes passed among friends. When you trust somepony with your life, it's just the way things are. You lose a friend, you raise a drink to them, then make jokes about them. Such is the way of military life. But sometimes, one slips through the net who proves to not be worthy of such trust. And when you fail to bring the proper justice for the one you serve, there is always that part of you that wants revenge.
So when you are just about to get your head down and a flash draws your attention to centre of the room, you can't help but want to tell whomever it is to buck off. Such was the thought of the Lunar Guard Captain as he sat up in his bed, ready to give the pony a tongue lashing they would certainly remember. Instead his mouth remained open, staring at the pile on the floor. It couldn't be him. “Captain.” He raised his head to meet the gaze of the alicorn standing before him. “Make sure his wounds are healed and he looks presentable. He is your responsibility now.”
“Yes sir.” His eyes roamed across the other stallion's back, seeing the sleepy filly on top. “You found her?” A nod. “Is she... hurt?” A shake of a head followed by a tired smile. Alec wasn't a natural alicorn, and unlike Celestia or Luna, needed his rest. “Good. Why don't you head to bed sir, you look bucked.” The captain got up and guided him to the door, ushering him out gently. When he turned the other guards had crept forward, scowls on their faces as they looked at the pony lying on the floor.
“Is it him?”
“What should we do?”
“Kill him?”
“At least beat the hay out of him.”
“ENOUGH!” They all whipped their faces up to the captain's stern gaze. “We are to treat his wounds and make him look presentable.” There was a chorus of groans, and a few mumbles from the disgruntled guards. “But first... geld him.” There was a flurry of motion as the guards scramble to be the first to find a doctor or nurse to perform the operation.
Luna lay awake, running her hoof through Rising Flame's mane. The colt had only just gone to sleep, and she didn't want to do anything to disturb him. This was negated as the door swung open lightly and Alec's weary muzzle appeared. She jumped up and ran over, looking for signs of Sky Sapphire. He lowered his wings to reveal the snoozing filly, who was promptly snatched into a tight hug, causing her to awaken. “Mommy?”
Flame shook of the disorientation of being thrown from the couch, looking to the three ponies standing at the door. It took a few moments for what was going on to register, but when it did he shot forward, hugging his sister as well. Luna wiped the tears from her eyes as they all made their way into the master bedroom.
Alec lay down first, then Luna to his side, both of their forelegs wrapped around their children. They smiled softly to each other as the foals fell back asleep, grateful for a lie in. Luna raised a hoof and stroked Alec's cheek, watching as his eyes started to flutter closed. “I knew you would bring her home. Pray tell, where is he?”
“Lunar Guard barracks. Told them to treat his wounds and make him presentable.”
“Oh... that will be after...” the way she trailed off made him open his eyes and arch an eyebrow at him, bidding her to continue. She took a deep breath and looked him in the eye. “He escaped before he could have the punishment for his crime, and we were quite content to let him be, as long as he didn't buck up. But now, that punishment will be carried out.”
“I assume you mean punishment for...” He glanced down to make sure the foals were asleep, and not listening. Flames ear twitched, which was a sign he was waiting for more. Alec shook his head before continuing. “...his actions concerning you?”
“Yes, that is what I mean.”
“So... what's going to happen to him?”
“The same thing that happen to all stallions who are caught, whether attempting or if having been proven guilty of doing so. He will be gelded.” His face turned into a look of horror, eyes wide with shock.
“As in... snippity do dah?”
“If you mean having his balls cut off, then yes.”
“That's just... not right. But, I see where you are coming from. I was going to kill him there and then, but Sapphy said to bring him to you. I guess you're the disciplinarian in this relationship.” She leant forward and kissed him roughly, biting his lip as she pulled away.
“And you know you enjoy it. But alas, this one shall be left to Tia. She came up with the laws governing such acts, and she will be the decider of the punishment. Now come, you need to rest. And a certain little colt needs to stop listening to conversations that don't involve him.” Flame rolled away from Luna and faced his dad, a 'uh oh, I've been caught' look upon his face. Alec didn't give anything away as he pulled both Flame and Sky closer, holding them firmly.
“Don't worry, it won't happen again.”
Celestia stationed the two guards outside of the doors, slipping silently into the office. She sat in the chair behind the desk, looking at the communication terminal. With a flash of her horn Twilight's translation notes from her first conversation with Alec appeared, and she set it down next to the keyboard, using her magic to punch letters in. A moment later the screen started to flicker, before it revealed a woman on the other end, hastily covering up another male of the species. She quickly brushed her hair out of her face and turned to the screen. “Who the fuc... Oh, um, hello Celestia. How have you been?”
“Hello Sarah, I have been better. I have a favour to ask of you.”
A hand came up and started rubbing her shoulder, before a man's head appeared, kissing her neck. He then looked at the screen. “Sarah, was ist this?”
“Not now, Klaus, this is important. Sorry your highness, please go on.”
“Last night, an attempt was made to kidnap Sky Sapphire, Alec's foal. He got her back and managed to apprehend the criminal as well. It turns out to be a stallion that tried to... rape Luna before Alec arrived. I have already decided his punishment, but for that I will need your assistance.”
“I thought for sure he'd be dead if Alec caught up to him.”
“He almost was, and has a few broken bones. But no, he will die, just not on Equestria. I want him to experience true torment before that, so he knows what they went through when they discovered Sky was missing. I want him to die... on Earth.”
“On... Terra? That's... Celestia, that is more than torment.”
“Good, what is the fastest way to get him there?”
“Sarah, was ist going on?” Celestia watched as Sarah gave a sigh before turning to Klaus.
“Remember that mission to the Chaos Region? This is what we found, and my great uncle Alec, who we went to rescue, now lives there as one of them. He is happily married with two children. And last night someone who tried to rape his wife kidnapped his daughter. She wants him to be sent to Terra.”
Nothing was said as the man digested the information, before he turned his attention to the screen. “Your Majesty, Ich can have a ship there in drei days.” He held up three fingers to make sure she understood. “Ist that gut enough?”
Celestia closed her eyes to think for a moment, ignoring the hushed conversation on the other end. “I think... that is acceptable. It gives him and his former friends enough time to get... 'reacquainted.' Thank you sir, this is more than I can have ever imagined.”
“Perhaps he didn't tell you, but Luckes is a Deutsch name. It is mein duty to help.”
“Very well, I'll see you in three days. Will you be coming too, Sarah?”
“You bet, I want to see his foals!”
“Excellent, I shall keep it a surprise for him. Until then... keep the noise down.” She grinned as they smiled sheepishly at her and cut the connection. She lit her horn, using a special type of magic. Sure enough, Discord appeared, drawn by the chaos. “Good, you are here. I need you to do something for me.”
“Really Celestia? I thought you were over me!” She kept a straight face and ignored the jibe, now was not the time for jokes.
“I am, but this is not that kind of favour. In three days a human ship will be arriving to our region of space as per my request. I want you to make sure they get here.”
“Why would you want more of them here?”
“Because they are doing something for Alec. Would you want to make him angry at the moment?” Discord scratched his beard as he thought back to a few years ago, when he had turned the royal foals into chickens. And then he remembered the pain.
“Human vessel, three days. Make sure they arrive, and don't piss Alec off. Anything else? Maybe a kiss for old time's sake?” He leant forward with pursed lips, but after a flash of light found himself kissing the flank of a statue of Twilight Sparkle, causing the guards to start bawling with laughter. He looked up to the tower where he could just make out Celestia looking over the balcony. “So, playing hard to get? I like where this is going.”
Warding Spear staggered back from another blow, spitting out teeth and blood. There was a doctor standing by, healing the wounds on the outside, but otherwise letting the guards go to work on him. He wobbly stood to his hooves, when a Lunar mare walked forward slowly. He dropped his gaze to the floor, avoiding eye contact with his ex-fillyfriend. He felt a hoof lift his face, forcing his eyes to meet hers.
She promptly turned around and bucked him in the chest, sending him into the wall and causing more blood to spew forth from his mouth. The doctor came over and swept him with his horn, then motioned to two orderlies waiting outside. He turned back to address the guards. “Playtime's over. He's got too many internal injuries for this to continue.” He gave a quick scowl over his shoulder. “Maybe you might get him a bit later.”
They trotted out with him on a stretcher, passing Celestia as she entered. She took one look at the blood stains and averted her gaze, focusing on the Lunar Captain. “That will be enough. Tomorrow his trial starts, and I wish for you all to be present. So get some rest, as I will be calling you forth as you are really the only ones who know him.” She turned her head and stared at the mare trying to sneak out of the door. “And you will need to be there as well. I need all the character witnesses I can get.”
“Yes, your majesty. But I'd rather not be there.” Celestia looked round at all the disappointed and angry faces of the guards.
“His fate has already been decided, this trial is just for show. In three days, he will learn the consequences of his actions.”
Trial Day One...
“All rise for her royal highness, Princess Celestia.” All ponies got to their hooves as she entered, taking her place on her throne at the top of the dais. She looked over the crowd once, full of Canterlot nobles, the one's who's opinions apparently mattered. They had tried to find his family, but of those alive, none wanted anything to do with him. Especially after they heard why they were sought out, his own mother asking to be the one to kill him.
“Be seated, and bring him in.” The ponies did as asked, and the doors at the far end opened, allowing a shackled stallion and his escorts to march in. She noted that each stallion in the audience seemed uncomfortable with the way Warding Spear was walking, whist the mares seemed to enjoy the sight of his discomfort. The ponies approached the single stand in the centre of the room, pushing Spear into it. “Warding Spear, you are hereby charged with the foalnapping of Sky Sapphire, daughter of Princess Luna. How do you plead?”
“Not guilty.” A whole host of angry shouts made the throne room shake, and Celestia waved a hoof to quieten them down.
“And to the charge of attempting to kill her, and her father, how do you plead?”
“Not guilty.” He hit the side of the stand as a bottle connected with his head, the Solar Guards immediately ejecting the pony that had launched it. Celestia was a little shocked to find Fancy Pants' seat now empty.
“So to both charges you plead not guilty, and the third, which you had already admitted to, the punishment has already been carried out I see. Very well, we shall begin this trial. I call the first witness.”
A door opened to the side and the Lunar Captain strode forth, standing in front of a lectern. A solar Guard approached and stood before him. “Do you promise to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, in Her Majesty's name?”
“I do.” The guard turned and bowed to Celestia, and then backed away.
“Please, tell the court your name.”
“It is Defiant Moonlight.”
“What is your job, and how long have you had it?”
“I am the Captain Of the Night Guard, it has been my position for almost ten years.”
“And do you interview every potential member?”
“I do, to make sure I have the right ponies under my command.”
“I see. Please, tell the court of your dealings with Warding Spear.”
“I first met him a few short months after Princess Luna's return. He wanted to join the Lunar Guards, saying that they would need as many as they can get now the Night's Mistress had come back. He answered all of my questions completely, and I was truly impressed. He was a good guard, well liked among his peers. And then he started to change. He took every possible extra duty involving Princess Luna, and fought against those that sometimes got them. It got even worse, like he was obsessed. And then one day we hear a cry for help, rushing into the throne room to find Warding Spear attempting to... assault Princess Luna. We thankfully managed to stop him.”
“And what did you do when he escaped?”
“I got squads to follow him, but your sister bid us to leave him, but keep an eye out in case he tried it again.”
“Well, for that crime he has paid the price. For breaking out of prison, that is punishable by one day in the stocks. Guards, take him. We will resume in the morning.” Warding Spear struggled against his escorts, in a vain attempt to get free. He had been on stockade duty, and knew what happened to those placed in it. The doors closing muffled his screams for mercy. Celestia cleared her throat and regained the room's attention. “My little ponies, you may now retire. Remember, this trial is not to be talked about outside of this room.”
Spear winced as another piece of rotting fruit hit his ribs, adding to the sticky mess now covering him. He had been there for almost eight hours, if he could tell by the sun. Occasionally the guards would give him water to keep him hydrated, but nothing more. Any attempts to communicate with them usually met with a hoof to the jaw, and on one painful occasion, a bolt of electricity to his stallionhood.
He lifted his gaze to the passing ponies, not one looking in his direction. And then out of the crowd came three teenage fillies, carrying baskets. They looked the sweetest in the whole world as they approached, cautiously sitting in front of him. And then he had a shock as the yellow earth pony with a cherry red mane and brown Stetson spoke to him. “So, why did ya do it?”
He tried to speak, but ended up in a coughing fit. The white unicorn with the pink and purple mane levitated a cup of water to him, allow his thirst to quenched. “T-t-thank you. I did it b-b-b-because I love L-l-l-luna. She belongs with me.”
“Girls, you are not to be here.” All four of them raised their heads to find an alicorn stallion standing above him, surrounded by guards. The fillies all nodded and left, but not before they slapped Spear each...hard. Alec watched them leave before he continued. “Those were Flame and Sky's foalsitters, by the way. So you love Luna? An d why do you think she rejected you?”
“She... w-w-wasn't thinking straight! She d-d-d-deserves the best, not some a-a-a-alien from a long dead world!” Alec gave a small chuckle, meeting Spear's defiant gaze.
“You know, you're absolutely right, she does deserve the best, and that certainly isn't me. But do you know why I am married to her with two foals, and you are there right now?”
“Well why d-d-d-don't you enlighten me, your highness!” There was a certain emphasis placed on that, which caused Alec to chuckle once more.
“Oh I intend to. You see, I was ready to leave Luna long ago, as I believed she deserved more, and I didn't deserve her. But she told me that I was the one she wanted, despite what she did or did not deserve. You see, what we have is true love, wanting to be with each other mutually, and with the same amount of affection. What you had was lust, and you never had the chance to act upon it, until you two were alone.”
“A-a-a-and I would do so again! N-n-n-nothing will happen to me, I have the best lawyer money can buy!”
“Oh, you mean Rightful Hooves? Yeah, sorry, but not any more. He dropped out of the case. You now have a state appointed lawyer. Enjoy the rest of your day.” He turned and walked away, ignoring the stream of profanities and insults thrown his way. The crowd, however, did not, and Spear once more found himself used as a canvas for art using rotten fruit and veg.
Trial Day Two
Once more Celestia bid the ponies to be seated, and for Warding Spear to be brought forth. His coat had been cleaned, but some bruises were visible from some particularly hard items. There were reports of bricks being thrown... by off duty guards. She would look into that later, and berate those who did so. Which actually meant congratulate for having the will to do so to a former friend.
The group approached, and Spear swayed from side to side, his face extremely weary. “Court is now in session. I call for the next witness.” The side door one more swung open, a cream coated pegasus mare with a maroon mane entering. The same Solar Guard from the day before approached her.
“Do you promise to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, in Her Majesty's name?”
“I do.” Once more, he bowed and backed away.
“If you will, tell the court you name.”
“It is Blazing Petal.”
“And your occupation?”
“Lunar Guard, Sub-lieutenant.”
“In what way did you have dealings with accused?”
“He was my opposite number... and also at one point, my coltfriend.” A hushed murmur spread throughout the room, the only ponies not surprised being the guards.
“And how was your relationship with him?”
“This is nothing to do with my trial! It is an invasion of personal privacy!” Celestia looked up to see Fancy Pants with another bottle, but she gently pulled it away form him.
“So... foalnapping and threatening to dismember a filly all to win over a mare is not a form of personal privacy information? We must know about you from different sources, as you refuse to tell us yourself.” She turned back to Petal and smiled. “Please, begin.”
Warding Spear leant close to his lawyer, whispering in his ear. “Tell then they can't do this!”
“Actually, they can. There is no law against such things in court, and they are following the rules to a t. There is nothing I can do at the moment.” Over at the witness lectern, Blazing Petal took a deep breath.
“Well... I had a crush on him from day one during the training. On one day off, we bumped into each other at a coffee shop, and sat down to chat together. He was really nice and sweet, so we decided to try a relationship together. I can honestly say those two years were some of the best of my life. But then... everything changed.” She raised a hoof and wiped a tear from her eye.
Celestia gave her a sympathetic smile, nodding her head. “Please, tell the court what happened next.”
“He began to grow distant, doing more and more extra duties. I thought he was after promotion so left him to it. After a couple of months we had a anniversary date, and he was really happy, telling me that his plans were moving forward. I thought that maybe, just maybe, he was going to ask the question. Then not two days later I follow a cry for help into the throne room, arriving with my fellow guards to find him trying to... force himself on Princess Luna. It was then I saw his true colours.”
“And how do you feel about him now?”
“He is dead to me.”
“Did he ever write you love notes?”
“Yes, he did.”
“I now present Evidence A to the court, a hoof written note detailing instructions for Luna's divorce, to which if she refused, the perpetrator would begin to dismember Sky Sapphire and send her back in pieces.” Another wave of hushed murmurs ran through the court, but the underlying current was definitely anger. She floated the note over to Blazing Petal. “If you would please inform the court, is this the same hoof writing as your love notes from this stallion?”
“Without any doubt, that writing belongs to Warding Spear.” The court room erupted into a haze of shouts, each one being unintelligible. Celestia stood from her throne and struck the stone beneath her hooves, causing an immediate silence.
“Warding Spear, do you know what the penalty for the attempted assassination of Equestrian Royalty is?”
“Yes, your highness, it is death.”
“And in light of this new evidence, how do you now plead to both charges?”
“I still plead not guilty, your highness.”
“Very well. We shall deliberate. Court will resume in two hours!” She stomped her hoof once, then left the chaos that was unfolding.
Almost exactly two hours later, the doors opened and Warding Spear was once more dragged along as he struggled against the guards. Instead of the stand, he was placed in a heap in front of the dais, where Celestia stood waiting. “Judgement has been passed. I, Princess Celestia, and your peers, find you guilty of attempting to kill members of the Royal Family, and therefore sentence you to death. The punishment will be carried out in twenty four hours. You have that time to set your affairs in order, but will be escorted and remain shackled at all times. Court is adjourned!” She stamped a hoof and swept out of the throne room, whilst Warding Spear was dragged back towards the dungeons.
Rising Flame and Sky Sapphire romped through the gardens, unaware of the events that took place over the past two days. Luna and Alec watched with a smile as they played, when there was a loud squeal of glee as a unicorn filly shot forward. Candy Magic had the same mane and tail as her mother, which in four years nopony had managed to work out why, and the same coat colour as her father.
Said ponies waved to the royal couple as Pinkie Pie and Donut Joe walked through the gates, followed by Applejack and Caramel. Peeking over the top of Caramel's head was a small earth pony colt. AJ reached up and placed him to the floor, but he quickly hid behind her fore hooves from the two big scary ponies making their way over to them.
He had seen ponies with wings and ponies with horns, but only one pony with both horns and wings, and even she still scared him sometimes. AJ bent down and nuzzled him out from hiding. “Dusty Spur, be polite now. The 'ere is Princess Luna and 'er oaf of a husband Alec. Say hello now.”
“um... hello.”
Alec looked up with amusement, staring at Applejack. “What? Ah can see somethin' on yer mind, so what is it?”
“Well... are you sure he's yours? I mean he seems so... shy.” AJ reached up a hoof and brought his face down and close to hers.
“Now you listen here, an' listen good, Ah'm only gonna say this once! Ah carried Dusty for the whole eleven months, an' let me tell you, you wouldn't last a day! He's mah colt, an' there ain't no two ways about it. 'sides, if this one were sleeping around, Ah think mah brother would 'ave somethin' to say about that!”
“Sorry.” His head was released and he knelt down to the floor, smiling at the colt. “Hey there little guy, how are you? Mine name's Alec, can you tell me yours?” Dusty looked up at AJ, who nodded her encouragement. He then returned his gaze to the stallion in front of him.
“D-dusty S-spur, sir.” This earned a smile, which was quickly replaced by a frown as Alec looked up to the sky. They all followed his gaze, studying the low lying grey clouds. They couldn't see anything, but had over the years come to trust Alec's intuition. It was more accurate then Pinkie's Pinkie Sense.
Then something appeared from the clouds, changing direction for the very garden they were standing in. It flew fast, and Alec had just enough time to throw a shield over them as whatever it was hit the ground, throwing up mounds of dirt. Once the dust settled, they looked at a large metal object, emblazoned with a black eagle like form over a gold shield. Flame and Sky galloped over to it, but were stopped as Alec jumped in front of them, horn glowing.
Whatever it was made noise, the hissing of air as it equalised the interior pressure with that of the atmosphere. It was followed by the sound of machinery, one of the sides beginning to raise upwards. A long black barrel appeared through the steam as the occupant exited, revealing itself to be a biped, completely covered in armour. It looked around and spotted the ponies, walking towards them. It kept its weapon raised at the one who had a glowing horn.
Alec spread his wings and bent down, shielding his foals from the possible threat, walking backwards to ensure their safety. Three more of the machines shot through the air and hit the ground. Two more of the riders were dressed the same, carrying similar weapons. They couldn't make out the third, but Alec stood straight as he heard the voice. It had been so long he only just registered what was said. “Stand down! Klaus, call your men off!”
The three soldiers lowered their weapons and backed away slightly, parting to allow a woman to walk forward. She slowly approached the ponies, walking straight past Alec and up to Luna, who had grabbed the twins with her magic and set them on her back, using her wings to hide them. To the shock of all she let them drop, allowing the trio to stare at each other for a moment. The woman's arms then shot out and grabbed the foals. All but Alec and Luna moved to help them, but once closer found them to be unharmed, looking confused in the human's hug.
Alec came over and she placed the foals down, then wrapped her arms around his neck. He placed a foreleg around her back, and then the other two mares got close enough to see who it was. Alec's horn flashed and bathed the area in a cool light, pulling away from the woman. “It's wonderful to see you again, Sarah. But... what are you doing here?”
“I can't just pay a visit to my family on a whim, being escorted by soldiers?” Alec grinned as he recognised his family's particular vein of sarcasm in her words. “Truthfully, Celestia asked me for a favour, and I am here to deliver. I also thought we could catch up a bit.” Before anything else could be said, Applejack slammed her hoof to the ground.
“Now wait jus' a minute 'ere. How come Ah can understand y'all, but Ah couldn't last time?” Alec raised his hoof and tapped his horn, smiling at her.
“Translation spell. Needed somepony with knowledge of both languages for it to work. It's what I've been sending Twilight bits of information of over the years so she could make it work. So, Sarah, what's this favour for Tia?” Her gaze dropped to the floor, where the twins were staring up in wonder.
“Not now, later, away from the kids. Who are adorable, by the way!” They were promptly snatched into a rib crushing embrace, Sky relishing in the affection from the strange... thing, whilst Flame writhed about, trying to get free. He finally gave a huff and looked at Alec in defeat.
“Father, who and what is this?”
“This is Sarah Luckes, a human, like I used to be. And I guess you could say she's your really long distance cousin.” Flame sighed in annoyance. The last thing he wanted right now was an over affectionate, strange smelling, hairless ape thing holding him close. But it seemed to make his father and mother happy, so he chose to endure it. Besides, if he put up with it, maybe they'd reduce his punishment. After all, this was the first time in three weeks he had been allowed to play outside.
Warding Spear slowly regained consciousness, the last thing he remembered was 'falling' down the stairs outside of the throne room. The smell of something burning reached his nostrils, but there was no way the dungeons could be on fire! A small flare of light drew his attention to the shadows of the cell, where he could just make out a dark shape standing tall. “So, you are the one. Ich wanted to meet you before you were sent to your fate.” The speaker moved forward, revealing itself to be a human male.
“W-w-w-what do you want?”
“To asses you. There is no sign of regret in dein eyes, and thus will bear your full punishment.” The man turned and hit the bars, a guardspony appearing and letting him out. He lifted the white stick to his mouth and sucked on it, making it flare again and causing the human to breathe out smoke. “Ich understand your business here is concluded. Du hast twenty four hours before we leave.”
Spear was left alone in the cell as the footsteps echoed away. Twenty four hours until 'we' leave. Surely they are not taking me with them? It was a preposterous idea, why would they be taking him? He lay back down again and resigned to wait. His fate was sealed, and nothing could be done about it.
“Celestia asked that?”
“Yeah, I was a little shocked at first, but after seeing his reactions to Klaus, I don't think he'll last long. Anyway, tell me about the foals!” Alec floated over a glass of wine to Sarah, who took an appreciative sip.
“Well, they are right pain in the flank, and extremely cheeky. I love 'em to bits, and wouldn't change a thing. Sky Sapphire is one of the sweetest ponies you could ever meet, but also has a devious side to her, coming from her mother. Rising Flame is an intelligent colt, perhaps sometimes too intelligent. He doesn't really bow to social graces, and can often say things where he means well, but causes offence.” He tilted his glass back and the whole red liquid disappeared in one go.
“I wonder where he gets that from. I think I read that in a personnel file a few years ago. Ah yes, something about 'has been quoted saying the truth is better than being nice. Upon further questioning responds with Let me present the amount of fucks I give.' I wonder who that was about?”
“Yeah, yeah, laugh it up. Okay, so he gets it from me, but I've changed a lot in the last seven years. So how about you? You seem to know this Klaus very well.” He smirked as her cheeks flushed lightly, and she downed half of her remaining wine.
“It was two years into the Anglo-Franco war, I was on a deep behind enemy lines mission, trying to get intel on their supply lines. Anyway, on one backwater planet I got sloppy. Got a nice long scar on my back from the piece of shrapnel that tore through my armour. So there I was waiting to bleed out, or to be found and executed as a spy. But then the trees started to move. I blacked out, but when I came to I was in a cave, and my wound was bandaged. There was a man sitting on a ledge, fishing into the river behind him. I managed to get enough strength to speak, saying 'You might as well kill me, because I will tell you nothing!'”
“And then, Ich said...” The pair whipped their heads to the man standing in the doorway. He walked over to the table and grabbed the bottle of wine and another glass. He topped the others up as he continued. “...'And why, frauline, would Ich do that?' The relief on her face was amazing.”
“And together we found the intel, which ended the war. Also destroyed seventeen bases on that world. No military force would continue when their supplies start dwindling. True, it took three years for the effect to work, but we did it. And now, we work with each other whenever we can, it's how I found you.” Alec nodded as he sipped his wine... “We occasionally fuck as well.” ...and then promptly spewed it out on to the floor.
“I do hope that you will be clearing this carpet, dear husband. It was a gift from my mother.” Alec's ears splayed back as he looked to the doorway once more, where Luna was standing with a smirk on her face. She cantered over and sat next to him, leaning against his side. She nodded her head towards the table. “If you would be so kind.”
Alec smiled and lit his horn, grabbing another glass and bringing it over, filling it to almost the brim. Luna took a sip and sighed appreciatively, pressing even closer. She smiled to the pair sat opposite them, noticing that the man had his arm behind her on the back of the couch, and she was now a little closer. “So Sarah, tell me, when are you two having a child?”
Sarah's mood changed instantly, and Luna knew she had said something wrong. The woman threw back the rest of her glass, and leaned into Klaus' side. Her eyes were becoming teary. “As much as I would like to have one, I can't. A piece of shrapnel from that day pierced my womb, causing irreversible damage. I guess it's up to my brothers and sisters to carry on the family name.”
Luna closed her eyes and let her horn glow with a yellow aura. Sarah became worried as a same coloured glow covered her stomach, and she placed a hand over it, looking to the stallion on the other couch. Alec's face was not one of concern, instead giving her a soft smile. He lit his horn as well and the glow on her stomach intensified.
Then she felt tingly, like her whole body was on fire. It abruptly cut off and she let out a breath she didn't realise she was holding. “You know, when you arrived, Alec and I were apart. There was an argument that now seems so trivial, and it took your intervention to bring us back together. I cannot thank you enough for that, but at least we can do something for you.”
Sarah stared at them in shock. Even with the best medical technology it still wasn't possible. But then she remembered that this world had magic, and with such a tool, anything is possible. She was lost for words as Klaus' arm wrapped around her, holding her tightly against his chest. “This ist a gut gift, ja? Ich cannot thank du enough. In honour of those that helped us, we shall name the child after du, boy or girl.”
Sarah nodded her agreement, and before anything more could be said the door swung open, a trolley being pushed in by a maid. Alec's head shot up and he grinned. “At last, pizza! Things got too heavy for a while there!” He levitated a slice over before the mare got close, and Luna jabbed a hoof into his stomach.
“If you keep eating at this rate, it will not be the only thing that gets heavy!”
Celestia walked along the corridor outside of the guest room, hearing laughter from the larger one. She cracked the door open and saw Sarah flying around the room in a beige aura, whilst Klaus danced with Luna to some classical music. She then noted the seven empty bottles of wine on the table, and the half drunk glasses.
The four occupants then noticed her and smirked, whilst she just shook her head. A new bottle was floated over along with a clean glass, and she nodded her head at Alec. “Just the one, and then it is off to bed. I'm sure the foalsitters would like to get some sleep tonight.”
“Spoilsport.” Alec then glanced at the clock. “Then again, eleven is pretty late.” They finished their drinks and left the two humans to talk amongst themselves. Sarah gently closed the door and turned around.
“Sarah, Ich do not like that look on deine face. Ist something wrong?” She walked forward slowly wiggling her hips and smiling seductively. “Ah, Ich see. So... thinks are about to become erotik, ja?” She pounced forward and pushed him on to the table. Outside the door Alec started snickering as they heard crashing, and Luna pulled his ear with her magic, making him follow. They arrived at their apartment to see the former Crusaders and their partners sat quietly.
Applebloom was, true to her cutie mark, currently painting, and Alec trotted over to find an almost complete picture of the snoring foals cuddle up on the other couch. They waited for her to finish and set it aside to dry, before Luna lifted Sky up in her magic. “Would you girls assist me please?”
They nodded and Flame was lifted in a green aura. Sweetie Belle and Applebloom took him to his room, whilst Scootaloo followed Luna. Alec turned his attention to the two colts and dragon averting their gazes. “You three, come with me.” They followed him out in to the corridor where a group of guards were waiting. “Now then, I am going to be lenient with you three. There are only a few rooms available, so you will have to share. With the fillies.”
Their faces lit up immediately, but soon fell again under his stern gaze. “That being said, nothing is going to happen tonight.” Spike went to protest, but a raised hoof kept him silent. “I don't care if Sweetie Belle is sixteen, nothing will happen. Even if they start it. Do you understand?”
The three looked between each other and then nodded. It wasn't what they wanted to hear, but they would respect his wishes. Alec left them with the guards, returning a short moment later with Shine Bright, Luna's personal maid. He entered his room, and the three fillies promptly left. “Well then young masters and ladies, if you would like to follow me, I will show you to your rooms.”
They trotted off after the mare, the guards remaining at their posts. They were taking no chances at the moment.
A loud rumble woke Alec from his slumber, and he looked around the room before a flash came through a gap in the curtains, which was followed by another rumble. He laid his head back as he realised it was just a storm. Luna stirred, pulling closer to him when her eyes snapped open at a much louder clash of thunder. His forelegs came up around her and she let out a sigh.
After another flash they stared at the end of their bed, where they could make out a strange silhouette standing upon it. Yet more lightning revealed Flame and Sky looking at them, clearly scared from the raging storm. Alec and Luna broke apart, and lifted up the blanket. The twins walked over and lay between them. More thunder caused Sky to start shaking and press closer to her father. “She is remembering what happened out there. The storm is worrying her, and Flame is feeling it.”
Alec looked at Luna for a moment, and then started running his hoof through Sky's mane, Luna doing the same to Flame. His horn glowed a little, and a ball appeared above the bed. It flared once and stars appeared on the walls, moving around the room. A melody started to play from somewhere, and Luna's eyes went wide as Alec began to sing. “Come little children, I'll take thee away, into a land of enchantment. Come little children the time's come to play, here in my garden of shadows.”
His hoof came over and wiped the tears that came to her eyes that she didn't even know were there. It was impossible for him to know that song, as she was taught it millennia ago by her mother. His voice was so soft and the added bass to the words made it all the more powerful. She swallowed once and then joined in his singing. “Follow sweet children, I'll show thee the way, through all the pain and the sorrows. Weep not poor children for life is this way, murdering beauty and passions.”
Alec smiled through her words, continuing to sooth Sky. “Hush now dear children, it must be this way, to weary of life and deceptions. Rest now my children for soon we'll away, into the calm and the quiet.”
“Come little children, I'll take thee away, into a land of enchantment. Come little children the time's come to play, here in my garden of shadows.” The sounds of snoring coming from between them proved their efforts worked, even as the storm raged outside. Luna remembered to the first time she heard him sing, smiling at the memory. She leant forward and touch her horn to his, pulling him into her dreams for the night.
Two spectral ponies walked in through the doors to the bar, all the others inside ignoring them. Alec and Luna moved to the space near the stage, watching as their engagement party got into it's full swing. They had decided on a fancy dress party, and Luna was wearing a red bunnymare suit. The stallions, for some unknown reason, were wearing matching white uniforms and hats, with mostly similar markings, but some had more gold stripes than others.
Alec nuzzled Luna and pointed to the door, where his previous self had just entered, flanked by Big Mac and Shining Armour in matching uniforms. They smiled as he trotted over to the DJ and had a word. Mac stayed by the booth as the others moved over to Luna sitting at the bar. It was a surprise, but Alec had explained what exactly happened the say after. They continued to watch as their memories played out before them.
Alec trotted over and tapped Luna on the shoulder and caused her to turn. “Excuse me, miss...” Armour got in between them and started to push him away.
“Don't worry, I'll take care of this.” Luna turned back to her drink, confused as to what they were playing at. Armour tapped Alec on the shoulder and Mac nodded to the DJ, music playing though the speakers as Alec began.
“You never close your eyes any more when I kiss your lips.” Armour then took a verse for himself.
“And there's no tenderness like before in your fingertips.”
“You're trying hard not to show it,”
All of the stallions in that style of outfit then joined in. “But baby, baby I know it... You've lost that lovin' feeling, Whoa, that lovin' feeling, You've lost that lovin' feeling, Now it's gone... gone... gone... wooooooh.” Alec took a seat next to a smiling Luna, wrapping her with a wing. The two spectral ponies in the corner shared a kiss at the memories, mirroring the pair at the bar, then walked towards the exit. They stopped as Pinkie Pie appeared in front of them, seemingly looking right at them with a frown. She then smiled and waved as they continued. Even in the dream she was still hard to figure out.
Warding Spear followed the guards that served as his escort through the castle, heading towards the garden. Once outside he saw a small ship, surrounded by humans. His shackles had been removed and his wings were healed, but there was no way he could get away from all those watching. The human weapons could fire faster than he could fly.
He silently trudged forward, keeping his gaze to the floor. Out of his peripheral vision he saw that the guards lining the path had removed their helmets and placed them on the floor. This was normally a sign of respect, except it was the back of the helmets facing him. That was the sign of shame.
He knew that each and every one of them wanted to kill him themselves, but they stood fast. The group reached the bottom of a ramp, and then he finally lifted his head, meeting the gazes of Princess Luna and her family, and Princess Celestia. Sky Sapphire walked forward slowly and motioned him to bend down, which he did so, allowing her to whisper into his ear. “I forgive you.”
He stood back up and wiped a tear from his face, nodding to the filly. She went back up and stood in front of her father, who's glare had only intensified as they got closer. Celestia stepped forward with her wings spread. “Warding Spear, on this day you will no longer be a resident of Equestria. For your punishment, I have decreed that you will travel to the world of the one that you tried to kill. It is certain that you will die there, but not known is when. You will have no chance to return, so if there is anything more you wish to say, now is your chance.”
He turned and looked over the crowd, seemingly full of guards, but he did spot a few nobles here and there. “My fri... former friends, I bid you pay heed to my actions, and learn from my mistakes. What I thought was love was lust, and I allowed it to control me, which nearly decimated a loving family. I will bear my punishment with honour, and will not back out.”
His eyes met a pair of familiar orange ones, and he stepped towards them. Celestia waved the guards off as they prepared to pounce, watching him with interest. He approached the pony as the crowd parted, leaving him bowing in front of a mare. “Blazing Petal, I am truly sorry. I realise now what I have truly lost, and I sincerely hope that you find one that you deserve, and who deserves you. I hope you find your happiness.”
To the surprise of the assembly, she pulled him up and kissed him, before turning and galloping through the crowd. A hoof on Spear's shoulder caused him to turn, seeing Defiant Moonlight next to him. “Come on, it's time.” Spear nodded and once more walked to the ship, stopping briefly to look at Luna, and then her husband. Their faces were like stone, showing nothing of what they thought, but the colt between them glared at him.
He gave on last gaze over the crowd and then entered the hatch, leaving the only world he had ever known. Back outside, the humans started to board themselves, until only two were left. Sarah and Klaus were in the middle of saying their goodbyes to Alec and Luna, who told them next time to send warning of a visit. They went to board when a tug on Sarah's leg caused her to look down, seeing the twins looking up with teary eyes.
She knelt down and hugged them, saying that they would meet again sometime. They got on and the hatch closed, followed by a few clunks as it locked in place. The ponies moved away, giving plenty of clearance. Five minutes later the ship began it's ascent, using the low clouds to hide. The sounds died away quickly, and Alec set the foals on his back, smiling at them as he made his way back into the castle.
Rising Flame now tried his father's closet, hoping to spot any sign of wrapping paper. There were multiple suits hanging from the rails, and some strange shoes which he assumed was for his father's other form. Sky sat on the bed giggling at his efforts. He'd never find them in there, as she knew how her father hid them. It was in one of the glowing orange portals he could create where he stashed their presents every year.
The sound of a door opening caused Flame to spook, jumping up in shock and running from the closet. Unfortunately for him, one of his father's ties had snagged on his horn, so when they appeared in the main room it was still present. He looked up to Celestia with the most innocent smile he could muster. “Flame, have you been inside your father's closet?”
“No aunty, I have not.”
“Really? Then how do you explain this?” She pulled the tie off with a hoof, holding it in front of him, watching as his smile dropped. “You know, I would think that by now you would stop looking for them. Even I nor your mother don't know where he puts them, so you will have to wait until the morning. Come now, it is time for bed.”
Sky stamped her hooves and huffed, staring up at Celestia. “But I'm not tired! I don't want to go to bed!” A gold aura surrounded them both, and they found themselves floating through the air in the castle, to the room next to Celestia's, then set down on the two beds in there.
“I have let you stay up longer then your parents, Sapphy, but not much later. You don't want to be tired for tomorrow, do you?” She just sat the with a scowl on her face and crossed her fore hooves. Celestia sighed, before lighting her horn and creating a ball of light in the air, which Sky then smiled at. “You know, I was the one that taught him this spell when you were younger. It worked on your mother as well.” She sat in between the beds and closed her eyes.
“Fate has been cruel and order unkind, how can I have sent you away? The blame was my own; the punishment, yours, the harmony's silent today.”
“But into the stillness I'll bring you a song, and I will your company keep. Till your tired eyes and my lullabies, have carried you softly to sleep.”
“Once did a pony who shone like the sun, look out on her kingdom and sigh. She smiled and said, 'Surely, there is no pony, so lovely and so well beloved as I.'”
“So great was her reign and so brilliant her glory, that long was the shadow she cast. Which fell dark upon the young sister she loved, and grew only darker as days and nights passed.”
“Lullay moon princess, goodnight sister mine, and rest now in moonlight's embrace. Bear up my lullaby, winds of the earth, through cloud, and through sky, and through space.”
“Carry the peace and the coolness of night, and carry my sorrow in kind. Luna, you're loved so much more than you know, forgive me for being so blind.”
“Soon did that pony take notice that others did not give her sister her due. And neither had she loved her as she deserved, She watched as her sister's unhappiness grew.”
“But such is the way of the limelight, it sweetly, takes hold of the mind of its host. And that foolish pony did nothing to stop, the destruction of one who had needed her most.”
“Lullay moon princess, goodnight sister mine, and rest now in moonlight's embrace. Bear up my lullaby, winds of the earth, through cloud, and through sky, and through space.”
“Carry the peace and the coolness of night, and carry my sorrow in kind. Luna, you're loved so much more than you know, may troubles be far from your mind, And forgive me for being so blind.”
“The years now before us, fearful and unknown. I never imagined I'd face them on my own. May these thousand winters, swiftly pass, I pray. I love you; I miss you, All these miles away.”
“May all your dreams be sweet tonight, safe upon your bed of moonlight. And know not of sadness, pain, or care, and when I dream, I'll fly away and meet you there.” Upon opening her eyes, she found the pair to be breathing lightly, having fallen asleep half way through. She gently kissed them both on the forehead and left the room, leaving the orb of light spinning. Shutting the door, she rested her head against it, not bothering to wipe the tears away. “Oh Luna... can you ever forgive me?”
“I though we had discussed this already, Tia?” She whipped round to find her sister sat on her couch, a bottle of wine and two glasses on the small table next to it. “Of course I do. Now come, let us share a drink.” She cantered over and sat, giving a start as Luna pressed against her side. “There is nothing you could have done to stave off the darkness, so please, do not think of it any more."
The glasses were filled and the two sisters allowed themselves a moment of peace. After all tomorrow would be chaotic, with or without Discord's help. A party for the twins was one thing, but Alec inviting Scootaloo to have her sixteenth birthday at the castle? He was planning something, and neither mare could work it out.
Flame sat up slowly and yawned, looking around the room for a few moments confused. Then he remembered they were in Celestia's spare room, and looked over to the next bed to see Sky still asleep. He flapped his wings a few times, then took a running jump towards her bed. He was about halfway there when all his movement stopped. He looked down to see a green glow around his waist. “Now, that is not the proper way to wake your sister up, is it? AB, would you like to do the honours?”
Stood in the door way was Sweetie Belle and Applebloom, smiling in. The earth pony trotted over and sat next to Sky's bed, lifting up a hoof. “Ah would love t', Sweets. Now watch and learn, little Flame.” Her hoof came down and dug into the filly's ribs, causing her to awaken in fight, but the high pitched sound of filly laughter soon hit their ears. She continued her assault until Sky's face started to get really red, and then she eased up. “An' a good mornin' to you, Miss Sapphire. It's time t' get up now!”
“But can't I have a lie in, please?” Applebloom shook her head at the pout, long since becoming immune to it's affects.
“Why would ya want t' lie in past ten in the mornin', Ah don't know. But yer mother an' father asked us to come get y'all. Now hope to it little princess!” She pulled Sky with a hoof, setting her on her back. Sweetie Belle was waiting by the door with Flame on her back, and together they entered the main room. There was another pony waiting for them, one that they had not seen for a couple of years. They jumped down and immediately threw their forelegs around the white mare's neck.
“Ah, ah... that is not the proper way to say hello. Try again.” Rarity smirked as they fell back to the floor and sat in front of her. Sky titled her head to the side and bowed it a little, which was returned. Flame knelt to the ground, bowing in front of her. He then made her giggle as he grabbed one of her fore hooves and kissed it gently. She certainly hadn't taught him that bit.
“I hope that's not a sign of infidelity on your part, Rarity.” A large pegasus stallion walked in, his dark grey coat gleaming, but his mane... it was not longer a Mohawk, and his tail had grown out. Sky ran over and leapt around his neck.
“Mister Thunderlane!!” He laughed, making sure she didn't fall with a foreleg.
“Good morning sweetie.” The sound of babbling drew their attention to a small cot, and upon looking inside, they saw a unicorn colt. “I see you've met the newest addition. This here is our son, Jett Emerald. My parents are looking after him for the night.” His coat was the same as Rarity's, but his mane was jet black, and his eyes were the sparkling green of his name.
“Yes, yes, we've all said hello, and it is unbecoming of one in my position to be seen it such a way, which is why I have been away for a while. Now, it's time to get you two ready!” Flame tried to run as a tape measure appeared in a blue glow, but was once more caught by the fashionista's younger sister. Just outside the closed doors, the five guards started snickering as a wail came through the wood.
“Noooo, I don't want to be dressed up!”
Pinkie put the finishing touches on the dining hall, letting Joe float her down from the ceiling in his magic, giggling all the way. She gave the room a final look over, smiling at her efforts. It was a miracle to get a party together for two seven year olds and a sixteen year old, but Pinkie Pie is Equestria's premier party planner.
A side door opened, four ponies trotting in. Pinkie zipped over and started her usual mile a minute speech, rushing around the room and pointing out highlights. After at least two laps of the room, she scrambled back over to the group, stopping in front of Alec with a impossibly wide smile on her face. “So, what do you think?”
“Uh... yeah. Looks like your cannon got sick and spewed out a party.”
“Aww, thanks.”
“It wasn't a compliment, but yeah, it looks good. Now let's get everypony in here before they arrive.” All but the main doors opened, and a whole bunch of ponies streamed in. Luna came to the centre if the room, standing next to Alec, then were joined by Firefly and Bisfrost. Everypony else ducked down behind the shadows as they heard voices coming, and Alec nodded towards to the stage, and made sure Trixie was ready.
Scootaloo, Flame and Sky trotted down the corridors, worried as to why they seemed to be herded in one direction, and why no guards were present. They approached the dining room doors, pushing them open to reveal darkness. Slowly trotting in, they stopped as the door swung closed behind them. A light appeared on the stage, slowly growing in size until it took the shape of a dragon. It's head looked at the three ponies in the middle of the room, and then leapt towards them.
Scootaloo shot her wings out as the twins began screaming, covering them from the monster. As it got closer, the mouth opened, as if to swallow them whole. It got to inches away from Scootaloo's muzzle and the exploded, forcing them to close their eyes from the flash. “HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!” She rubbed her eyes and took a quick peek, the room now illuminated and lots of ponies smiling at them. The remains of the dragon formed words that echoed the shout, and slowly fizzed away like used fireworks.
She lowered her wings to let the foals see, but their faces couldn't be more different. Luna shot forward and gleefully swept them into her embrace. Sky was really happy in her gold coloured dress, and with the way her mane was done. Flame on the other hoof, was clearly unamused with his outfit and mane. And then came the good part as ponies came forward with wrapped up gifts, their eyes lighting up with shock.
Scootaloo was currently being set upon by her family, who had a pile of gifts for her. She thanked them all before Rumble approached slowly, placing a grey box on the floor and nudging it forward a little. She didn't take her gaze off him whilst she reached for it. He had his muzzle pointed towards the ground, switching his eyes from the wall to hers and back. His heart stopped for a moment as she gasped upon opening the box.
Scootaloo stood stock still in shock, staring at the light violet earnings, the jewels shaped like the butterfly portion of her cutie mark. She raised her gaze back to Rumble, mouth hanging open. He smiled softly and held the box up next to her face. “Do y-you like them? I-it's purple j-jade, t-they match your eyes, which are b-b-beautiful on their own.”
He watched as she worked her mouth a few times before closing it and her eyes. He was about to ask what was wrong when she leapt at him, hooves around his neck and knocking him to the floor with a satisfying smooch. She pulled away and sat on his lap, keeping her hooves on his chest. “Thank you Rumble, they're wonderful, but... I don't have my ears pierced, and I'm not sure mom would let me get them done.”
A tap on her shoulder caused her to turn, finding Firefly standing there with a smile, pointing to the side. Scootaloo's gaze followed the hoof, seeing Twilight with a My First Earring kit. She gave Rumble one more quick kiss, gathered up the discarded box, and shot off into the corner with the alicorn.
On the other side of the room, Rising Flame was looking on with a small hint of jealousy as Sky continued to unwrap her presents. She had slightly more than him, even though he had received lots of them, mostly toys, but to his secret glee, quite a few books on things like Equestrian History. A hoof resting on his shoulder caused him to look up, seeing his father with a soft smile on his face. “Don't worry son, there is at least one more for you. It's for your sister as well, but I've got a feeling you're going to get more use out of it.”
“What is it, father?” Alec gave a small chuckle, shaking his head.
“It's a surprise. We'll show you at sundown.” Flame set his curiosity on the back burner as the door to the kitchens open and the servants began heading towards the table. He went to run over, but his fathers voice slowed him down. “Don't eat too much, you've got a cake to come yet.”
The meal was magnificent, the chefs pulling out all the stops. There were plenty of healthy foods for the adults, but the younger ones gorged themselves on what tasted nice, not what was good for them. Scootaloo was sitting amongst her friend when Alec noticed her face jump a little, before settling into a pleased smile. And then he saw who was sat next to him. “Rumble, fore hooves above the table please.”
The colt's forelegs shot up, and he averted his gaze from the now laughing group. The lights were dimmed down as a bright glow emanated from the kitchen. Scoots was motioned to the central table with the twins, and a group of unicorns emerged, carrying a large cake between them. And then it started. “HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO...” Three different names were shouted out by pre arranged groups.
“RISING FLAME!”
“SKY SAPPHIRE!”
“SCOOTALOO!”
“HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!” With the final verse, they all took a deep breath and blew the candles out, which totalled thirty. Well, there were two ponies now seven and one of sixteen sharing a cake so... A knife was picked up in a beige glow, cutting three large slices and putting them on plates in front of the special ponies. They prepared to dig in, but failed to notice the blue, gold, and green auras. They leant down to take a bite when their faces were slammed into the slices. Flame and Sky came up giggling, whilst Scootaloo gave the best scowl she could muster.
Until Rumble came over and licked her cheek, causing her to smile and blush, allowing him to continue cleaning her face. What they also didn't notice was the camera placed in front of them. Alec moved over to where the other Crusaders were, specifically looking at Sweetie Belle. “Excuse me Miss Belle, may I have a word with you... in private?”
She looked around with others before nodding, following him to a balcony. Spike couldn't help but follow, hoping that it wouldn't be anything bad. He gently eased the door open, sticking his ear to the crack. “So then Mr Luckes... what d-d-do you want to talk about?”
“Well, Scootaloo is now sixteen, and I'm not blind as to how Rumble looks at her. What I want to know... you and Spike...”
“... have we... um, done that? It's kind of private... but yes. Why?”
“Well, I was wondering... I mean, I've looked into the history of dragon-pony relationships, and it is possible for them to have children. What I wanted to know is... how have you avoided becoming pregnant? I mean, you and Spike are both at the age where it's possible.”
“How dare you ask something like that of her?” Spike then realised his mistake, and started to back away, but a beige glow around his body forced him out onto the balcony, the door being pushed closed by a firm hoof. He felt like he was in the right, so stood in front of Sweetie Belle and glared back at Alec. “How... could you ask that?”
“Spike, take it easy man. I've not seen nor heard of condoms here, so there must be another way to prevent pregnancy.” Alec floated four chairs, and they sat down. The door opened and Luna came out, carrying a tray of drinks, and then sat next to Alec. “I... just want to find out if it's possible to prevent Scoots being with child before she's ready.”
Spike made as if to speak, but Sweetie Belle placed a hoof over his mouth, giving him a quick peck on the cheek before turning back to the other pair. A small, flat green circle appeared, growing slightly larger. She tuck her hoof in and pulled out a white cardboard box, passing it over to Alec. “Sorry, I really liked that portal spell of yours, and had Twilight teach me it. Those are pills from Nurse Redheart, and they are a trusted form of birth control. It's what me and Spikey Wikey having been using.”
Alec gave a sigh, looking at Luna once before meeting Sweetie Belle's gaze. “Thank you, I'll talk with them in a minute. So then, Rarity's colt. Is that why she's been hiding, saying that her 'Manehatten store needed her personal pizazz to get it running again'?”
“Uh huh, mom and dad were the only other ones that knew. She wouldn't even see Fluttershy when they paid a visit, but I think she knew. It was funny, Rarity thought she looked 'fat and ugly' whilst carrying him, but a few fashion magazines got pictures of her from somewhere...”
“Sweetie Belle...”
“It wasn't her.” Alec and Luna stared wide eyed at the teenage dragon, surprised he'd admit it. “It was me. The issue is due out tomorrow, and I was allowed the final edits. In fact, I've got a copy for her to ready in the morning. Sweetie, can you get if for them?” She nodded and put her hoof back into the portal, bringing said article forth. She passed it over and watched their reactions.
Alec gave a low whistle as he read the head line. “'Even at nine months pregnant, Miss Rarity shows us she is still top of her game, and glows even brighter with her coming motherhood.' Yeah, I can certainly see that... ow!” He rubbed his flank where Luna had just slapped him. “Oh come on, you look at that and tell me there isn't... something there!”
Luna smirked at him and ruffled his mane, laughing as he pulled away. He never did like his hair touched, even as a human. She then pressed closer, nodding to Sweetie Belle. “Thank you, this eases our concerns. You may return to the party now, but can you ask Rumble to come speak with us?” They got down and nodded, heading inside close together.
Alec and Luna sat looking over the city for a few minutes, and they heard the door open and shut. Rumble appeared and jumped into a chair in front of them. You could clearly see the unease on the colt's face. A cardboard box was thrown into his lap, and he gave the label a read, looking back up at the couple with wide eyes.
Alec said nothing, keeping his stern gaze whilst Luna smiled softly. “Do not pressure her, Rumble. If she feels she is ready, then offer her the choice. We are merely trying to help. Wait until after the party. Do you understand?”
“Yes ma'am.” She nodded and returned inside, Rumble's confidence draining under the glare that was now being thrown his direction.
“Rumble.”
“Yes, s-s-sir?”
“Treat her right, or it won't be just Dash after you.” He swallowed nervously before staring into those soul-piercing blue eyes.
“Yes sir.”
Chapter 7: Did you ever wonder why they were just princesses?
“But father, I don't understand why we need to be at the ship yard!” Alec said nothing, and continued to walk towards the office. Flame was held back by Luna's hoof as he went into the one marked 'manager', where they heard a muffled conversation. A moment later and he returned, motioning for them to follow. They stopped at the edge of a docking port, but nothing was there, just empty air. “Father, there is no airship or balloon here, what is going on?”
“Part of your last present. Seeing as school has finished this year, I thought we'd go on a little holiday. I remember you two asking about the griffon lands, so that's our destination.” The other three looked around confused, not seeing anything that would take them. The sound of machinery drew their attention to the skies above, where a shadow had appeared in the clouds.
Then the bottom hull of an airship breached, shining with a silver-orange glow in the setting sun's light. More pushed through, and they saw that it was relatively small compared to the usual vessels built here. And unlike the usual build, the balloon was part of the structure, not separate. The two magic powered engines to the side began to move, ending up pointing straight down under the vessel as it slowed, coming to a stop in front of them. A walkway was pushed across, as the deck was level with the dock, and a group of ponies trotted out, securing the mooring lines. A older stallion wearing a white uniform approached and bowed low. “Your majesties, may I present to you, the S.S Polaris!”
Luna whipped her head up and stared at Alec, who responded with a kiss, and then waved her forward with a hoof. She slowly stepped across, seeing the other crew lined up and waiting. They immediately bowed once all four were on board. The walkway was raised and the ship started to move, Luna spinning to face Alec. “What is happening? We haven't even packed, and we can't just leave my sister like this!”
He just gave her a wink and another kiss, before sweeping Flame and Sky on to his back, and heading over to a door in the bulkhead. She blinked a few times as the mooring lines were thrown back aboard, and she turned to find the pony in the uniform standing next to her, mouth moving. “...your majesty?”
“Hmm? Oh, sorry. What were you saying again?”
“Just that we're scheduled for rain in a few moments, and you may wish to step inside. It's going to get pretty cold up here.” He watched her look round, clearly confused as to where to go. “Would you like me to show you the way, princess?”
“Yes, please.” He gave a nod and headed towards the front of the ship, Luna following. Her eyes widened as they entered, the wooden panel passageways looking not unlike the cabin in the mountains of eastern Equestria that they had stayed in during their honeymoon. She then looked at her guide, and remembered the airship that had taken them there. “Starry Helm?”
The pony gave a small chuckle, taking his hat off to scratch at his wilting mane, before placing it back down. “I didn't think you'd recognise my, your highness. After all, I was just a porter back then. Now I am a airship captain, and I was lucky enough to get assigned to the Polaris just yesterday.”
“About that...” He gave another chuckle, stopping next to a door and pointing in with a hoof.
“Ask your husband about the name. He chose it.” Her gaze followed his direction, and she saw they were at the front of the ship, under the main deck. She didn't even remember going down any steps. There was a large panoramic window at one end, where the twins were pressed up against watching the ground below.
The sound of glass clinking drew her attention to the corner, where she saw Alec standing behind a mini bar. She trotted over and sat on a bar stool. He turned round to see her eyeing the bottles, a spark in her eyes. “So, what can I get you this evening ma'am?” His smirk was replied in kind, as she thought about what to wet her whistle.
“I'll have a... Manehatten, please.”
“Coming right up.”
“And can you also tell me why you named this vessel after my father?” He looked up once, then continued to make her drink. He slid it over and then made himself one... with twice the alcohol.
“Yeah, that. Look, I know I've never asked, but I've not found much more than their names, and I was curious about them. If you don't want to talk about it...” She cut him off by placing a wing over his muzzle, making sure Sky and Flame were not listening.
“My father, King Polaris was a kind and just ruler, loved by all his subjects. And then came the Draconequus Wars. He defeated nearly all of them by himself, but there was one that did not play fair...”
“Discord?” He reached over and wiped a tear from her eyes, wrapping a wing around her and pulling her close.
“Yes. It wasn't him that killed him, though. All Discord wanted to do was prove he could be beaten, and was going to let him live, but others knew of the fight. By the time mother arrived... it was too late, there was nothing she could do. Discord then helped her hunt down the remaining ones and remove them from this world, one way or another.”
“I'm sorry, I didn't mean to bring up something so painful. How... old were you at the time?”
“I was... six, Tia was ten. If not for our mother, we would no have got through it. On our sixteenth birthdays, we were given control of the sun and the moon. Our mother went into hiding, and after two hundred years Discord returned. I know you have read upon these events, so there isn't much more to tell.”
“And what of your mother, Faust, was it?”
“I have seen nor heard anything of her for eons. Neither has Celestia.”
“I see.” He raised his drink up, looking over at the twins, who were now jumping from couch to couch with laughter. The way he had just brushed off that statement meant he knew something she didn't. She prepared to ask when he pulled her off the chair, guiding her to he centre of the room. “Close your eyes, and keep them closed.”
She did as asked, and was rewarded with a passionate kiss. He pulled away, and she kept her eyes shut. The door opened, and the laughter from the twins died away. She sensed another in the room, but couldn't place it. She then felt a hoof pull her close, large wings enveloping her. “Oh my daughter, it has been too long.”
Luna's eyes snapped open and she stared at the large white alicorn, red mane floating lightly and tears in her light blue eyes. “M-m-m-mother?”
“Yes Luna, it is I.” She couldn't help it, and Luna threw her arms around her mothers neck, sobbing her eyes out. Flame and Sky ran over and jumped on her back, holding on tightly. “Come Luna, calm yourself.” At length she pulled away, wiping the tears away. “Now, who are these two?”
She pulled them down and sat them on the floor in front of her, smiling proudly. “Mother, this is Rising Flame and Sky Sapphire, your grandfoals.”
“And I assume he is the father?” Luna frowned at the disapproving glance she was giving Alec, and returned a glare of her own.
“Yes, my husband of almost eight years is the father. Is that a problem?”
“No, that is fine. It's just I wasn't aware of another male alicorn. Ever.”
“Perhaps I can answer that for you ma'am.”
“Alec...” He came over and draped a wing across her back, nuzzling her cheek.
“No Luna, if she wants to test me, than she can test me. I love you and our children, and as you already know, nothing will split us apart.”
“I am glad to hear it Sergeant.” Their mouths dropped open in shock, how had she known that? “Oh, relax. I knew of you the moment you entered our atmosphere. It's a shame you did not find me first, as I could have sent you to your kind.”
“Now hold on a fuc.. damn minute here. I had the chance to go with them, and I stayed. The only reason? To make your daughter happy. If you don't like that, you can get the hell off of my ship!” Luna was torn, wanting to be with her mother after so long apart, but agreeing with everything he said. They glared at each other before her mother's face twitched, slowly turning into a smile and then she started laughing. Alec's face turned to one of confusion.
“You chose well, my daughter. Alec, come forward.” He did so slowly, and she placed her horn upon his. There was a white glow for a few moments before she pulled away, still smiling. “I see what you have been through, and what you have done for your family. I am proud to call you part of mine.”
“Thanks... er, mum?”
“That will suffice. Now, how about I leave you to get settled, and we shall converse more in the morning?”
“Actually mother... I was wondering, would you like to spend time with your grandfoals? I would like to talk to my husband... alone!” She recognised that tone, and trotted over to the two foals.
“Hello, I am Faust, your mother's mother. Would you talk with me?” They looked up to Luna, who nodded with a smile, and followed her over to a couch. Luna then fixed Alec with a glare and pushed him out the door. She noted a bit of paper on a door, their combined cutie marks upon it. She shoved him towards it, and slammed it shut once they were inside.
She approached him and smiled sweetly, then slapped him hard. “That was for speaking to my mother like that!” She then pulled him close for a passionate kiss, pushing him on to bed afterwards and jumping on to his chest. “And this... is for standing up to her.”
Luna awoke to a wonderful smell drifting in through the door, and rolled over to wake Alec, but he was not there. She looked up to find the door ajar, and then the sound of booming and squealing laughter came through it. She got up and went out to the common room, where she found her family almost crying with laughter. “Pray tell, why are you making such a racket so early?”
Alec just took one look at her and burst out with more laughter. She trotted over and glared down at him. “Luna...” She turned around to look at her mother, who had a smile on her face. “... we were just discussing your foalhood. Remember when your magic flared, and you both decreased the moon's size and brought it a little closer than you were supposed to?”
Her expression changed a little, which cause Alec to pull her close for a good morning kiss, and she let out a sigh as she melted into his peaceful embrace. All of which was shattered by two highly energetic foals rushing in and jumping on them. Faust watched as they then gave out squeals of laughter from their tickling, and ran over to take over beneath her wings. “Well mother, it seems they have accepted you back. Pray tell, what will you do now?”
“Well, I'm going to let your family have your holiday and go see Tia. Do not worry, I will still be in Canterlot upon your return.” With that she hugged the twins and lit her horn, disappearing in a flash. Flame and Sky looked round confused before the colt's stomach let out a rather large rumble.
“He he, breakfast anyone?”
Captain Warper of the Solar Guard left Celestia's bed chambers, ready for his day at work. He ignored the snickers from the others patrol the halls, responding with a glare. All it took was for one guard to pop in unannounced on their... private meetings and the whole castle knew within a day. So what if his predecessor had the same experience, he was glad for it.
Coming up to the throne room, he checked the court appointment list and smiled, it would only be half a day. He pushed the doors open without a care and then stopped as he saw another seated upon Celestia's throne. “Guards, intruder!”
They came rushing in, horns glowing and spears pointing at the mystery pony, who just regarded them with amusement. She stood and made her way down from the dais, Warper noting that she was an alicorn, and raising his guard even more. She stopped in front of him and pointed with a hoof. His gaze followed, and he looked at the painting above the doors facing the throne, then back to the pony. Then back the painting.
He did this a few more times before tearing out of the room, leaving a host of confused guards. Celestia stepped out from her shower and dried off, starting to place on her tools of office. She was about to put her crown down gently when the door slamming open caused it to drop. She rubbed the area gently and turned to see who it was. “Warper, that is no way to enter a lady's room. Please try again.”
“Can't, emergency! You, throne room, now!” she didn't bother to ask him to elaborate, merely jumping up and galloping alongside him. The sound of laughter caused them to stop, and they entered to find the guards rolling on the floor and clutching their sides. A projector was sending light onto a wall, and Celestia's cheeks turned pink as she saw the photo.
“Now there's that adorable blush. Do you remember this day, when you got your first necklace?” The voice belonged to somepony it shouldn't, and even as she turned around, she still couldn't believe it.
“M-m-mother, is it really you?”
“Yes Tia, it is I.” Captain Warper looked between the two and then back at the painting. The guards erupted with more laughing as he considered the implications.
“Oh... buck.”
Captain Defiant Moonlight stood at the ariship port, watching as the Polaris slowly approached. They had been away for a month, and he was glad they were back. Except this time he would be delivering some very unwanted news. He waited for it to be secured and boarded, heading towards the front of the ship. The only reason he knew the layout was because Alec had insisted, and that's who was looking for. Entering the common room, he bowed quickly and stood at attention. “Your majesties, welcome home.”
“Thank you Captain. Pray tell, why do you look like the bearer of bad news?” Alec came trotting in with the foals on his back, all smiling. Moonlight took a deep breath and continued.
“He's back. There has been a sighting of Warding Spear in Canterlot.”
“What the hell do you mean he's back? He's supposed to be on Earth!”
“I don't know what to tell you sir, Blazing Petal said he assisted her in stopping an assault. There have been other sightings as well.”
“Well you'd best be sure, I don't want to start a hunt because of rumours ponies are making up!”
“I assure you Warding Spear is dead, and your rumours are quite wrong.” They all whipped their heads up to the speaker, whose face was hidden by a hood, their body by a cloak. Luna lit her horn and pulled the hood down, revealing the burnt, one eyed face of a stallion. One that should be dead. He knelt down and closed his eye, bowing low to the floor. “If you wish to destroy this body, then please do so.”
Alec walked over and around him once, a grim look on his face. He stared into the one eye for a good few moments before turning to Moonlight. “Arrest him.”
The stallion saw a back hoof raised before it connected with his head, send him to the floor unconscious.
The slow drip of water slowly roused Warding Spear and he cracked open his eye, finding himself in complete darkness. He turned his head and smiled at the bars, having expected to see them. He initially thought they over reacted, but with what he had done, who could blame them? Sunlight began to stream through the small window, indicating what time of day it was. He got the feeling of being watched, and turned to the corner of the dungeons, bowing to the floor. “Princess Celestia.”
She stepped forward into the light of a lantern, a stern look upon her face. She looked over his form, taking in the scars, burns and lost eye. There was a look of sympathy in her eyes as she would never consider doing this to one of her little ponies. She expected him to last not even a day, but here he was, several months later, alive and... almost well. “Warding Spear, why have you returned?”
“That is no longer my name, your majesty. And I had to leave, the humans were reclaiming their world. Any others in their systems were already inhabited.”
“So you came home?”
“No... I can never truly come home.” He looked around the cell, sitting back on the bed. “I guess I should get use to my new one then, huh? Unless you plan to carry out the full punishment.”
“We will discuss that at a later date. For now, breakfast. I will not have it said that I treat those imprisoned here badly.” She turned and left, a very nervous servant taking her place. She slowly trotted over and placed a tray of food on the floor, nudging it under the gap. Spear waited until she left before falling upon it.
Sweat dripped from the stallions muzzle as he pressed the button, summoning a new target. There was a flash from his horn, a bright beam of light hitting it dead centre and making it explode. A shout from the entrance bit him pause with a hoof raised. “ALEC, CALM DOWN! YOU ARE SCARING OUR FOALS!” His fur wast matted, his mane and wings were hanging limp, and he was breathing heavily. They were currently in the guards training room, where they found him in the magic fighting aisle.
It was clear that he had previously used the gym sections for the pegasi and earth ponies, judging by the way it was all over the place. At the end of the spell section were hundreds of destroyed targets. He turned to look at Luna briefly, before lighting his horn and hitting the button again. She put the foals down and approached slowly, placing a hoof over his back. The glow dissipated and he looked at her again, placing his forehead against hers.”I'm... sorry. It's the only thing that's helping right now.”
“Come, you need your rest. You've been in here all night.” He looked around at the destruction caused and shook his head.
“It's a good thing you already fund this gym, otherwise I'd be working twenty four seven for years.”
“Yes it is. Now come.” She gave a tug on his hoof, and there was a little resistance at first, but then he followed, and they collected the twins as they left. It was a short walk to their rooms, but he stopped as they passed a window, staring at one of the shadowed corners. Luna stopped a moment and looked herself, before flicking her tail over his muzzle.
He gave her a tired smile and carried on walking, heading straight to their bedroom. He flopped on to their bed with Sky held between his fore hooves, giving her cheek a nuzzle. Luna set Flame down at the end of the bed, and lay down next to Alec. Flame came over and nestled between them. “Luna... what are we going to do about this?”
“How do you mean?”
“Well, it's him, no doubt, but... he's changed. I can see it in his eyes. Or eye.” Luna gave a small chuckle at that, running her hoof through Flame's mane. “Anyway, it's not the Warding Spear we know. Earth changed him, for worse or better... I don't know. But I want to find out.”
“It is clear he has a reason, but for what, I do not know.” She gave him a quick kiss on the cheek and lay down against his chest, content to let the day go by.
Captains Warper and Defiant Moonlight trotted towards the dungeons together to begin the... 'questioning' of Warding Spear. Nothing was said between the two, and they just nodded to the other guards. They entered the top level of cells and headed towards the stairs when the sound of movement came from above them. They stopped moving and stared at each other for a moment, when one of the ceilings panels hit the floor.
They had no time to react as a pony dropped through and quickly subdued them, turning for the stairs. They got to the lowest level and headed towards the only light showing. Once there, they looked at the pony lying on the cot, speaking with a female voice. “Warding Spear, I've come to get you out!”
He turned his head and stared into the mare's eyes, before looking away again. “That is not me, I do not know of such pony. You may leave now.” There was the sound of the lock being opened, followed by the door, and then a set of orange eyes filled his vision. The mare gave him a confused smile and lay down across his chest, wrapping her fore hooves around him.
“You are Warding Spear, and I am getting you out of here.” She got back up and grabbed one of his hoof, pulling him towards the cell door. Once almost out of it he snapped his hoof away, remaining on the inside and locking the door. The mare whipped round and glared at him. “What are you doing? This is your only chance for freedom!”
“If the memories I have are true, then I do not deserve freedom.” He moved back and sat on the bunk, meeting her with a challenging gaze. She stamped her hooves in frustration, before turning around and trying to buck the bars out of the way. She tried a few times before a shout from down the hall got her attention.
“For buck sake, Petal! What the that hay has gotten into you?” She gave one last look at the stallion before running in the opposite direction. Having been a guard, she knew how to get out of there after all. The two captains skidded to a stop outside his cell, both surprised to see him still there. It grew even more as he trotted over and push the keys through the bars, returning to sit on the bed.
“You may now begin, captain.” Moonlight raised an eyebrow at the comment, slowly picking the keys up.
“Begin what, exactly?”
“The interrogation, of course.” He waited for Captain Warper to catch up before unlocking the cell door.
Alec opened his eyes and glanced at the clock, sitting up with shock. How could he have slept until two in the afternoon? How could Luna let him do that? And why hadn't the twins tried to wake him? He got up and left his room, seeing them sat on the couch, Luna reading to the foals. He trotted over, but stopped when the twins moved back, pressing closer to their mother. She shook her head slowly, and he headed in to the bathroom instead.
After a quick shower, he re-entered to see Luna sat at the table, and the foals missing. With a wave of her hoof she beckoned him over to the other chair, and he followed willingly. He took a seat but didn't meet her gaze, staring at the foal's doors. “They do not want to see you at the moment.”
“Why?”
“You scared them, more so than when they get in trouble. And you scared me too.” His head whipped round and he stared at her. “Even when you first arrived, I did not fear you, but after watching you in the training room... Please, never get like that again.” She dropped her gaze to the table, not looking up as his chair moved. She felt a hoof wrap around her and pull her close.
“I promise not to let my temper get the better of me ever again.” She looked up to meet his soft smile, pressing her lips against his. The moved over to a couch where Alec lay down, letting Luna rest upon his chest. Neither of them had spotted the other two alicorns standing in the main doorway.
“Luna, what is going on?” She looked round to see Celestia stood above them, Faust a bit further behind. Alec and Luna shared a quick glance, before moving into a sitting position. “Anyway, I have some... news for you. Could mother take Flame and Sky for a while?”
“Let me guess, Spear? What's he done now?” Celestia's mouth dropped open in shock at Luna, as far as she was aware they didn't know. Flame's door cracked open, and the twins peeked out. Upon seeing their father next their mother, they slowly trotted over, Sky carrying a card on her back. They sat in front of the couch and passed it up to Alec, who floated it in front of him and Luna. It was a drawing of the family on an airship. Well, as best as two seven year olds could do. The words 'we're sorry daddy, please don't be angry' were written underneath it.
He placed the card on the side and bent forward to pick them up, but stopped as they flinched slightly. He leant back against the couch and tapped his lap, giving them the choice to approach. Sky was the first to move, followed by Flame moments later. Alec wrapped his fore legs around them and pulled them close. “You don't have anything to be sorry for. Me however... I'm sorry you had to see me like that, and I promise not to get like that again, okay?”
Sky stood up in his lap and kissed his cheek, then nuzzled against it. Flame just nodded. Alec passed them to Luna and stood, motioning Faust to follow. She did so as he led her out of the room. They trotted along for a good ten minutes, nothing being said, before he pushed through a door and revealed his 'office'. It was more of a place where he could just get some alone time. No, not like that, although it didn't stop Luna from trying... and succeeding. He used magic to light some candles and gestured her to the large lounger in the corner. “So, how much do you know about him?”
“Only what Tia has told me.” He shifted round in his desk for something, pulling out a bottle of dark brown liquid. Two glasses followed, as well as ice. He filled them about two fifths of the way, placed the ice in, and floated one over to Faust, where she gave it a tentative sniff. “Pray tell, what is this drink?”
“Whiskey. But not the pony kind. This is human strength.”
“Are you trying to get me drunk, husband of my daughter?”
“No ma'am, I'm not. I mean, yeah, you're an attractive mare, but my heart and body belong to Luna, and nopony else. I thought we had clarified this?”
“True, but you are... hard to read. So tell me more of this 'Warding Spear'.” She took a sip of the drink, relishing the burn as it went down her throat. Alec smirked as she gave it an evil eye, as if it was created to torture ponies tongues. Alec took a sip of his own drink, downing it all with a satisfied sigh.
“To be perfect honest, I didn't even know he existed until he foalnapped Sapphy, and then tried to kill us both. Of course, that's when I found out he also tried to rape Luna.”
“So why do you think he has come back?” He turned back around and refilled his glass, skipping the ice this time. He trotted over and sat in a plush chair opposite her, putting the drink on the small table next to it.
“Apparently, the human race is taking back Earth, my home world. And they wouldn't want somepony like him around. To be honest, I expected him to buy it on the first day. Tenacious bastooow!”
She gave a giggle as his flank lit up with electricity, knowing exactly what spell that was. After all, she was the one to invent it, using it on Polaris when Celestia was born. She wiped away a tear as she thought about her late husband for the first time in millenia. “Hey, what's the matter?”
“It's... nothing to worry yourself about. It is something that I, and only I, can carry. I will not burden you with it.” Alec picked his drink up, levitating it half way to her, and she did the same, clinking them together. They pulled them back downed them.
“Damn, that hit's the spot. Anyway, I suppose it's time I go have a... chat with him. Good thing I don't have access to the cells.” Before either could move, the doors swung open, and Equestria's resident asshole walked in.
“Hey Alec, I was wondering if you want to go to The Best Plot this week...”
“DISCORD!” Alec had barely enough time to put up a shield as Faust's horn glowed brightly, and then an explosion followed.
Luna galloped towards the sound of the explosion, hoping that Alec hadn't said anything to anger her mother. She turned the final corner to see dust coming out of Alec's office, and slowly made her way over. A quick glance showed her mother scowling, Discord singed, but no sign of her husband.
A groan from the corridor drew her attention, and she trotted out to see Alec embedded in the wall. She started to giggle as he slowly slid out, hitting the floor in a messy pile. Luna rolled him over and brushed the dust off his muzzle. “Owwww. Remind me to never piss off your mother. Ever.”
“Luna, come here now.” She left Alec to lie in imaginary pain, knowing that without a shield at the range, he would have been obliterated. She re-entered the room and stood in front of her mother. “Can you please tell me what that is doing here?”
Luna tilted her head to look at the charred draconequus, who had a blank expression on his face. A groaning Alec entered, shaking his head. “Sorry dude, but why would I go to The Best Plot when I have a wonderful wife right here, in this room.”
She then realised just why her mother was annoyed, and nuzzled Alec's cheek. “That is very flattering, darling. Besides...” She decided to test him now. She didn't mind him going, because he always came home to her. “...the models at Flankers are much more attractive.”
“Yes, yes they are.” His eyes went wide as he realised what he just said. “Um... I mean, I have never heard of nor seen such an establishment, and even if I did, I would certainly not be a patron there. With my own private boo... yeah, I'm sleeping on the couch tonight.”
“If you'd just tell me what's going on, perhaps I can assist!” The guard that was patrolling through the cell block ignored Warding Spear as he went past. Spear just sighed in annoyance. Surely whatever had happened required help, and he wasn't planning on escaping anyway. The explosion that went off a few hours ago had shaken him up, bringing some bad memories to the surface.
Before he could attempt further conversation, there was the sound of commotion from the stairs, and he leant against the bars, managing to see a good ten guards struggling with a single pony. Their legs were shackled, wings restrained, and a hood placed over them. Judging by the muffled noises, Warding summarised that the pony was also gagged.
The guards selected the cell opposite his, attaching a chain from the rear shackles to the wall at the back. One by one they backed away, locking the cell. A unicorn guard used his magic to remove the hood, revealing the mare that had tried to break him out. “Now, if you promise to be a good filly, we can remove the gag.” He did as said, unbuckling the strap, and pulling it out of her mouth.
“You motherbuckers! How dare you do this to me! When I get out of here, I'm going to buck you all uppphhh!” She was unceremoniously gagged again, and the guards trotted away. She bent round at what Spear could only guess was an uncomfortable angle, using the edges of her restrained wings to undo the gag and then spit it out. She then looked at him, and tried to move forward, but she couldn't make it halfway to the bars, leaving her with a outstretched fore hoof.
He gave her a tired smile, cantering back and sitting on his bed, motioning for her to do the same. She instead tried to pull further away, but after a moment caved, moving to the back of the cell. “So, tell me, why are you now my only neighbour in here?” She gave a snort of amusement, as if she thought it was obvious.
“You should remember, you were a guard as well. I tried to break you out of the royal dungeons, a crime punishable by six months imprisonment. Anyway, now that we're both here, we can talk.”
A guard came past with food for them both, slipping them under the bars. He used his magic to move Petal's into a place where she could reach it, and they both ate in silence. Once done, Spear placed his tray near the bars and took a seat once more. “Well then, what do you want to talk about?”
“You haven't used my name... do you... not remember me?” There was a hint of sadness and regret in her voice.
“I... remember you face, but no, not your name.”
“Well then, my name is Blazing Petal.”
“It is a pleasure to meet you, Miss Petal. As for me, I have no name of which to speak, although I think I was referred to as 'oh great winged one' by a small tribe of humans. Until another lot came over and attacked, which resulted in my burn scars.”
“No, your name is Warding Spear. Everypony keeps telling you that, so it must be true!”
“MY NAME IS NOT WARDING SPEAR! HE DIED DOWN THERE, AND I REPLACED HIM! I DO NOT WANT THAT NAME ANY MORE!” His shouting drew the guards, who came running with spears and horns ready. “My apologies, I just wanted to clarify something.”
“Well, you didn't have to tell the whole castle.” The guards parted and bowed, Petal doing the same, as Alec came forward. He rolled his eyes at their actions, ignoring it and standing in front of the cell. The door was opened and Spear stood still as shackles were placed around his hooves. “Well, come on then. Time for a talk.” They started to walk away, when Alec noticed the mare opposite. “Celestia will deal with you.”
They met up with another group of guards that surrounded them, heading up the stairs. Petal let out a sigh as she crawled on to her bed, trying to get into a comfortable condition. She heard metallic clinking as all but one of her shackles were removed. It remained firmly attached to the wall.
Chapter 09: Dreams, they are confusing. Also, bath time!
The walk through the corridors of Canterlot Castle was silent, even the guard's armour making no noise. They passed Alec's office, a bunch of ponies going in and out. The words 'AB & Pip's Builders & Painters' was written over their overalls. Spear realised that this was where the explosion came from, and Alec went into a door on the opposite side. This led to Luna's private library, where he opened a secret passage.
After around another hour of walking, which had to be slow due to the shackles, they emerged on a balcony over looking Canterlot. Spear flinched when he felt something near his hoof, and then blinked in surprise as the shackles were removed. The guards stepped back and stared at him. “That will be all, you can go now.”
They glanced nervously at each other, then one saluted, closing the door as they left. Alec gestured with a hoof to one of the seats, and Spear sat down, worried about what was going on. No pony was around, so this might be it for him. And he wouldn't run. “Drink?”
“Why are you being nice to me? I... tried to kill your daughter. I tried... to kill you. It doesn't make any bucking sense!”
“So, cider then.” A bottle was slid over the table to him, top already off. “Don't worry about trying to fly away. If you get two hundred metres away from here, you'll hit an energy net, loosing the ability to fly. And it's a long way down without wings, I know from experience. Now then, how was Earth?”
“Dismal. It rained nearly everyday. The place I was in was ridiculously wet.”
“Where were you?”
“Initially, a place called 'Plym-outh', but that was a bust. I spent most of my time in 'Lon-don'.”
“You... saw Plymouth? What kind of state was it in?”
“It was more of a tomb than a city. Nearly every building was levelled. Why do you ask?”
“Because that's my home town. Damn. Okay, so what about London?”
“Full of humans, most of whom wanted to eat me. There was one tribe that seemed to worship me though. Gave me food and shelter for a month until others burnt the building down with us inside. I couldn't save any of them.”
“And why would you?”
“I... have already stated that I am no longer that pony. I had... come to care about them. In a way, I was adopted into their family. It was something I yearned for, but you know how he bucked it up.”
“So what made you come back here, other than them reclaiming their world.”
“I... don't know. When there, I just hoped it would be over quickly. But around the two month point, there was something else... something in the back of my mind, willing me to survive. I can't explain it any more than that. I know you don't believe me, but I don't believe it myself. As for returning to Equestria... the only other worlds in their database were already inhabited, or not suitable. This was my only choice.”
“Okay. Why did you present yourself to Luna and I as soon as we returned?”
“I knew my presence here was detected, so I thought it would be best to find you before you found me. I am honestly surprised to be alive right now.”
“But you don't sound relieved about it. Why?”
“Because my punishment was death, and I am still here.”
“Well, finish your drink. We're about to find out if you have really changed.”
“What do you mean?” Alec said nothing and motioned to the cider. Spear was a little hesitant at first, but slung it back. Once finished Alec waved him over to the balcony and began to glide to the gardens, so he followed. Once there, he saw a sqaud of guards ready, and six mares. Five had on gold necklaces and one had a crown on, all in the shapes of their cutie marks. “The Elements Of Harmony? How will they help?”
Again Alec said nothing, walking over to Twilight and having a quick conversation. Spear stood fast as she closed her eyes, the jewels beginning to glow. Her eyes opened, themselves being completely white, and a rainbow beam shot forth, impacting his chest and sending him skidding. His vision was filled with black spots which slowly became whole as his body collapsed.
A doctor ran over and gave him a check, nodding to say he was still alive. Some guards came over to pick him up, but the doctor gave a start and called out to a nurse for Spear's notes. He scanned them quickly and then looked between Spear's rear legs. Alec came over and spoke to the nurse. “What's got him worried?”
“Well, this stallion's notes say he is gelded.”
“So?” The doctor lifted one of his rear legs up.
“Would a gelded stallion have these?” Alec's eyes went wide with surprise at something that should not be there.
“Blazing Petal, front and centre!” The mare marched out and snapped to attention, throwing up a salute and then bowing in front of Celestia. “Rise.” She did so, focusing on the bottom step, not the pony on the throne, who she knew was about to address her.
“Blazing Petal, you stand accused of attempting to break Warding Spear out of the dungeons. How do you plead?”
“Both guilty and not guilty, your majesty.” There was a hush of surprise through the guards, which Celestia stopped with a stamp of her hoof, culling them back into silence.
“Do not make a mockery of me! Explain yourself this instant!”
“I am guilty of attempting to break a pony out, but not guilty of trying to free Warding Spear.”
“Yet there was only one occupant of the dungeons at this time. So who else was it?”
“He has no name, your majesty, even if he inhabits the same body.” One of the legal aides approached and had a conversation with Celestia, who shook her head.
“I have just been informed that unless you can give an alternate name, the charges still stand. Did he tell you one?”
“No, he did not. But if I may?”
“Go on.”
“He didn't want to escape. In fact, he pushed me out and locked the door from the inside. Tell me, would the Warding Spear you know do such a thing?” Before she could answer, a multi-coloured flash came through the windows.
“We will know soon enough if he speaks the truth. But that is not why we are here. You have admitted guilt for trying to break Ward... this stallion out of prison, and yet I quote from this transcript of his previous trial. On the day in question, I asked how you felt about him, and your reply was 'he is dead to me'. If that were true, why would you try this now?”
“I may have... lied about that.”
“I know.” Celestia smirked at the shocked expression on Petal's face. “Cadence isn't the princess of love for no reason, you know. And I believe that is what we have here, a crime of passion. I am also aware that you are currently unemployed?”
“Yes your majesty, I have enough savings to survive for at least six years. Hopefully I'll have something by then.”
“It will not be needed. For your punishment, you will be remanded in custody here at the castle. If you refuse your task, you will suffer the correct punishment for your actions. Do you understand?”
“Yes, your highness.”
“Good. Now your first task. Head to the infirmary and ensure that the stallion formerly known as Warding Spear has a wash. He stinks. And if he refuses, you are to do it forcibly.” The guards started snickering, and Petal's head dropped, realising how far she had fallen.
“And what are you two doing up still?”
“We're being monster hunters!” Alec said nothing as Flame and Sky continued to creep around the room, checking every nook and cranny. He was about to ask what kind of monsters when the curtain twitched and snapped Flame up, causing him to squeal with laughter. Sky moved away and was pulled under the tablecloth, having the same done to her.
They were replaced by Scootaloo and Rumble, who sat on the couch opposite Luna. Alec sat next to her, soon followed by the twins. “Excuse me, Mr Luckes?”
“Yes Rumble?”
“You know those pills... where can we get more?”
“We've been gone just over a month, and you've run out all ready?” The colt swallowed nervously at the piercing glare.
“It's not my fault, Scoots really likes it when we... have our special cuddle.” The fact the foals were listening made them choose their words carefully. Alec had a whispered conversation with Luna before she rose and took the foals to their room.
“Scootaloo, I'm not trying to run you life, it's just that you've got plenty of time for a foal, and I want you to have some fun first.”
“I understand, Dash didn't have Prism till she was twenty three. Even then, I don't when I'll be ready.”
“You'll know, Scoots, trust me. Anyway, two more things. Firstly, the pills. Ask in the infirmary, they'll give them to you.” Scootaloo bounced in place, pressing closer to Rumble, who just looked confused.
“But I thought you had to be eighteen to purchase them? I know that's how Spike got them.”
“True, but what responsible adult would allow a child to do so unprotected? I'd rather mine was using protection, instead of an unwanted child. Not that those two are going to ever going to get in that situation.”
“So, that's cool. What's the other thing?”
“Ah yes, that. I was meant to give this to you on your birthday. Before you say anything I did not use my position to get this for you, I merely showed them a video of you two practising.” He passed a white envelope marked with blue wings and a lightning bolt. This made them both nervous and excited. For Rumble, it meant a chance to spend more time with his big brother, and for Scootaloo a dream come true.
They cracked it open and Scootaloo began to read it. “'Dear Miss Scootaloo Dash and Mr Rumble Lane, after reviewing footage of your acrobatic skills, it is my displeasure to inform you that we cannot accept you into training for the Wonderbolts'. Hey, what kind of joke is this?” She waved the letter at Alec, who's smirk clashed with her glare.
“Just keep reading.”
“'Such moves are inspiring, but not what we are currently looking for. That said, we would like to offer you both a place on the Juniorbolts, out Wonderbolt Youth Team. You will be taught alongside older recruits, but will not have the same rigorous training.' We're... going to be Wonderbolts?”
“No quite, you've still got to prove you've go what it takes. Now I have a wife that I need to talk to, and you two have packing to do.” They jumped down from the couch and walked towards the door, Rumble holding it open for Scootaloo, who brushed her tail across his muzzle on the way out. Alec let out a little chuckle as his wings flapped out of sync. “Oh, Rumble, on more thing.” The colt turned his head, but not his eyes. “The infirmary is the other way to your room for the evening. I trust you know which way to go first.”
He tore out the door in the opposite direction to Scootaloo, who laughed at his eagerness, which trailed off the further she got. Alec got up and headed to a closet, where he pulled a pillow and blanket out, using his magic to close the door and then laid down on the couch. He closed his eyes and tried to go to sleep, not noticing Luna approach, until she slipped under the blanket and lay on top of him, looking down with a grin. “So my dear husband, what did you want to talk to me about?”
“Well, you know that gelded stallion... he may need to be gelded again.”
“But... that's impossible! What the buck happened out there?”
“Well... your mother might or might not have suggested using the Elements on him to see if he really has changed. The only thing that did is that he now has a ball bag once again.”
“I... see. Do you know of the punishment Celestia has given Blazing Petal?” Alec shook his head and shrugged. “She has become an indentured servant at the castle for three months. I believe she is currently tasked with looking after Warding Spear's needs. Stop smirking like that, I do not mean like that!”
“Like what, exactly?” She bent her head down close to his muzzle, dropping a hoof down and pressing it firmly on the base of his wing, causing him to let out a gasp.
“Like that... still sure you want to sleep on the couch?”
“You know, I've got two thing to say about that.” She brought up her hoof again and ran it through the fur on his chest.
“Please, tell me.”
“Well, why don't you join me?”
“And the other?”
“If I said you had a beautiful body, would you hold it against me?” She had already felt the other reaction taking place, and dove in with a lick to his horn, causing him to scrunch his eyes in pleasure. “Oh, so that's how it's going to be?” He flipped over so that he was on top and lunged forward, taking a small but firm bite on her ear, causing her to pull him close with her hooves wrapped around his neck.
Flame awoke and glanced at the clock, noting he had only been asleep for twenty minutes. His throat was rather dry, so he hoped out of bed to go get a drink. He cracked open his door and crept along the shadows, making it to the kitchen without being seen by those in the light. After a drink, he tried to return, but his mother's breathless voice bid him pause. “Oh...buck....yes! I... do... so love... your tongue!”
Curious, he trotted over and peeked round the couch, not comprehending what was going on, so, like any inquisitive colt would do, asked. “Daddy, why are you lying under mommy the wrong way?” The stallion looked up in shock, his muzzle wet for some reason, before he covered them both with a blanket.
“Flame, go to your room, I'll be there in a few minutes and we'll talk, okay?”
“Okay daddy.” He slunk back away, and they waited until the door latched before uncovering themselves.
“Well, that could've gone worseaahh.” Luna had suddenly bitten down on him, a sign that he should continue. Instead he rolled her off of him, draping the blanket over his back, and another over Luna. “That was evil. You, on the bed, waiting.” She poked her tongue out, dropping the blanket and swinging her tail as she walked away, swaying her hips. Alec tried his best to collapse his wings and stop his horn glowing. “Stupid, sexy Luna.”
He entered Flame's room and sat on the bed, pulling the colt next to him. This was a little too young for him to be told, but Alec couldn't out right lie. “So, Flame... what have you learnt in you extra studies?”
“Cousin Twilight has been teaching us about the animal kingdom.”
“And has she reached where they come from yet?”
“Yes, but she went all quiet and pink when I asked about foals for some reason. Do you know daddy?”
“Yes, and that is what I want to talk to you about. You see, ponies and animals, in this regard, are not that different. Where we are is that we enjoy it. Animals... well, nopony has found out yet. But what Twilight has taught you isn't everything we can do. What you just saw...” Ten minutes later Alec left the traumatised colt to try and get to sleep.
He entered his room where a blindfold was levitated over his eyes. "I am not quite ready. Give me a moment. So, how did he take it?”
“He is going to need therapy for the rest of his life. Oh, and if we go for dinner in a restaurant, don't say 'we're going to eat out'. It might give him nightmares.”
“Hmm, eat out? That sounds like a good idea. Come, you may take that off now.” He did so, looking over to the bed, but seeing nopony there. “Over here.” He turned his head to the side, seeing Luna in front of a roaring fire, letting his mouth curl in to a grin, and his wings to spread.
“Yeah, this is going to be good tomorrow when we meet their new teacher. 'What are those marks?' 'Carpet burns.' Yeah... that's going to go well. Ah, screw it.” With that he pounced on Luna, rolling her over to carry on.
Warding Spear slowly came awake to a strange sensation. He was laying on his front, legs splayed out, and his left wing felt damp. Then his right wing was soaked, followed by something brushing through it. Once done, a towel was placed on it and rubbed vigorously. After having no such stimulation for years, and considering what had happened to him, the other sensation he had was not possible. He sat up and looked between his legs. “Well, there's something you don't see everyday.”
“I used to.” The mares voice made him yelp, and he pressed back against the mattress, looking over his shoulder to find Blazing Petal with a wash cloth in her hoof. “Anyway, roll over so I can wash you front.”
“No.”
“This is an order from Celestia, not a request. If I don't do this, I go to jail. Now, roll over!” He did so, but snatched the cloth away and washed himself, before covering up with a blanket. “Fine, if you want to be that way! It's not like I haven't seen it before!”
“But that was him, not me.”
“Right, of course. Mr bucking bi-polar! Don't you... remember anything about us?”
“I know you're important. I only had two dreams whilst there, one a nightmare, and the other was peaceful, complete darkness with just a set of beautiful orange eyes. Your eyes.” He dropped his gaze, staring at his lap in shame whilst waiting for the door to open. Instead he felt a hoof over his, and looked up to see Petal's muzzle inches from his own. “What... what are you doing?”
“Hush now, this might help.” She pressed her lips against his, humming happily whilst his hoof came up and caressed her cheek. She pulled away and then climbed on top of the bed, making sure to stay on top of the blanket.
“And what... are you doing now?”
“Well... my first task is over, and I haven't been told what to do next, so I'll just wait here. You know, to make this bed a bot more comfortable. But I'd really like to know what to call you.”
“I don't have a name.”
“No. You see, what happened before wasn't the real Warding Spear, something changed in him. This right here...” she placed one hoof over his chest and let the other stroke his cheek. “... this is the real Warding Spear.” She pressed against his side and sighed as a reluctant hoof wrapped around her.
Neither of them saw the two smiling white alicorns standing at the door.
Celestia nudged Luna awake and motioned her to follow. They trotted to the throne room and sat upon their thrones. Luna knew this was important by the way they were facing each other. “Why did you wake me Tia?”
“I need your help. Mother and I want to see his dreams, but you are the one who possess the ability.” Faust came out of the shadows and placed a cushion in the floor. “We are asking, not telling. If you do not want to do this, then please tell us.”
“No... I shall do it. But if things become uncomfortable, I will remove us.”
“That is fine Lulu, let us begin.” They touched horns and Luna let the magic flow....
They followed him through the corridors of Canterlot Castle, his armour polished to a high shine. The sound of laughter hit their ears, and they turned to see a blue alicorn filly with a magenta mane staring up at him, a grin on her face. “Good evening, Princess Sapphire. How are you?”
“I'm fine thank you, lieutenant. Tell me, have you seen my brother?”
“I'm afraid that I do not know the current whereabouts of Prince Flame, but rest assured, I will keep an eye out for him.”
“Oh, that won't be necessary.” Before he could reply, something landed on his back, knocking him to the floor. His hooves reached round and sent Rising Flame scampering with a few tickles, looking over to see the filly smiling.
And then things changed. Her face became a fearful one as they watched, and bars appeared between them. Flames sprang unbidden, surrounding the filly. They could see him trying to work out how to help.
An alicorn stallion entered, pulling her to his chest. She'd be fine... and then more bars appeared behind and to the sides of them, a solid sheet of metal clanking down on top. They were trapped, and their magic wasn't working. He tried to reach a hoof through, but the heat was unbearable. The stallion made no noise as he held his sobbing daughter, telling her things would be all right.
A noise behind them made them turn, seeing Princess Luna and prince Rising Flame... out in the garden? Warding Spear tried to get their attention, but they instead remained in place, tears coming down form their eyes as they looked at... two gravestones.
A creaking made them turn back to the cage just in time to see it fall to the floor, throwing up all kinds of items. His face was split down the middle, one of glee and one of horror.
Before Luna could disconnect, the dream reset, beginning the same way except this time he was accompanied by Blazing Petal. They let it play out, and when the first bars appeared, they worked together and got the filly out, just as the floor collapsed. Alec, Luna and Flame appeared, taking Sky and thanking the pair.
Once more the dream changed, this time to complete darkness. A set of orange eyes approached, followed by the face of Petal, who trotted over and nuzzled against Warding Spear. “We will get through this. Together, we will find the strength.”
And with that they found themselves in the throne room once more. “Luna, what was wrong? Why did you end it?”
“I didn't, that was the end. Now if you'll excuse me, I want to check on my foals and be with my husband.”
“Of course, good night Luna.”
“Good night.” With that she left, leaving Celestia and Faust to talk about the events they had seen.
Chapter 10: A history lesson, and the fight you've all been waiting for.
Quick A/N: So one thing I noticed is that I never really established who Warding Spear was. That was bad planning on my part. So guess what this chapter focuses on? Yeah, back story time!
Alec rolled over, confused as to why Luna wasn't there, but not worrying too much. She must have had a reason after all. The slamming of a door caused him to awake fully, galloping in to the main room. He was hit by a blue blur as Luna seemed to melt against his chest, sobbing heavily. Alec guided her over to the couch and sat her next to him, running a hoof through her mane. He would wait for her to calm down, even if it took all night.
After around half an hour she calmed down, but her body was still shaking. Alec pulled her close and nuzzled her cheek. “Luna... what's wrong?”
“I... s-s-saw you die. Sapphy as w-w-w-well.”
“But I'm right here. I'm not dead, and neither is Sky.”
“It s-s-s-seemed so real.”
“Well come on, we'll look in her room. It'll prove she's fine.” He tried to move, but Luna held him in place tightly, shaking her head. Alec sighed, lighting his horn and making part of the wall invisible so they could see Sky's bed. “Look, she's fine, sleeping peacefully. Now why don't you tell me what happened?”
“We... w-w-went into his d-d-dreams. One of them had you... burning with S-s-s-sapphy.”
“So that's what he meant by nightmares. Luna, it's his mind punishing him for what he tried to do. Come on forget about it, and let him suffer from them. It is his penance for his soul.” She sat up then, pulling away so she could look him in the eyes.
“What do you mean, s-s-soul?”
“When we talked, he said the first couple of months he wanted to die, but something in his mind kept him going. Like I said, don't linger on it. Come on, back to bed with you.” He pulled her up, guiding her to their room and lifting the blankets up, ushering her onto the mattress. She waited for him to lie next to her, but was instead rolled on to her front, feeling his hooves press into her back. There was no underlying reason, he just wanted her to know that everything would be fine.
It didn't take long for the snoring to come, and Alec turned the light out with a grin, sliding in behind her and wrapping her with a wing. Come morning he would talk to Warding Spear again, ask about his dreams.
The slamming of a door drew Blazing Petal from sleeping to dozing and, not wanting to get up yet, she pulled her feather blanket over her with her teeth. A pained and surprised yelp forced her to open her eyes, finding a brown wing clenched firmly in her mouth. It was then she remembered where she was, spitting the wing out and jumping out of bed, turning to look at Warding Spear with a blush. “What do you think you were doing? Explain yourself!”
“Sheesh, calm down! It's not like it's the first time I've bitten your wings! Anyway, I thought I was at home and it was my blanket.” She watched as he shifted uncomfortably, and had an idea. “Get dressed and follow me.”
“Why?”
“We're going for a walk.”
“Do you think that they will just let me walk out of here? Don't be ridiculous. I am their prisoner, and so are you.”
“Just... do it will you!” As much willpower that he had, it all shrivelled in the glare she was giving him. He quickly stood and placed his cloak on his back, going to put the hood up, but one of Petal's hooves blocked it. “No, leave it down. Trust me.”
They cautiously peeked out the door, and finding it clear, Petal guided them towards one of the side entrances. It didn't occur to her that it was weird there were no guards chasing them down, and they eventually ended up in a small garden above the castle, a view of the waterfall coming down the mountain. She trotted over to a tree near the edge and sat down, leaning back against it and waving Spear over.
He glanced around and, seeing that they were alone, complied, Petal pressing up against his side. The sound of birdsong drifted up from below, and she let out a regretful sigh. “I brought you up here hoping it would jog your memory, but I don't want to tell you without you trying first.”
He closed his eyes, focusing on the mare next to him and the memories that he could recall...
A brown teenage pegasus colt with crimson eyes looked up from the train station to the pegasi city of Cloudspire. It was his home, and he was leaving all his friends behind, all because his father had landed a managerial job for the weather factories, but it was in Cloudsdale, which covered the Ponyville area.
The train ride was a long two days to Canterlot, where they'd switch to another line. His sister was staying behind, recently married and starting a family of her own, meaning it would just be him, his father and his mother. He briefly wondered what his new school would be like, hoping that the skyball team wasn't full of jerks like his previous one.
Three days later he was setting up in his room, when his parents called him down. They wanted to take a break, and go see the town. He shrugged and followed them out of the door, trotting along with his face to the cloud-floor. By doing so he missed his parents turning off, and ended up bumping in to somepony, knocking them in to a fountain. “Hey!” He looked up to see a cerulean teenage pegasus filly with a rainbow mane and rainbow lightning bolt cutie mark glaring at him. “What do you thing you're doing, huh?”
“I'm sorry, I wasn't looking where I was going.”
“Yeah, well you'd best watch out, because nopony hurts my friends and gets away with it.” He shrank back, not wanting to enrage her further, as she pulled out another filly, this time butter yellow with a pink mane and a trio of butterflies on her flank. “Hey, quit staring!”
“If you weren't shouting, he wouldn't be, Rainbow Dash.” Spear looked around and saw yet another filly. She had a crème coat with a maroon mane, and her eyes... those beautiful orange eyes... “Why don't you and Fluttershy head back to school, before I tell the principal you're skipping out of detention again?” The one called Rainbow huffed in annoyance, guiding her friend away. “Sorry about that, she has good intentions, but can be a little brash. Name's Blazing Petal.” He just stood there, staring at her dumbfounded. “Hey, are you okay?”
“You're... beautiful...”
“What?” He slapped his hoof over his muzzle, quickly turning towards his house and flying away. “Well hello new colt. Monday's going to be interesting."
From that day he spent most of his time avoiding the mare, and for a few months he was extremely successful. He had just gotten out of skyball practice and noticed he wasn't being followed for once. As he turned his head forward again, he slowed down before he hit the team captain. “Hey Cloudspire, where's the fire?”
“I was just going home, I have homework due.”
“That may be the case, as we all do, but you did pretty good out there and earned a reward. Follow me.”
“Okay Hoops.” The flew over to the spectator stand, where Dumb Belle (even though he spelt it 'Bell' on all his forms, he was part of that family.) and Score were waiting. The all sat on the benches overlooking the pitch, and then Spear's ears caught the sound of glass clinking. He looked up to see a bottle of cider being passed his way. “Um, no thanks, I'm not old enough to drink.”
“No old enough to drink! That's a good one! Neither are we, but the way our parents see it is that if we get used to it now, we won't get bucked up when we're of age. Come on, what's the worst that can happen?”
“Well, I could destroy half my house again, costing my mom and dad lots of bits. So if I do have one, it'll just be the one, okay?”
“Buck, that's harsh. Yeah, just one's fair enough.” Spear took the bottle and leaned back for an appreciative mouthful. Two hours later, he was trying to sneak in through the front door, and he made it to the bottom of the stairs before his fathers voice called out.
“Warding Spear, come here.” He trotted into the lounge with his head hanging. “You are late, where have you been?”
“I was hanging with some guys from the team, nothing to worry about,really.”
“Then why can I smell cider?” His head dropped even lower, and he refused to look up. “How many have you had?”
“Three, sir.”
“Don't tell your mother. Now, on to another matter, you have a visitor. They are upstairs waiting for you.”
“Who is it?”
“A surprise, but your mother is overjoyed for some reason. Dinner will be in an hour.” With that Spear once more headed towards the stairs, slowing as he reached his door. It was strange to him, being nervous about going in to his own room, but he swallowed his trepidation and pushed through, his brain rolling to a stop upon seeing the pony on his bed.
“Well, you certainly know how to make a filly wait.” She gave him a small smile, sitting up and tapping the bed next to her. He walked over, sitting on the opposite side with his back to her instead. “Oh come on, don't be like that. Can't I at least know your name?”
“...Warding Spear.”
“I watched you at practice today.” She noted his ears twitch a little. “It was pretty inspiring.”
“Yeah? That's, um... good?” She placed a hoof on his shoulder, spinning him round.
“Look, this is hard for me, okay. I know you've been trying to avoid me for the past few months, but I want to get to know you a bit more.” She pushed him back gently, moving to his side. She pressed closer, her muzzle inches from his own, leaving him breathless. “That is, if you want to know me a bit more.” She closed her eyes, gently bringing her lips to his, and he mirrored her motions, bringing up a hoof and placing it on her back.
“Is that you, Speary? Where have you be.. oh, my!” He pulled back in embarrassment upon seeing his mother standing in his doorway. “Well, hello my dear. I see you've met my son.”
Their relationship was short lived, as Blazing Petal's parent's moved to Canterlot four months later, and he lost all contact with her.
A young stallion made his way towards Canterlot Castle, approaching the guard at the entrance. He quailed a little under the stern gaze, but summoned enough courage to ask his question. “Excuse me, is this the right place to join the Royal Guard?”
The guard gave him a once over, and nodded. “Recruiting stations are through the main entrance, second corridor on the left, fifth door on the right. Thank you for your enquiry.” With that he went back to his stoic position. Warding Spear blinked twice, then headed into the castle grounds. He followed the directions given, counting the doors as he passed them. He got to the fourth one when a shout from a room on the left made him stop.
“JUST WHAT IN THE HAY WERE YOU DOING IN HER QUARTERS?”
“SIR, I WAS CHECKING FOR ANY POTENTIAL THREATS, SIR!”
“IN HER PERSONAL DRAWERS? AND MY REPORT SAYS THAT YOU WERE CAUGHT WITH A PAIR OF HER PANTIES ON YOUR HORN! WOULD YOU LIKE TO EXPLAIN THAT, TRAINEE ARMOUR?”
“SIR, THEY JUMPED OUT AND ATTACKED ME, SIR!”
“THAT'S IT, FIVE HUNDRED LAPS OF THE TRAINING GROUNDS!”
“SIR, IS THAT ALL, SIR?”
“IS THAT ALL? FINE, TWO THOUSAND! MOVE YOUR FLANK ARMOUR!”
“SIR YES SIR!” The door slammed open and a white unicorn stallion came galloping out, a smirk on his face. Spear spotted the pony behind the desk, an officer, who's glare he was caught in.
“YOU! IN HERE, NOW!” He did as instructed standing as still as possible. “You're no one of my trainees, nor a recruit. What are you doing in this part of the castle?”
“I am looking to join the Royal Guard.”
“WHAT WAS THAT?”
“SIR, I AM LOOKING TO JOIN THE ROYAL GUARD, SIR!”
“THEN WHY THE BUCK ARE YOU IN MY OFFICE?”
“SIR, YOU CALLED ME IN HERE, SIR!”
“DID I NOW? Well, good, you can follow a simple instruction. One door opposite and to your left. Have a nice day.” He turned around and walked out of the door, stopping as the officer spoke to him again. “What's your name, colt?”
“SIR, WARDING SPEAR, SIR!” He gave a nod and closed the door with his magic, Spear letting out a breath he didn't know he was holding, taking another one just in time to be bowled over by another pony. Once they stopped spinning, he looked up to see who he was being pinned by, and found himself staring into a set of orange eyes. “Petal?”
“Hello Spear. Long time no see!”
“RECRUIT PETAL, GET OFF THAT CIVILIAN AND FALL IN, NOW!”
“Oh, well off to work I go! See you later?”
“Yeah... in the barracks.” She bent down and gave him a quick kiss, before jumping up and joining her squad, who were all giving her death glares, knowing what was coming.
“OH, SO GOT YOURSELF A COLTFRIEND, EH? WELL, YOU KNOW WHAT THAT MEAN RECRUITS! A WHOLE DAY OF RUNNING! LETS MOVE!” Petal flashed him a quick smile as they streamed into a side garden.
Spear's memories moved forward as a blur until he hit the one with the small garden, where he found Blazing Petal waiting. He slowly cantered over and wrapped her in a wing, pulling her close. She gave a sigh as she melted against his side. “So, what did you get me in trouble for by skipping my patrol?”
“I didn't realise, sorry. I wanted to ask you a question, and I though it would be nice to do it up here.”He pulled away, presenting her with a rose the same shade as her mane. “I wanted to ask if... you'd be my special somepony.” He was bowled over by her once more as she planted him with a passionate kiss...
Warding Spear slowly opened his eye, turning to the mare that was staring up at him expectantly. He wrapped her in his wing and pulled her close, smiling down at her. “I... remember this place, and what I asked you. But... I'm not him, not any more. I'm... different, for better or worse, that remains to be seen.”
“It seems it is for the better.” Their heads whipped round and they stared up at the white alicorn, noting it wasn't Celestia. They didn't know who she was, so didn't know how to react. She trotted over and sat before them, a smile on her face. “You want to know what that voice was inside your head?”
Spear's eyes widened in shock, not knowing how the mare could have known. “If... you know something about that, then please, tell me.”
“It is simple. It was me.”
“You? But... not even Celestia herself has enough power to reach that far! How dare you make such a blasphemous claim!”
“Calm yourself, Warding Spear, for I will tell you. The reason she can not do so is that she doesn't have the ability. I, however do. It was a way to keep track of my armies during the Draconequus Wars.”
“Draconequus Wars? But nopony alive today was there, except the Princesses, and their mother... Is it really you? Queen Faust?”
“Yes, my little pony, it is I.” The pair immediately separated and bowed in awe at being in the presence of a living legend. “Please, I no longer rule these lands, you do not have to bow to me.” They sat up again, not knowing what to say. “The actions you took during your time as a Lunar Guard were not your own. The evil spirit that resided in Luna found a new target in you, which is why I had the Elements used on you. Now, having already rid yourself of the demon, they instead healed what they perceived as a wrong.”
“But... how does that work?”
“I wish I knew, the Elements of Harmony were a mystery even during my time. The legends are not true, Polaris and I did not create them.”
“So... where is the demon now?”
“Well, you rid yourself of it back on Earth, so probably there.”
“We have to warn them, let them know what they are dealing with.”
“They already know, and have a plan for it.”
“How do you know?”
“Whilst in my seclusion, I kept my senses out in the universe. It is a demon from another world, one that is ancient by our world's standards. They feed off negative emotions, and what Luna was feeling at the time must have been seen as a feast. The humans conquered it around three hundred years ago. They know how to fight such a creature. In fact, they are immune to their effects.”
“An immunity to the... nightmare?”
“Yes, it is what gave them victory. When presented with insurmountable odds, these demons take a corporeal form, which can be killed. And humans are very good at doing so.”
“Yeah, we are. It's the only thing we know.” Alec approached from the garden entrance, leaving the guards behind. “What are you two doing up here?” Petal shrank back behind Spear before replying.
“I wanted him to remember us.”
“Did it work?”
“I think so.”
“The guards will escort you back when you are ready, but I want you in the castle grounds before sundown, understood?” Spear bowed down to one knee, nodding his head.
“We will do as commanded, your majesty.”
“Spear, I'm not a prince, so drop the bullshoooww! For fucoow sake Luna!” They all whipped their head round to see Faust rolling on the floor with laughter. “THIS ISN'T FUNNY!”
Celestia trotted through the castle with a frown, finding no guards at their posts. Using her magic she sensed a mass of them clustered in the main garden, which is where she headed. Upon exiting the castle, she found herself looking upon an arena of sorts, with just a ring in the middle. There was a blur of motion down there, complimented by the cheers of the guards.
She spotted Luna and her mother watching with interest, chatting to each other, and decided to go see them. It took her a few minutes, as the guards were more interested in the action, but she made it to the three seats, one being empty. She sat to her mother's left and posed her question. “Just what is going on?”
“A challenge. One that is most entertaining.”
“Mother, I do not appreciate you bringing this tradition back. I want my ponies to know peace.”
“I didn't bring it back, I merely informed them of it.”
“Informed whom, exactly?” Before Faust could reply, Luna leapt from her seat and shouted down to the combatants.
“YES MY HUSBAND, KICK HIS FLANK!” Celestia tore her gaze to the middle, where Warding Spear was getting to his hooves, just in time to counter Alec's attack and send him flying into a wall. “GET UP YOU LAZY BUCKER AND FIGHT!”
“MOTHER! HOW DARE YOU ALLOW HIM TO FIGHT!”
“It wasn't me, Tia. He's Luna's husband, after all.”
“LUNA?”
“He is paying for foalnapping Sapphy. NO, COME AT HIM FROM THE SIDE!” There was a resounded 'ooh' from the crowd as Alec was once more flying through the air under Spear's power. He impacted the dirt and skidded along. The crowd began chanting, but it was who for that shocked Celestia.
“WARDING SPEAR! WARDING SPEAR! WARDING SPEAR! WARDING SPEAR! WARDING SPEAR! WARDING SPEAR! WARDING SPEAR! WARDING SPEAR!” Alec stood once more and smirked, wiping some blood from his muzzle. He spread his wings, Spear doing the same, before they took off and began to clash in the air.
“Why are they cheering for him?”
“Because Aunt Celestia, they have placed bets on who they think will win.” It was then she noticed Rising Flame and Sky Sapphire watching from the row above them.
“Luna...”
“It will do them well to see this.” She looked up to the filly, who was staring hard at Spear.
“Sapphy, what do you think?”
“My daddy is going to kick his flank.” She continued to watch as they traded blows, attacking and blocking, counter attacking and counter blocking.
“Why doesn't Alec just use his magic?”
“It seems you have forgotten the full tradition, Tia.” She turned to her mother with curiosity now. “The rules state that both combatants must have equal or similar abilities. Warding Spear cannot use magic, therefore Alec is not allowed to use it in the fight.”
“And what if he kills Spear?”
“He will not. This fight is not to the death. The first one to fall and not get up loses, unless one yields.”
“I see.” There was a tremendous roar from the crowd as both stallions clashed hard, falling to the dirt at the same time, sending mounds of earth into the air. They both lay there, breathing hard, and the three mares watched as they both struggled to their hooves, nearing their limits. They turned to each other and walked forward, only for Warding Spear to tip forward, face planting the dirt.
There was a chorus of groans from nearly half the guard as a crème pegasus mare ran out to tend to Spear's wounds, at the same time as Luna flew down to Alec. He turned to her and took three steps, then ended up in the same position as Warding Spear. Faust let out a sigh and shook her head, causing Celestia to turn and look at her. “Stallions. Even in over two thousand years, they haven't changed a bit.”
The rhythmic beeping hit Warding Spear's ears as his eye opened, a bright light causing him to wince. The feel of somepony laying next to him made him turn, seeing Blazing Petal pressed against his side. He reach a hoof up and brushed part of her mane from her face, smiling at the look of peace. Peace that was shattered a moment later. “So... you finally woke up?”
He looked across to the other bed, and the grinning stallion with a bandaged wing. There were more dressings all over his body, and one wrapped around his head. There were a number of flower and fruit baskets as well as get well cards on the table next to him. “Are you okay?”
Alec started chuckling, which turned into full laughter until he clutched at his side. “Dude, don't make me laugh, it hurts. I find it funny that you ask after my well being before your own.”
“The table shows that you matter, and that I do not.”
“Really? I think that mare would have something to say about that. Plus.. why don't you look at your own table?” Spear tilted his head, eyes going wide with shock at the single envelope waiting for him. He reached over and picked it up, ripping it open. It had a photo of Canterlot on the cover, and his eyes started to tear up as he read the inside.
'To Warding Spear, get well soon,
Sky Sapphire'
“But... why would she...”
“Because that's who she is.”
“I tried to... oh Celestia, what have I done?” The sound of sobbing roused Petal from her slumber, and she pulled Spear to her chest, running a hoof through his mane. She glanced at the card in his hoof and then over to the other bed, before pushing him into a sitting position.
“Shush, it's okay. Come one, stop crying and smile.”
“Don't say th....” The sound of fast hoof steps came from the corridors, and Alec tried to use his magic to shield them. He didn't manage it in time, the door slamming open to reveal a pink earth pony mare. “Too late.”
“Did somepony say smile?” Pinkie rushed over to Spear's bed, getting uncomfortably close. “Hey, I know you! You're the one whos bits we gave back! So, when are you two having a foal? Oooh, can I do your baby shower?”
“We're... not married.” Pinkie let out a massive gasp as she hovered in the air for a few seconds, hitting the floor with a massive smile.
“Then I can do the engagement party! They'll be cake, and streamers, and balloons, and cider, and...” The list trailed off as she bounced out the room, leaving Alec to chuckle at the blank faces of Spear and Petal.
“Yeah, that's Pinkie Pie. Don't ask. Anyway, heal up, I've got a job for you.”
Surprisingly, Spear's condition was better than Alec's, and he was released two days later. Alec was passed over into the care of Luna, meaning he couldn't get away with anything. So when she entered their bedroom to find him missing, it was fair that she had a scowl on her face. She returned to the main room to find the balcony door open, finding him looking down into the streets of Canterlot with her telescope. “Alec?”
“Oh hey, come look!” He passed the telescope over, and she looked down it to see Flame and Sky looking around the markets. She pulled away and glared at him.
“WHAT ARE THEY DOING OUT THERE ON THEIR OWN?!?!”
“Relax, they're not on their own.” She looked once more, seeing Blazing Petal smiling next to them. Trudging along behind was Warding Spear, weighed down by multiple packages. There were three guards behind him.
“Explain, now.”
“Sky and Flame wanted to go shopping. I couldn't go, and you weren't around.”
“So why not ask Celestia?”
“Busy, another tribe of griffons have appeared in the badlands. The changelings don't like it.”
“But why him?”
“Does it look like he is suffering?
“Yes, it does.”
“Then that's why. Luna, I beat the hay out of him for trying to kill me. Sky wanted to go shopping, hence why he is her personal slave for the day. And Flame wanted a laugh. Look, I'm not entirely fine with the idea either, but if we just keep him locked up in the castle, we'll never see who he really is.”
“And Miss Petal?”
“She's got to look after him for three months, remember?” Luna used her magic to pull out a couch, hooking the telescope up to her little screen. She settled against Alec's least bandaged side and enchanted the telescope to follow Warding Spear around.
“This is going to be fun.” Alec brought a hoof up and turned her to face him, giving her a passionate kiss, pulling away with a smile.
“And that is why I love you.”
Warding Spear collapsed to the floor under the strain of so many bags. He just stayed that way, even as a small hoof jabbed his shoulder. He just mumbled in to the rug he was on, then yelped as something hit his flank. He looked up to see Sky Sapphire with a riding crop in her mouth. “Where in the hay did you get that?”
“It's mommy's, she uses it for when daddy's being naughty. And you are being naughty right now!”
“There is seriously something bucked up going on around here.”
“We would appreciate it if you did not swear around our daughter.” He turned to see Luna smirking at him from the main bedroom. “Now, what prompted you to do such a... oh, buck. Sapphy, could you put that down and come in here please, your father and I need to speak with you.”
“Okay mommy. You, Spear, put those bags in my room.” She leant down to his face with narrowed eyes. “Neatly.”
“Yes ma'am!” And with that she was gone, happily skipping over to the doorway and disappearing. Spear looked up in time to see Luna wink at him, before the door closed. He just stared at it confused until he once more felt the crop on his flank. “Who the buck...”
Upon turning, he came face to face with Blazing Petal, who had picked up said crop with her wing. “I believe the filly said to put her bags in her room?”
“Yeah, so? What are you going to do about it?” SLAP “Ow! Sheesh, you don't have to be bossy about it!”
“But I like being bossy, and your wings tell me you do too.” His mumbles were muffled as he picked up the backs and headed towards the filly's room.
“All new year two students, this way please!” Flame and Sky rushed over to the mare, throwing themselves around her forelegs. She looked down and smiled, gently prying them off. “Good morning to you two, Prince Flame and Princess Sapphire. Have you two been good foals over the holidays?”
Sky just smiled up at her whilst Flame nodded vigorously. “Yes Miss Lecture, we have.”
“Oh good. Now, do you want the good news or the bad news?”
“Well... the bad new first, if you please.”
“Of course. The bad news is that you will not be meeting your new teacher today. However, the good news, I have been appointed the teacher for this year group.” The twins jumped up with a resounded squeal, rushing into the class. She turned to the stallion standing under a cloak. “Now, Mr Luckes, I thought I already told you that you didn't have to hide here!”
“I am not a pony of that name.”
“Then... who are you?”
“It doesn't matter about my name, suffice to say I will return at the end of the day to collect them. Which is what time again?”
“We finish at three today. Will... Mr Luckes not be joining you?”
“No, he is currently under house rest, being looked after by his wife.”
“Oh, I had heard that there was a fight up at the castle. Did you see it?”
“Yes, I did.” Lecture was about to ask about it when she noticed the bandages around his legs, and caught the sight of scars and burn marks all over his legs. He seemed to notice as well, and shifted nervously. “It is nothing to worry about, I shall take my leave.” The stallion bowed to her and turned, leaving the school grounds. The mare noted that he seemed to be trailed by a few Royal Guards.
It didn't take them long to reach the castle, where Alec was waiting for them. “So, how did it go?”
“They are at school, and will leave at three this afternoon. I shall collect them then.” He went to enter the castle, but a sandy brown wing blocked his entrance. “Sir? Am I not allowed in?”
“Hold on a minute, Spear...”
“Please, don't call me that.”
“It's your name, you live with it. Now, the matter at hand. Or hoof. Whatever. You know how Celestia can be a bit of a trolling bitch?”
“It... has never crossed my mind.”
“Yeah, okay. Anyway, she's done it again, and wants you to report directly to the throne room. But I didn't tell you that, so it's your choice.”
“Is... there something wrong?”
“Well... I'm not going to kill you any more, you've suffered enough, both physically and mentally. The pony in there, however, may still want to.”
“Who is it?”
“Your mother.”
“Oh...buck. Fine. Let's get this over with.” The walk was sombre, nothing being said between the two stallions. The guards lining the walls seemed to look at Spear with sympathy. They paused before the final set of doors. With a deep breath he pushed through, holding his head high and trotting to the dais. He bowed low and then stood, staring at the top step just below the throne.
The mare next to him walked around him a few times, stopping in front of him. She reached up a hoof and slid his hood back, staring into his one good eye. He gave her a small smile, which quickly disappeared as she smacked him hard, continuing to relentlessly beat him. He just stood there and took it, and she didn't stop until his cloak fell down, revealing his scared body.
The mare gave a shocked gasp, throwing her arms around his neck and sobbing uncontrollably. Spear brought up a hoof and slowly placed it on her back, lowering his head to hers. “I am so sorry... I didn't know...”
“Mother, it is fine. I understand why you feel that way. Princess Celestia, could we have some time?”
“Take what you need.” He nodded and turned around, preparing to guide the mare out when he noticed Alec shaking jus head. He also saw the guards silently leaving the room, Alec then backing away and closing the doors behind him.
“Spear? Is it really you?” He turned to the voice of a stallion, smiling as he saw who it was.
“Yes father, it is me.”
Flame and Sky bounced around the gardens in excitement. The day they had been waiting for had come, and as it was midterm at school, they had a couple of weeks off. It would have come sooner, but Luna was being extremely strict with Alec. So when they appeared from one of the many doors, the excitement only got more intense. They raced over and jumped at their father's neck, making him chuckle. “Okay, you two, calm down! Now I know we said we were going to teach you, but I've managed to get some help.”
“Who from, father?”
“Heya squirts, did you miss me?” They whipped round and prepared to leap at the mare, but paused as they saw her condition. “What, never seen a fat pony before? Anyways, meet your theory of flight and wing exercise instructors. Flame, you'll be flying with Soarin, Sky, you've got... now where the hay did she go?”
A white pegasus mare with a blonde mane and tail landed right in the middle of the group. “SURPRISE!”
“There she is. Sky, this is Surprise, your instructor.” The twins were taken to a separate area of the garden, one that was cleared of any obstacles. Luna and Alec sat under a tree, the mare leaning back against his chest as the foals were taught the basics of pony flight, and then onto exercise to strengthen their wings.
After lunch the Wonderbolts had to leave, much to Flame and Sky's disappointment, especially as Twilight was back to teach them some more extra curricular stuff. The only consolation was that she brought Gala Sparkle with her, although Flame quickly got bored as they braided each others mane and talked about colts.
Out in the garden Alec ran a hoof through Luna's mane as she snoozed in the afternoon sun. The scent of apples drifted across his senses, and he looked up to see Big Mac slowly approaching. The larger earth pony slowed to a trot, sitting a respectful distance away. “Hey Mac, what's up?”
“Not much, but can Ah ask you a favour?”
“Sure, go ahead.”
“Well... mah cousin Breaburn has gone missin'. We looked all over Appleloosa an' Ponyville, but there was no sign of 'im. He's due to be married next week, as Ah'm sure y'all know, an' Miss Fluttershy is getting' really worried.”
“Hmm, I'll talk to Celestia, see if I can't get somepony down to help search.”
“Thank you, it'll be much appreciated. Now Ah better go find mah wife and make sure she ain't causing headaches for the foals.” With a quick nod, the massive farm pony left the gardens, leaving the couple alone. Alec gently lowered Luna down onto the blanket under them, following next and wrapping a wing over her, closing his eyes.
They opened a moment later when he sensed a pony nearby, seeing a stallion with a dark cloak covering them, who could only be one pony. “Spear, what are you doing?”
“What I should have been doing all along, protecting your family.”
“We're in the middle of the garden, what could happen here?” As soon as he said this a squad of griffons dropped in, surrounding them. Warding Spear immediately removed his cloak and spread his wings, blocking the couple on the floor.
“Place your weapons on the floor and step away.” None of the griffons moved, instead gripping their spears tighter. “You will not harm them, not when I stand in your way.”
“Stand down squad, they're friends.” They backed away and spread apart, revealing a griffon hen with a crown on her head. She walked right up to Spear and eyed him curiously. She stepped around him and over to the blanket, smirking down at Alec. “Well, are you not going to stand up in the presence of royalty?”
“Show me some and I might do that, Gilda. What do you want?”
“What, can't just drop in and say hello?”
“Not with a squad of soldiers, no. So again, what do you want?”
“Fine, we're here to sort out the griffon and changeling problem. One way or another.”
“Go speak to Celestia, it's nothing to do with me.”
“And what about your wife? Also, we found a pony hiding in the mountains that border our country, muttering something about 'a fate worse than death'. Sounded like Applejack.”
“Was this pony a stallion, wearing a Stetson and vest, with an apple for a cutie mark?”
“Yeah, you know him?”
“That's Braeburn, and he's due to be married in a week. Where is he now?” The sound of struggling came through the garden as the stallion in question tried to pull away from the griffons and Royal Guards escorting him towards the castle. “Well, that makes the search much easier.”
“NO, LET ME GO!! AH CAN'T GET MARRIED!! SOMEPONY, ANYPONY HELP ME!” There was the feel of vibrations in the ground as Mac ran out to meet them, Braeburns face turning to one of relief... “Mac, ya gotta help me! Mah life is about to end!” ...until Mac raised a hoof and slapped him.
“Snap out of it Brae! Fluttershy has been worried sick for ya! Now you get your flank back t' Ponyville and say you're sorry, or Ah'll buck your from here to there, right here, right now!” The smaller stallion stood still, but then ran away as Mac began to turn. “Apologies your majesties, but Ah best keep an eye on that one. Tell Twi Ah'll see her later.” With more vibrations he chased after Braeburn, indtending to ensure his apology was carried out.
Chapter 12: If a mare's foaling, you'd best do what she says...
A massive group of ponies crashing through the hospital entrance panicked the young nurse, and she was about to call security when she noticed Princess Sparkle looking at the ward map. She got up from her desk and trotted over, bowing low. “Your majesty, it is a pleasure to see you here. What department are you looking for?”
“Please, I don't want to draw any attention. My friend Rainbow Dash is in, and she's having a foal. Which direction to the maternity ward?” After being shown the location, the group moved on, letting the nurse continue with her work. Which consisted of a couple of headache tablets.
Deep in another part of the same building, a pegasus stallion was bearing the events with a grin, even as his hoof was being crushed between those of his wife, who's prismatic mane was matted with sweat and fell around her head. “Come on, Dash. You've been through this before, you can do it.”
The crushing just got harder as a particularly strong contraction came forth, causing her to breathe heavily. She looked over to the window where Firefly and Bifrost were watching with smiles, Scootaloo and Prism Blast jumping in place next to them. All they could see was her top half and Soarin, whose pain Bifrost seemed to relish in.
The elder stallion leant down to the mare next to him and whispered in her ear. “Reminds me of when you had Spitfire. Couldn't use my hoof for, what was it again? Oh yeah, almost three weeks!” Firefly lightly slapped his cheek and then kissed him, turning as the door opened and Dash's friends came trotting in. At the same time a door inside opened and a doctor came trotting in. They could hear the exchange trough a speaker at them bottom of the window.
“Now then Mrs Smokestack, time to see how long you have left.” The curtain was drawn back more so that she was hidden from view as the doctor examined her. “Good, coming along nicely. I shouldn't think it would be too long now. Now, as you are both pegasi, I assume you want the traditional cloud birthing?”
“Yes, now hurry up and get this bucking foal out of me!”
“Dash, calm down, they're just doing their job.”
“WELL GET THEM TO DO IT FASTER!!!” The group outside laughed at her comments, especially Rarity, knowing that Dash didn't have much decorum at the best of times, let alone when foaling. The curtain drew back and the doctor stared wide eyed at the gathering.
“Okay... this is too many ponies. Those of you who are not immediate family will have to wait outside.” None of them went to move, so he lit his horn, the doors behind the group swinging open to reveal three unicorn security guards. “Please make sure they are well looked after in the waiting room. Sorry Princess Sparkle, but it's the hospital rules.”
Twilight nodded, turning to walk away, but then stopping and pulling Rarity away in her magic, ignoring her protests of 'knowing her so long that they were practically family'. Out in the waiting room they met up with Alec and Luna, who had left the twins with Faust and Celestia. They made small talk for a while as screams came down the corridor, followed by shouts about Soarin being 'the most pansy faced stallion ever.'
Luna got up and trotted out of the room, Alec following at a distance. He found her looking longingly at the new born foals, a far away look in her eyes as he draped his wing over her back, and nuzzled her cheek, then standing still. “I want another one.”
“Another what? Foal?”
“Yes. I love Flame and Sapphy, but there is part of me that wants to experience it all again.”
“Why don't we just get a puppy?” Alec grinned mischievously as Luna glared at him. “Oh come on, it was just a joke! I gotta say, I wouldn't mind myself. I got a letter from Shining Armour the other day, Cadence is pregnant again with a sibling for Skyla. I'll be dammed if I'll let him beat me to three.”
“So... do you want to try for another?”
“Well... the trying part is what I enjoy the most.” Luna pulled away from him and began to walk down one of the other corridors, causing Alec to scramble after her. He managed to catch up just as she entered a unoccupied room, leaving the lights off. “Luna, I wasn't serious! Well, I was, but I didn't mean it like that. If you want another foal, then it is mmpphh”
She dragged him in with her wings around his head, slamming the door shut with a rear hoof and pushing him onto the bed.
A door to the side swinging open caused everypony to jump in alarm, but that turned to relief as an exhausted Dash was wheeled past, a bundle of towels wrapped in her forelegs. Following on behind was Soarin with a slight limp, scowling every time Bifrost laughed. The group followed at a distance as the trolley stopped outside a room, the orderly opening the door and flicking the lights on... where his wings suddenly shot out from his back.
Curious, Twilight popped her head in the door, cheeks turning pink as she stared at the ponies on the bed... who were in a rather compromising position. Alec turned his head round and smiled at her, not having moved from his position. “Let's face it... you've caught us doing worse.”
She then felt her cheeks burning, the sudden flash of memory in head of Luna, a riding crop in her mouth, chasing him down the castle corridors with his wings tied behind his back and wearing a saddle. Shaking the thoughts from her head, she closed the door and knocked, hearing movement from inside. “Excuse me, but this room is pre-booked. I'm going to have to ask you to leave.”
“Our apologies, Twilight. We will, of course, vacate the room. But can we have five minutes?”
“GET THE BUCK OUT OF MY ROOM!” The shout from the trolley caused everypony to duck as Dash got tired of waiting. “I HAVE JUST BEEN IN LABOUR FOR FOUR BUCKING HOURS, AND YOU WANT FIVE MINUETS? YOU'LL GET THE BACK OF MY HOOF IF YOU DON'T BUCK OFF! DON'T BUCKING TOUCH ME!”
Soarin's hoof slowly moved away from her shoulder, and he took a couple of steps away. Dash shot her hoof out and grabbed his, muttering an apology as the door swung open, Luna and Alec making their way out, having covered themselves with a couple of sheets. He walked over to an orderly and had a whispered conversation, then waved Luna over and they trotted off down the corridor together.
The trolley was pushed in and Dash transferred to the bed, leaving a queue of ponies out the door. One by one each of her friends came in and were shown the newest addition to the Smokestack family. It was a pegasus colt, who shared his father's coat and his mother's mane, something that Bifrost said was expected, as it switched genders every generation. Finally Prism Blast came in, hopping it into Soarin's lap as Dash held the foal. “What's his name, mommy?”
Dash turned her head and smiled over at Soarin, who stroked her tired face with a hoof as he turned to their daughter. “His name is Flaring Haze.”
The first stallion stepped out of the train, looking around at the sparely populated town of Appleloosa. With a nod of his head nine more Royal Guards disembarked, forming a line behind him. A local stallion made his way towards them, and they saw he was the town sheriff. “Well howdy, and welcome t' Appleloosa fellas, name's Shooting Star. Can Ah interest y'all in a drink before we get started?”
“No thank you, we need to get this sorted out as soon as possible. Where is the meeting to take place?” Shooting Star looked over the group sent to help, noting that the one in charge seemed to be trying to hide himself, wearing a black cloak and hood instead of the usual armour.
“In t' town hall. Ah'll show you the way.” They trotted to a large single story building overlooking the town on one side, and the apple orchard on the other. Upon entering the guards spread out to check the area, whilst Shooting Star and the other one pushed through into the council chambers, currently housing a single buffalo, changeling and griffon. There was another pony inside, waiting to write down the meeting's transcript.
The stallion made his way to the head of the table, removing his cloak and taking a seat, ignoring the shocked gasps and stares of the others. Warding Spear looked around at the... 'ambassadors' and tried to remember his briefing. Why the buck Celestia or Luna... hay, even Princess Sparkle couldn't deal with this, he didn't know, but he'd still try for a peaceful outcome. “Right then, what's the problem?”
The changeling and griffon immediately started shouting at him, each trying to out do the other. The volume got higher and higher until Spear slammed his hoof onto the table, culling them into silence. He didn't doubt that it would have descended into violence without the town guard present. “Sheriff Star!”
“Yes sir?”
“Which one was here first?”
“Well... that would be t' changelings. They've been around here for a good eight years now. The griffons only moved in a couple of months ago.”
“And you, buffalo?”
“You know, I have a name. Which happens to be Chief Strongheart. Anyway, the buffalo are not that bothered with who our neighbours are, but we do not want this to end in bloodshed. This region has seen enough in the past.”
“I see. Griffon, and I do not care for your name, why have you chosen to settle here, instead of returning to Griffica like the other tribes?”
“Because of our legacy. They became the Blackbeaks.” Spear didn't know who they were, so called one of the Royal Guard over and had a hushed conversation with him, eyeing the griffon suspiciously.
“I see. Well, it would seem we are at an impasse.” He locked his gaze with the griffon, smiling softly. “Unless... the Blackbeaks have already paid for those actions. You are free to return to Grffica, and will more than likely be welcomed with open hooves. Talons. Whatever. Anyway, Emperor Grosvenor and his mate Gilda are kind and just. I am sure they will find a place for you within the empire.”
“So... we can go home?” Spear nodded, passing over a royal travelling order, allowing them free travel within Equestria to do so. “I accept, but there is one other thing. And that is the matter of the missing griffons, more than likely killed by those bugs.”
Spear looked to the other side of the table, gauging the reaction of the changeling sat there. He remained passively neutral, not showing one hint of emotion. Then again, he was a changeling... on that Spear recognised. “Prince Catalyst, is that you?”
“Yes, it is I.”
“You've gotten old. Anyway, what do you say to these accusations?”
“Yes, we have them. They were captured attempting to destroy our hive in the making. But they are very much alive, and we will be glad to return them once we have a settlement.”
“And do we?” Catalyst nodded, leaving the decision to the griffon, who nodded as well. Both parties left the room in opposite directions, whilst Spear just massaged his head. He may have been order to do this, but Celestia had better be paying him.
“So... how about that drink. Ah'm sure mah wife won't mind if Ah get home late.”
“I do not think so Star. It's your turn to look after Strong Star tonight, as I am having a mare's night out. You know this.” Spear watched unblinking as the buffalo left the room, and then he noticed the smaller one behind her legs, having the body of an earth pony. He turned his gaze back to the sheriff.
“Sorry, but I have... a mare waiting for me back in Canterlot.”
“Probably a good thing too, little Strongheart seemed a tad annoyed.”
“THAT'S CHIEF STRONGHEART, OR I'LL TELL DAD!”
“SORRY HONEY! Well, Ah gotta run. Thanks for all yer help, and don't y'all be a stranger now, ya hear?” Spear got up and left, the Royal Guards nodding at him, and together they headed back to the train station, ready to head home.
Seven stallions stood around an eighth, all having a laugh at his expense. After all, that's what a wedding reception was all about. The vow had been said, they had promised themselves to each other and forsaken all others. And yet the group could still see a hint of fear in Braeburn's eyes. Mac noticed, and sat down next to him. “Brae, snap outta it. You're a married stallion now, an' that ain't even gonna change.”
“Ah know Mac... but what if Ah can't... please her?”
“Ah'm sure you'll be fine. All those mare back in Appleloosa... you musta being doin' somethin' right.”
“Ah... they... Mac, nothin' happened with them. Ah just took 'em out fer a nice meal, and that was it.”
“Really? Ya mean... ya never... with a mare?”
“No... Ah haven't.”
“Well... dang, Brae. Ah don't think that'll be a problem. Ah don't think that Mrs Apple is t' kinda pony t' sleep around.”
“Mrs Apple... speakin' of her... Ah guess it's time fer my first dance with mah wife, huh?” Mac smiled as he noticed Fluttershy making her way over, Braeburn rising to meet her halfway. Upon a nod from a five month pregnant Princess Cadence, the music changed to a slow, romantic piece. After a few minutes the other couples joined them on the dance floor, but something caught Alec's attention.
Off to one corner was Blazing Petal, wearing a simple yellow dress. But what Alec had noticed was that she was alone. He nodded in her direction, ensuring that Luna saw her, and they left the dance floor, Luna heading towards the mare. “Miss Petal, is everything all right?”
“Hmm? Oh, your majesty! Forgive me, I... was just thinking, that's all. It's nothing to worry about. Is there something you need?”
“Petal, this is a celebration, one which you have the night off for. If you don't mind me asking... why are you alone?”
“Because that's how it's always been for me. Something good comes along, and then it gets removed, whether by parents getting a new job or... a demon from another world. Something out there doesn't want me to be happy, and until I find it and kick it's flank, I won't be.”
“That is a rather pessimistic view of life. Tell me... what do you want?”
“I... don't know.”
On a empty balcony above the party grounds stood a lone stallion, his single eye looking up to the starry sky. His mane floated around in a minuscule breeze, giving a slight nip to the air. It didn't bother him though, as his cloak was quite thick. He ignored the door opening behind him, and the pony that sat in the chair that was present. “Beautiful, aren't they?”
“You could say that. They're also... dangerous.”
“What makes you say that?”
“Well... knowing what's out there... this world is not ready. I hope that they stay out there... unless you happen to know them, sire.”
“Spear, what did I say about that shit? Stop it. And I can swear as long as the twins aren't around. So why are you up here, when the party is down there?”
“I don't deserve to be happy. It matters not what you or any other say, I still don't deserve it.”
“What about making others happy?”
“Want to kill me still? Or perhaps something else.”
“Actually... I was thinking of Blazing Petal. And that box that you set down on the railings a few minutes ago.”
“I have nothing to offer her any more.”
“Whatever. Follow me.” Alec turned and entered the room, Spear following. Inside was a white unicorn mare, a selection of sewing supplies and a few suits next to her. “Rarity, how long do you think it would take to refit a suit to him.”
“Hmm... I will have to use one of Big Mac's old ones, adjust it for the wings... and that dreadful thing on your face can certainly be changed.”
“Um... do I get a choice in the matter?” His answer was in the form of a tape measure floating around him, Rarity coming up close and removing the cloak. There was no reaction from the mare as she continued to get what she needed, and then began to work.
“Right... we need some of this... maybe a touch of... open this up a little... cut two holes here and stitch the edge.” After around half an hour Spear was now dressed in a black suit, much to his consternation. “Right, one last thing.” He took a step back as her hoof came up to his face.
“Please... let me keep this.” Rarity gave him a confused look before seeing Alec nod, and she stepped away. “Thank you. Now what? I mean, thanks for the clothes, but why?” The box he had was floated over and set into a pocket, one that he could reach with a wing.
“Go back out on to the balcony, and wait.” He did so, and twenty minutes later he was joined by another pony, but this one kept their distance. Spear turned around and his mouth dropped open at what he saw, causing Petal to blush.
“Hey... nice night, huh?”
“Beautiful...”
“That again?”
“Hmm? Oh, sorry. Yes, it is a nice night.” Petal trotted forward and past him, standing next to the balcony and staring over the sky. Spear noticed she was shivering a little, and crept forward slowly, sliding his wing over her back. She looked over her shoulder and pushed against his side, nuzzling his cheek. Spear felt something move on the other side, seeing the box come out of his pocket in a beige aura, snapping it up with a wing. “Hey... Petal... I've got something for you. I... hope you like it.”
He brought the box around, watching as she opened it to reveal a hoof ring. From inside the room, Alec and Luna stood waiting, watching out the window. They pulled away with a smile as Petal pressed Spear back onto the chair, laying on his chest. The royal couple left the room, and instead of rejoining the party, made their way back to their chambers. They needed time to themselves, and Faust had already said she'd have the twins for the night.
There was movement behind them, but Luna dismissed her personal guard, letting them have the evening off. Once they were alone, she continued walking, swinging her hips in such a way that she knew Alec wouldn't even stop for a drink... or making him walk in to a wall, depending on how she felt.
Luna sat humming as she ran a brush through her mane, just as the sun was cresting the horizon. She noted movement in the mirror, but still giggled like a filly as Alec came up behind her and started to lay kisses up the back of her neck, and she flicked her tail across his muzzle. “'tis a little early, don't you think?”
“It's never too early for me to show affection to my beautiful wife. Besides, your mother has taken Flame and Sky to school today, leaving us... all... alone.” He continued up her neck, finishing up at her ear which he gently nibbled, causing Luna to gasp with pleasure, holding him in place with a hoof around his head.
Alec pulled away, moving back down her body, and stopping to nibble on her wing's feathers for a moment, but then stopped as a burp sounded from the room. He instantly spun round, wings spread wide to protect Luna and his horn glowing, sweeping across the room, searching for the unknown intruder. “All right, come out and I'll make it quick. Play games, and I'll make you suffer.”
The air around the couch seemed to waver, and once stopped a changeling mare was seated upon it, rubbing her stomach with a hoof, as satisfied look upon her face. “Don't let me stop you, I can fit more love in!”
“Dammit Chrysalis! Why aren't you bothering Armour?”
“He banned me from the Crystal Empire whilst Cadence is with foal. Now come on, don't be stingy with the love!” Alec dropped his wings, turning to whisper with a smirk to Luna, whose frown melted to match his face as he told her his plan.
“Okay... but there's a catch. You are not allowed to get any sexual gratification out of this.”
“But... why?” They didn't answer, their horns glowing together, summoning ropes that bound her to the couch, and Alec place a magic blocking ring over her horn. She struggled for a moment before realising it was pointless, and glared up at the couple. “This isn't fair!! I wasn't going to do anything any way!!”
“Tough. Are you ready, my dear wife?”
“As always, my wonderful husband. Let us give her a show she'll never forget!”
Celestia walked out of her bathroom, mane cascading down around her shoulders as she smiled over to Warper, still resting upon her bed. She trotted over and ran a hoof over his back, causing him to flip over and look at her. “Come now Captain, don't you think it's time to get up?”
“Nah... Moonlight can do some overtime for once. I'm always covering for him. Now... where did we get to?” He pressed forward, kissing one cheek whilst brushing the other with a hoof. They fell sideways towards the bed together, getting each other worked up until a flash bid them pause. Celestia craned head head up and blinked in confusion.
“Hi Celly! Oh boy, sun love!” The grin from Chrysalis as she sat bound on the floor clashed with the confused glare that Celestia was giving her. “Oh come on, you're the one who let us stay here! Share already!”
Alec lay with his back against the headrest, Luna dozing against his side, head across his chest as he ran a hoof through her mane. He heard the main door open, pulling a blanket over their lower halves before opening the bedroom door with his magic. “In here.”
Warding Spear's head appeared, and he walked into the room, bowing slightly. “You weren't at breakfast, so we thought we'd bring you something.”
“'We'?”
“Out of the way.” He was pushed to the side as Blazing Petal came in with a trolley laden with fruit, the scent of which causing Alec's stomach to rumble with eager hunger. He went to get out of bed, but a shake of Petal's head bid him pause, and they passed over trays and set the food down upon it. Petal disappeared and returned with another trolley, the scent from this one being enough to rouse Luna.
“Hmm... is that maple syrup I smell?” She sat up, looking around the room before her gaze settled on the stack of pancakes steaming in front of them, causing her to smile at Spear and Petal. “What is this in aid off?”
“Nothing, your majesty, you just missed breakfast is all. We'll wait in the main room until you're both finished.” Bowing their heads, they backed out of the room as Alec and Luna dug in with gusto. The first thing to go was the strawberries as toppings, then the other fruits followed.
“Hey Luna? I've... got a suggestion, if you'll hear me out.” She nodded from the mouthful she had, intrigued by what was coming. “So... they need a new job, you've got your personal guard and servant, I refused them... but the twins...”
“Are you suggesting that we place Warding Spear, the pony who tried to kill you and our daughter, in charge of their protection? Listen to yourself!”
“Yeah... you're right. It's a stupid idea, I shouldn't have said anything.” He gasped as Luna pushed him back on the bed, levitating the maple syrup over Alec's muzzle.
“Yes, it is. But it's also crazy, and your crazy ideas seem to work. But what of Petal?”
“Personal maid. We could even get Rarity to make her a cute little outfit... but not one like yours.” The jug of syrup tilted even more, covering his muzzle in the sticky substance, and he lay still as Luna leant close.
“Oh dear, it seems like master has become dirty... whatever should I do?” Alec swallowed in anticipation as she slowly dragged her tongue across his cheek, lapping the syrup away. “Hmm, we can offer it to them... but what will the twins think?”
“Sapphy... has already forgiven him. I think she'll be okay with having somepony like him as her protector. Especially with what he went through on Earth. Flame... will just prank him all the time, the little shit.”
“Alec, that is your son.”
“Got another name for him?”
“No, not really. And what of Blazing Petal? Going from a guard to a servant... there is shame in that. Do you think she will want to do so?”
“It's either that or following Spear round and cleaning his shit up. Which do you think she would do? And she can also be a protector, she has the training. What do you think?”
“I think they can hear us... the door is still open. Warding Spear, Blazing Petal, come forth.” The two ponies came in and stood at the foot of the bed, looking at the wall behind it. “Tell me, what do you two think of this idea?”
Spear bowed to the floor and nodded his head. “I will do whatever you command, your majesties.” Petal, in the meanwhile, had a look of trepidation upon her face.
“Please tell me you were joking about me being their...maid. Can't I just be a guard instead?” Alec and Luna had a whispered conversation, all the while smirking and occasionally shooting glances at Petal. They both turned with massive grins on their faces.
“We'll have decided... that the twins can choose.” Petal let out a groan as Spear tried to hide his smile, which she of course noticed.
“Shut up.” She turned and marched out of the room, whilst Spear remained in place, waiting for his next orders.
“Why haven't you left yet?”
“I am awaiting my next task, princess.”
“Take a day off.”
“Your majesty?” She lay back against the bed running a hoof across Alec's wings.
“You heard her Spear, go have some fun. Take your mare our for a nice walk or something. In fact, take the weekend off, and head down to Ponyville, ask for the mayor for the royal retreat's keys. I'll send word before you get there. Now, and I mean this in the most polite way... buck off.”
“My... mare?”
“Yes, Blazing Petal? The pegasus that just left the room?”
“Yes sir.” He turned and walked out of the room, but poked his head back in... just before the last off the maple syrup was drizzled on to Luna. “Oh, before I go, a Mr Apple wishes to see you?” The jug was floated to a side table and Alec climbed out of bed, slipping a thick red robe on, and trotting over to the main room.
“Thank you, now go get Petal and head to the train station. Braeburn, what's up? I thought you would be with Fluttershy right now.”
“Well... Ah would be... but we're supposed t' be going on our honeymoon... an' Ah forgot to book somethin' fer it. One day an' Ah'm the worst husband ever.”
“You know, I used to be like you, self-deprecating. But then I got married, and it has been... mostly the best time of my life. You're not a bad husband Brae, Fluttershy loves you, and will be with you through anything. But not getting your mare a honeymoon... hope you're used to sleeping on the couch.”
The light gold stallion started to shake, eyes wide with fear as he stared as the wall. “Oh Celestia... when Mac finds out... Ah'll be a dead colt. Ah don't even know if Ah'm ready to give Fluttershy her wish yet...”
“Shy's wish? What's that exactly?”
“Oh, Ah've known about it fer a long time now. She feels like a mother t' all her animals, but none of them are really hers. She wants a foal at some point, an' she's at the perfect age fer it. But me as a father? It jus' don't bare thinkin' about.”
“Braeburn Apple, I will slap you if you don't shut up.” He did as told, cocking an eyebrow as the male alicorn rummaged around in a drawer. “Ah ha! Here it is!" He passed over a a security pass for a secure area. "Right, take this to the Royal Docks, ask for Starry Helm. He'll know where to take you. But before you go... have you got any winter clothes?”
“It's t' middle of summer. O' course I ain't got no winter clothes!” A bag of bits was dumped to the floor in front of him, and just by picking it up he could tell that it was a lot of money. “Ah... ah can't take this.”
“You're not. It's being given to you. Now, out on Canterlot high street is one of Rarity's boutiques. If they try to throw you out for... not being the right pedigree, tell them that they are fired for not allowing the husband of one of Miss Rarity's friends to by her wares.”
“But Ah... Ah can't do that! That's not gentlecoltly at all! How could you even suggest that?”
“Because if Rarity was there, she'd fire them herself. Now get going, I'll send word the get the Polaris prepared for departure.” With a nod of his head, Braeburn ran out of the room and back to his mare. “That stallion needs a good bucking hit to his head.” Alec prepared to head back into his room when there was a knock on the door. “FOR BUCK SAKE!! YES?? Oh... uh, hi... mum.”
“Good morning Alec, nice to see you like them as much as me. I just happened to overhear your conversation with that nice stallion, and was wondering as to where you were sending him?”
“To the same resort where we had our honeymoon. It's in the eastern mountains, and even at this time of year it's pretty cold out there.”
“And they are going on the Polaris, yes?”
“Look, I know where you're going with this, and it's the Royal Yacht. You don't need my permission to use it, but at least let me know in case I have something planned. So... see you in a few months?”
“Thank you Alec... and yes, I will be back by then. The twins are about to wake....
“SAPPHIRE SKY AND RISING FLAME!!! WHY IS MY MANE PINK?”
“... their aunt up. Hmm, perhaps I should not have taught them that spell. Oh well... see you~soon~" With that she swept out of the room, leaving Alec to lock the door. He had enough interruptions that morning. He cantered back to his room, ensuring to lock that door as well, slowly slipping his robe of, before Luna's speech caused his ears to twitch, having added a sultry tone to her voice.
“Oh my dear husband... I seem to have made a mess. Would you help me... clean up?” Upon turning round he saw Luna lying on her back, her wings spread wide... and covered in the remaining syrup. He slowly and calmly walked over to the bed, gently licking the outer feathers on her left wing.
“With pleasure, my beautiful wife.”
“GET YOUR FLANKS BACK HERE!!” The Royal Guards scrambled to assist the Solar Princess, but each one stopped when all they found was Sapphire Sky and Rising Flame galloping down the corridors giggling all the time. “WHEN I CATCH YOU, YOU'D BEST BE PREPARED!!”
The guards would then burst into snickers a Princess Celestia, Riser Of the Sun, Bringer Of The Day, chased them down... with a pink mane. She glared at each and every one of them in turn before storming off after the foals once more. It didn't help that they had managed to figure out their father's portal spell, and were working in perfect synchronism with each other. Every time Celestia got close, they would just enter one portal and emerge at another point in the castle.
Of course, she would just teleport to that position, but they still got a head start. It wasn't until they tried to slip in to their own apartment that things went wrong for the twins, and they turned to see Celestia had blocked off the only exit from the corridor, and was slowly stalking towards them.
They were given the chance to escape as Captain Warper teleported in front of her, pulling her into a passionate kiss, but her magic still managed to get a hold of the twins, floating them into the air in a bubble. She did the same to the stallion in front of her, dragging them into her room. Moments later the door swung open as Flame came running out with a pink mane and tail himself, whilst Sky came trotting out happily, her mane and tail now a pale orange.
But the worst sufferer was Captain Warper, who had been turned entirely pink with a green mane. He looked down at the filly and colt with a sigh. “Let's go get some ice cream.” The pair's mood rose much more, and they bounced around him as they trotted off down the corridor, oblivious to the laughter that came from nowhere...
Rainbow Dash touched down outside Fluttershy's cottage, knocking on the door frantically. When it didn't seem like anypony was home, she flew around the back and grabbed the spare key from under the flower pot, which house a very much un-alive plant, and slipped into the house. Angel had been staying over at Sweet Apple Acres, and had been very subdued for the past two months.
Applejack and Caramel had returned from Appleloosa, the fruits of their search proving to be useless. Nopony had seen the couple since their wedding, and it was now that they were really worried. After taking a forlorn look around the dust covered hovel, she relocked the door and took wing towards Ponyville proper, straight to the library.
Inside everypony else was waiting, watching as Soarin entertained the young ones with stories of the Wonderbolts... and some that would be embarrassing for Dash to hear, which they loved. He was halfway through one such story when he gave a yelp as somepony jabbed a hoof into his flank, and he turned to see a very peeved off wife. Fortunately for him, he was saved by one of her friends. “Rainbow Dash, you're back! But... you're alone. I guess she's not come home?”
“Sorry Twi, but not yet. I think it's about time to get the authorities involved. Something might have happened to her, and to Braeburn, and as her friends... we should have been doing more to help her.”
“Okay... I'll go see Celestia about this, it's too important for a letter. Does anypony else want to come?” Nine adult hooves and four foal hooves shot into the air, accompanied by what could only be deemed as encouraging babbling coming from the two youngest. “So... we'll need two carriages then.”
They each went to their respective places of residence, packing what they need. Two hours later they had gathered outside the library, preparing to venture to the train station when a shadow passed over head. They looked up to see a sleek, silver airship moving to the field just outside of town. The two engines shut down, leaving just a small whistle as it drifted down, and the sound of somepony softly humming...
There was a blue blur as Rainbow flew to the field, everypony else galloping after her. They got to the edge of the field just as the airship touched down, a hatch opening at the back. A few of the crew came out, carrying a few cases. It was when a set of brown saddlebags were set down... with a butterfly on the side. The crew went back on board and before anypony could move, Braeburn stepped out and looked around, smiling towards to gathering... before a crimson juggernaut slammed him to the floor. “WHERE IN THE BUCKING HAY 'AVE YOU BEEN? AN' WHERE THE BUCK IS MISS FLUTTERSHY?”
Braeburn struggled out of the hold Big Mac had on him, turning back to ship, and holding a hoof to the hatch. It was taken by a yellow hoof, and Dash zipped over as Fluttershy stepped out, but stopped herself once she saw her friends condition. With a gasp, Fluttershy looked round at her friends, shocked to see them ready to leave. “Um... hello everypony. What's going on?”
Nopony said anything, not until Dash moved over and looked carefully at the butter yellow mare. “Fluttershy... are you pregnant?”
She moved closer to Braeburn, pressing to his side and nuzzling under his chin. “um... yes, we are expecting our first foal.” The silent group stared for a moment, before the cheers began to erupt. They all congratulated the couple individually, before Pinkie Pie suddenly shot into the air with a massive gasp.
“It's time for a... BABY SHOWER!!!” With that she shot off to her home, getting the party preparations ready.
“Mommy... you're getting fat!” Luna did not scold Sapphire Sky, choosing instead to beckon her closer with a hoof, pulling her into a loose embrace.
“I know my darling, but there is a reason. For you see, I am with child once more... but don't tell your father. It is a surprise for him.”
“When will daddy and Flame be back?” Luna started to run her hoof through Sky's mane, closing her eyes as the filly settled down to sleep.
“Tomorrow morning at some point. You could've gone with them, you know?” The comforting motions stopped as Sky curled up next to Luna, lying on her side.
“I know mommy, but I wanted to stay with you.” She then gave a little giggle, causing Luna to smile, even as the foal growing inside her shifted to an uncomfortable position. “Besides, I wouldn't have been able to have all those sleepovers with the other fillies, would I?”
“True, now go to sleep. This is another thing your father must not know about... he won't be happy with you staying up this late.” Luna rolled to her side and pulled Sky to her chest, nuzzling her head gently before laying her own down for some much needed rest.
At one of the castle's side entrances, the two Lunar Guards stationed there were grateful for the fact that the sun was just peeking over the eastern mountains, meaning that their shift was ending soon. It had been a rather uneventful night, even with the younger Princess Sparkle deciding she wanted to go on a midnight walk with her father. The one on the left of the gate, a pegasus, spread his wings, stretching out to try and remove the pins and needles that had settled. “Um... excuse me?”
Their attention was drawn to the butter yellow mare with a pink mane standing in front of them. Being tired it took them a few moments to answer, but something about her was... off. “Dame Fluttershy... what happened to your wings?”
“Oh, uh... that's my daughter. In fact... um, I was wondering if you knew where I could find her. We didn't leave things... on the best of terms you see.”
“Mrs Apple lives in Ponyville. There is a train due to leave in the next hour.”
“Mrs... Apple? My daughter is... married? Oh... my.” The pegasus shot forward and grabbed the mare with his wings as she fainted, slipping her round to his back.
“Heh, look at that lads!” He turned to see the four Solar Guards coming to relieve them. “Armoured Star made another one faint with his ugly face!!”
“Kiss my Flank, Sunlight. She's a Bearer's mother. And she didn't know about the marriage. Besides... Captain Moonlight would have my flank if I tried something with his old flame. Now get outta my way, I'm taking her to the infirmary.”
Celestia smiled as the mare on the hospital bed stirred, slowly opening her eyes and looking around the room. The sparkling emerald eyes widened with surprise as they centred on the princess in the room. “Good morning my little pony. Now then, I don't believe we've met, so... you look like Fluttershy, but are much too young to be her mother. Cousin, perhaps?”
“Um... I, uh...”
“Posey... is that really you?” Both mares turned to the door, where a Lunar Guard marked with captain insignia was standing. “It's been so many years... you've hardly changed.”
“M-m-moonlight?”
“Hmm, perhaps I should leave you two alone, this sounds like something that should be private.” With a nod to the guard, Celestia trotted out of the room, the stallion dropping his gaze to the floor.
“I'm sorry.”
“And so you should be. Now, where is my daughter?”
“So... you got married afterwards?”
“No, I did not. Nopony would look at me after I had a foal out of wedlock, you know what sort of town we were living in. Especially being a teenage mother. Now, I will ask you again, where is our daughter?” Moonlight worked his mouth open and closed, trying to speak, to ask about... his daughter, but only one thing came out.
“Are... you sure she's mine?” A pillow to his face was not the answer he was expecting, and the mare on the bed was glaring furiously at him.
“Well, considering you were my first, and my last, yes, Fluttershy is yours!”
“Wait, Fluttershy, as in Dame Fluttershy, bearer of the Element of Kindness, saviour of Equestria on multiple occasions, is my... daughter? Oh Faust... I guess I'd best tell you then...”
“That she is now Mrs Apple? Yes, a guard has already told me that part.”
“No... it's something else. If you can wait here for a while... I can get time off, come down to Ponyville with you... if you want me to.”
The door to the master bedroom swung open slowly, and as Alec entered his muzzle through the door, he was assaulted by a small blue blur, and he began chuckling as he moved Sky down from his face to his chest with a hoof. “Good morning Sapphy, have you been a good filly?”
“Yes daddy, I have! We had a few sleepovers, we braided mommy and auntie Tia's manes, put make up on Blazing Petal and braided her mane as well. And we got cousin Skyla a coltfriend!!”
“Sounds like you had fun. Where's mommy?”
“She's in bed still!”
“Really? Well why don't we go wake her up then?” Sky leapt upon his back, and together the walked over to the side of the bed where Luna's head was. Alec moved his muzzle closer and pressed his lips to hers, causing Sky to giggle. Luna's eyes fluttered open and she looked upon her stallion with a smile.
“Good morning... have you just got back?”
“Yeah... Flame's still asleep, little guy was up all night piloting the Polaris. So, what's new with you?” Luna didn't answer with woods, grabbing the hoof that was running through her mane with one of her own, placing it on her stomach. He was about to ask why when his eyes widened in good surprise, and he started to smile as he felt another kick. “So... we got another one on the way?”
“Yes we do.” Luna tilted her heading confusion as a sound came through the door, one that hadn't been heard in the castle for a long time. “Alec... why did I just hear a dog bark?” Sky jumped down from his back and galloped into the main room, where she let out a massive gasp.
“Well... you see...”
“A PUPPY!!!”
“...I may have gotten them a present whilst we were away?”
“So you got them a dog?”
“It'll be fine, it's mother is one of Winona's offspring. Nopony's had a problem with any of them. Now... how long?”
“Well, the signs of two months started to show just after you left, so around three.” Alec lay on the bed behind her, wrapping a wing over her side and nuzzling her gently. “How was your male bonding trip?”
“Flame... has been spending too much time with Celestia, he spent most of the trip setting pranks up, but they were good ones. Other than that, everything went all right. Spike got a little... love sick being away from Sweetie Belle for so long. You should have seen how quick he got off when we landed in Ponyville!”
“Mommy, Mr Moonlight is here to see you!” With the assistance of Alec's hoof, she sat up against the headrest and nodded to her daughter, who turned and trotted back out with her head held high. “You may approach mommy now, Mr Moonlight.”
A chuckling stallion came through the door, bowing to the floor. “Apologies for the early interruption, your majesty. I was wondering if I could take a few days off for some... personal business.”
“Of course you may, captain. If I may, where will you be heading?”
“To Ponyville, I just found out I have a... daughter living there.” Alec cocked his head, trying to work out who it was, but couldn't recall anypony that looked like him, even out of uniform. Moonlight noticed, and with a sigh decided to tell them. “It's Fluttershy.” That got a reaction from the male alicorn, who now glared at him.
“GET YOUR FLANK DOWN TO PONYVILLE NOW AND APOLOGISE FOR NOT BEING THERE FOR HER!”
“SIR, YES SIR!” Moonlight turned and galloped out of the room.
“So Brae, how long 'as Shy got left?”
“A few months yet, Mac.” The two stallions were making there way to Caramel's for the usual weekly stallion get together. “Ah still can't believe Ah'm gonna be a dad.”
“Heh, you'll get used to it!” They nodded as Soarin dropped to the ground alongside them, ready to trot the last few paces to the bar. It was then that a Lunar Guard stepped out and looked to them, then trotted over.
“Mr Apple?”
“Eeyup?”
“That's me.”
“Uh... the Mr Apple that's married to Fluttershy?” The three stallions shared a nervous look, and Braeburn took a step forward with a swallow.
“That would be me, sir.”
“Um... could you... tell me where my daughter is... if you want to, that is.” The mare that stepped out from the guard made them all do a double take, due to the fact she was the spitting image of Fluttershy without wings.
“Daughter? Ma'am, yer too young t' be Shy's mother. Are ya sure ya got the right mare?” The earth pony trotted right up to Braeburn, glaring at him.
“I know who my daughter is, Mr Apple. Now where is she?”
“Probably back at home. Ah... can show ya and yer escort t' way if y'all want.” She looked around at the guard, before she smiled at Braeburn.
“He's not my escort, he's her father.” Braeburn's eyes went wide with shock, before a yellow forehoof waving in front of his face snapped him back to reality. “Well then Mr Apple, lead the way.”
Fluttershy lay on her bed, running a hoof over the growing foals inside her. She knew there was more than one, going by her size, but she didn't want to know how many. She smiled as she felt a few really soft kicks, but her face soon turned to confusion as Angel jumped to the bed and pointed out the window. “Calm down, Angel Bunny, nopony is out there. Braeburn has gone for his weekly night out, that's all.”
Her eyes widened as she heard the door open, and some hushed talking, one of the voices belonging to her husband. Next came the sound of hooves on the stairs, and the bedroom door slowly swung open, the hallway light revealing her smiling stallion. “You still awake, mah little butterfly?”
“Yes I am, my delicious apple.” Braeburn trotted over and nuzzled her cheek, which was promptly returned by the smiling mare.
“Hey... you feelin' up t' commin' downstairs? Ah got a surprise for ya.”
“Of course, give me a hoof, will you?” Doing as asked, the two walked out of the room and downstairs, where Fluttershy could hear a conversation between a mare and a stallion in her living room. The rounded the doorway when her breath got caught in her throat. “M-m-m-other?”
“Hello, Fluttershy.”
Braeburn watched as she worked her mouth a few times, then closed her eyes. Her breathing steady as he brought his hooves over his ears, and Moonlight, not knowing why, did the same. Even with the added audio protection, he found out why. “WHAT THE BUCK ARE YOU DOING HERE?? I THOUGHT YOU MADE IT PERFECTLY CLEAR THAT YOU NEVER WANTED TO SEE ME AGAIN!! AND NOW YOU TURN UP, OUT OF THE BLUE, FOR WHAT?”
“Well... I can see I'm not welcome here. I guess I'll just go.” Posey got up from the couch and walked to the front door. She turned her head and looked the other mare in the eyes. “Goodbye, my darling Fluttershy.” With that she left, the image of her tears burning into her daughter's eyes.
“I... I'm sorry.” Braeburn nuzzled her cheek and guided her to the couch opposite Moonlight, nodded to him before he galloped out of the door. Moonlight got up and walked over to Fluttershy, wrapping the sobbing mare in his wing. She looked up fearful for a moment before she noticed his soft smile. “Um... do I... know you?”
“I'm sorry, Fluttershy. I didn't want this to be like this. I'm... I mean, I am...”
“Take your time, you can say it.” He took a few deep breaths, before cupping her hooves in his and looking her in the eye.
“Fluttershy, I'm your father.” She sat there, unblinking, unmoving for a whole five minutes before it caught up to her.
“D-d-daddy?” Moonlight nodded, then suddenly found himself short of breath as she threw her forelegs around his chest, sobbing even more. Unsure of himself, he slowly reached up a hoof and began running it through her mane.
“Are yer sure?”
“'Fraid so. I saw her arrive, and she hasn't left yet. Sorry Brae, but that mare's still in Ponyville somewhere.”
“Okay, thanks any way.” Braeburn left the train station, wondering where Fluttershy's mother could've gotten to. If he'd been in that situation, he'd been wanting a really stiff drink right about no... the though struck him like a lightning bolt, which was rather appropriate as a grey blob barrelled into him as he began to run towards Caramel's.
“Braeburn, you gotta come quick! Some mare that looks like Flutters is slamming them back really quick!” Not giving him a chance, Thunderlane wrapped his hooves around Braeburn's body, taking wing to their combined destination. They landed outside and burst in through the door, seeing the mare in question with a bottle of spirit and a shot glass.
Posey went to pour herself another drink when the bottle was slapped away from her by a golden hoof, and she turned to scowl at the pony standing there, her daughter's husband. “And what the hay do you want? To tell me I'm a bad mother? Want to hit me for giving my daughter everything I could? Well... tough! You don't know what it was like, being a unwed teenage mother in Trotterdam. It's why I moved to Manehatten in the first place!”
“Ma'am, Ah don't know what happened to put ya in that situation, but Ah do know this. Fluttershy was happy to see ya, even if she didn't sound like it. Why don't ya come back t' the cottage with me, an' we can sort things out?”
“Why? What's the point? I made it perfectly clear how disappointed I was when she left for Cloudsdale instead of learning to fly there. Why would she want me to be around now?”
“Because you are her mother, an' as much as it don't seem like it, she loves you. Now come on, let's go see our family.” With a tug to her shoulders, Posey relented, and together they left the bar. Caramel looked at the bottle and glass left on the counter, then shook his head.
“That is being added to his tab.” The ponies closest to the bar erupted with laughter.
“...and then I got my cutie mark.”
“So... Dame Rainbow Dash... she knocked you off the cloud?” Fluttershy shook her head as she set down the tea set, four cups ready, just in case...
“She didn't mean to, it just happened. But I wouldn't have found the world I love if she didn't try to win against those bullies, so I should really thank her.” The door opened and Braeburn trotted in, with Posey snoring up a storm on his back. “Oh my, what happened?”
“She went t' Caramel's, had half a bottle of somethin' or other. Ah'm gonna put her in t' spare room, let her sleep it off.” He looked over at Moonlight and sighed. “Then Ah guess we'd better talk, huh?” After setting the mare down, he returned to the couch, the couple both getting to know Fluttershy's father, and the circumstances of her birth. Moonlight refused their offer of setting up a spare bed (Fluttershy had learnt from all the Cutie Mark Crusader sleepovers), opting for the couch instead.
When Braeburn came downstairs the next morning to start breakfast, he couldn't help but smile at what he saw. Lying on the large couch was Moonlight, and wrapped in his hooves, miraculously, was Fluttershy's mother, who had a wing over her for a blanket. He had to stop himself from chuckling as Posey shifted, nuzzling the stallion in her sleep.
The back streets of Cloudspire, at least during the night, was the last place anypony would want to be. All except one as he tried to reach his destination avoiding the main cloud roads, having had enough ponies stare at his one eye on the long train ride from Canterlot. The mare beside him got them moving with a swift hoof to the flank, but they soon stopped as three stallions stepped out from the shadows. “Well, well... what do we have here?A colt and filly all alone... why don't you come with us, see how a real stallion can treat you?”
“Hoops, what happened to you?”
“What the buck, how do you know my name?” The mare stepped out of the shadows, revealing the customized, lighter Royal Armour, marked with a sigil of a Moon upon a Shield. She was followed by the one eyed stallion, wearing the same. “Holy hay... Blazing Petal? You look good! And...Warding Spear? I heard you were dead!”
“I was, but I was then reborn into the pony before you. Now, let us pass.”
“Oh no, we don't think so. You see, at night, this area belongs to us.”
“This is an area for the ponies and visitors of Cloudspire. Now, remove yourselves from our paths... or we will do it for you.”
“And just who has given you the power to do that?”
“Princess Luna.” The three would be thugs looked at each other before quickly flying away, not looking back once. “Those three were always pretty dumb.” Petal came up to his side and nuzzled his cheek.
“See, that's the Warding Spear I remember. So, which way was it?”
“If I hear somepony say that name again, I'm going to buck them up!! It's not wanted around here!” They turned to the cloud home to their side, where the back door was open, a stallion and mare standing in the light. “Who ever you are, you'd best buck off before we call the guards!”
The ponies in the street stepped towards the light, showing the others they were guards. Spear trotted right up to the door and looked the mare in the eyes. She seemed confused for a moment and then punched him in the face hard, knocking him back down the cloud steps. Blazing Petal rushed to his side as the door slammed shut, and he shook his head with a sigh. “It would seem that my sister is unhappy to see me.”
The rousing smell of breakfast cooking made Posey's stomach rumble, and she stretched out on her bed, throwing her blanket to the side. Her eyes opened in shock as the action pulled a pony onto her chest, and she was met with the confused and blushing face of Defiant Moonlight staring down at her, the feather blanket now revealed to be his wing.
Their heads turned towards some chuckling coming from the other side of the room, finding Braeburn leaning against the doorway, Fluttershy pressing against him with a smile. “Now, Ah can see we're all gettin' reacquainted... but can we have breakfast first? Mah wife gets cranky when she don't eat.”
“Braeburn, that is enough! I do not get cranky!”
“Well, actually...” The couple trotted over to where Posey and Moonlight had separated, sitting at opposite ends of the couch. “You see, I was pretty cranky when I carried you, Fluttershy, and my mother was with me, and my grandmother was with her.”
“But... I...”
“It's okay, you'll pull through. It's easy to do when there is a stallion to help.” Moonlight lowered his head, refusing to meet the gaze of the others. He felt a hoof on his shoulder, glancing out the corner of his eye to see Posey looking at him with a soft smile on her face. “That is, of course, if the stallion even knows you're with foal.”
“Um... mother, would... you like to, uh... join us for breakfast?”
“That would be wonderful, Fluttershy.” Rising, they trotted towards the dining room, but stopped when a knock sounded on the door. The younger mare went to head back, but her mother's raised hoof bid her to hold still. “I'll get it, you go sit down and rest.” Posey trotted over to the front door and swung it open, her face going blank as she stared at the ponies before her for a good two minutes. Then she dropped to the floor, bowing as low as possible.
A beige hoof came through and tapped her shoulder, signalling to rise. The only pony she recognised was Princess Luna, but she had little doubt that this was her family accompanying her. The stallion that had leant down to help her up had an alicorn filly on his back, and there was an alicorn colt stood next to Luna. “Hello there, I don't think we've met before. My name is Alec, this is Sky Sapphire and Rising Flame, and I'm pretty sure you know who this pain in the ass is.”
He continued to smile even as Luna slapped his flank, turning to give her a leering gaze. She placed a wing over his muzzle and moved in front of him. “Please forgive him, he is the pain in the flank. Is Fluttershy home?”
“Y-y-yes, your highness. She's in the kitchen, getting breakfast ready, would you like me...”
“PANCAKES!!!” The young filly shot into the house, heading directly for the aforementioned room. “Hello Uncle Braeburn!! Hello Auntie Fluttershy!! Hello Mr Moonlight!!”
“Hello Sapphy, nice to see you.” Posey could only watch silently as the colt bowed to her and followed his sister to the other room, and then the two adult alicorns let themselves in, taking a seat on the larger couch. It was then that Posey noted Luna's larger than usual stomach as she was given a hoof to get into a comfortable position.
“Your majesty, I did not expect to see you down here.” Defiant Moonlight came out from the kitchen, a plate balanced on each wing, which he then set down on the table in middle of the room “Uh... I'll go let Dame Fluttershy know there're few more to cook for.”
“Moonlight...”
“Yes, your majesty?”
“I don't think you need to call your daughter 'Dame' Fluttershy...” The stallion returned to the kitchen with reddened cheeks.
Two young mares, a young stallion and a young adult dragon made their way through the crowds towards the side entrance of the temporary stadium. Along the way they overheard a conversation which made the bow-topped one turn around. “...so yeah, my eyes are going to be all over her flanks. That's the worst part of her leaving Ponyville to join them, Scootaloo...” He didn't get much further as Applebloom pushed him over, standing above the colt with her hoof on his chest.
“If y'all are here jus' to oggle mah friend... then y'all best clear out, ya hear? This here is an acro-batics show, so that betta be what y'all are watching, understood?”
“Yes ma'am.”
“Good.” With that she returned to her friends, and they were swiftly allowed through the VIP door, trotting along and stopping outside the room marked with a butterfly which had magenta lightning bolts for wings, and was opposite to a door marked by a tornado with a yellow lightning bolt through it's middle. Pipsqueak and Spike smirked, and didn't allow their friend any privacy, whipping the door open and walking in, but coming out a few moments later. “'e not in there?”
“No, I don't know where he could be. It's possible he's out limbering up.” The door behind them opened, and their quarry came trotting out backwards, his mane all over the place and his wings hanging limp. Upon his flank was a cutie mark, exactly the same as the one on the opposite door.
“Don't~be~to~long, Rum~ble!” He closed the door with a smile, before turning around and bumping straight into Applebloom, who just smirked at him.
“Uh... hey guys, what's up?”
“A bit o' stress relief, huh?”
“You could say that. Now what are you lot doing here?”
“Uh, you gave us VIP tickets with unescorted backstage access, remember? Anyways, y'all only got an hour left, so you'd best let 'er recover some strength. Boys, take 'im outta the way!” Rumble didn't have time to argue as Pip and Spike grabbed him, dragging him into his room. Sweetie Belle and Applebloom pushed into their friend’s room, but didn't see her there.
The sound of water being shut off drew their attention to the side door, where steam was drifting out and framing a silhouette, which slowly moved forward. “Well... that was quick... what did you get us to ea...” Scootaloo's sultry gaze and voice stopped as she beheld the other mares watching her with restrained snickering. “What the hay are you two doing in here?”
“Ah sent Rumble to go get ready... and now it's yer turn.”
“My turn? I've showered, and I just got to get into my flight suit.” The earth pony turned around and locked the door, whilst the unicorn walked forward with a horn glowing green.
“Yes, we know. But your mane is a disaster... so we're going to fix it for you.” On the other side of the door was the young trainee's head trainer, who stopped when she heard the groans through the door. With a chuckle, Lightning Dust continued down the corridor to check on the other recruits. Sure, she didn’t make the cut the second time round, but she was offered the position of Juniorbolt’s senior instructor.
It still meant working with her idols, so she had eagerly accepted it. She was also slightly jealous of Dash for landing Soarin... until she met Fire Streak.
“Is he still out there?” The pegasus stallion inside the house trotted over to a window, drawing the curtain back a little to peek out. On the other side of the road was another stallion, his eyes locked on the front door. He let the curtains drop once more, turning to his wife with a nod.. “Why hasn't he left yet? And where's that mare?”
As soon as the words left her mouth, there was a knock on the door. Another glance showed Warding Spear in the same place, so with a shrug the stallion walked over and cracked the door open a little. What he had expected to see and what he got were two very different things... especially with his twin teenage fillies hanging from the mare's neck, who was staring at him with pleading eyes. “Get... them... off... of me.”
“Misty Dawn, Gusty Mint... leave the mare alone.” The fillies let out a groan and then dropped to the ground, trotting into the house. The stallion went to close the door, but an armoured hoof prevented him from doing so. “May I ask what you are doing?”
“Yeah... we need to talk.”
“If it has anything to do with him, then we are not interested.” The mare narrowed her eyes at him, spreading her wings menacingly, her voice now with a small growl to it.
“Yes, it does involve Warding Spear. He will remain outside if you wish.” The stallion looked over his shoulder, and the mare could hear a whispered conversation, before he turned back to her.
“Fine, but make it quick.” Throwing a quick nod across the road, the guard entered the cloud home and took a seat in the front room, the two fillies looking up at her eagerly. The two adults came in and pulled them away, sitting on the couch opposite. “Well, what do you have to say?”
“First, introductions are in order. I am Blazing Petal.” The other mare gave a surprised gasp, passing the filly in her forelegs to the stallion and whispering something in his ear. He then got up and took the twins upstairs. “I guess you know my name, huh?”
“Yes, I do. I am Radiant Aurora, and that was my husband, Cirrus Breaker. Now, I want to know why you are insisting on this subject.”
“Before... certain events, did you notice a change in your brother's behaviour?”
“He stopped writing to me. I used to receive a letter every two weeks, but then they just stopped.”
“That's because he wasn't himself. Do you remember that thing that crashed here about eight years ago?”
“Of course. After all, that is who Spear tried to kill, isn't it?”
“Well, we work for them now. He's already seen your parents... and he wanted to come see you.”
“Why?”
“Because of what happened to him. We have had it explained by one who knows a lot. Basically, the demon that infected Princess Luna a thousand years ago is from another world. When the Elements Of Harmony were used on her, they didn't kill the demon... just purged it from her. And a few years later it found another host.”
“My brother?”
“Yes. He knows what was done using his body, and he has paid for that... so please, give him a chance to prove that he is once more the Warding Spear we all love and remember.”
“Very well, bring him in.” Petal got up and walked to the front door, waving the stallion over with a wing. Once he was inside, Aurora noticed his body was covered with fabric, and he had a hood over his face. “Why is he hiding?”
“I guess you weren't there for his... sentencing, but he was sent to another world to die. This is what happened.” Petal began to help him remove the armour, and then he slipped the undergarment off in one movement, revealing his scarred frame and missing eye. Just one look into the remaining one told Aurora all she needed to know, so she slowly approached and pulled him into a loose embrace.
“It's... good to see you again, Spear.”
“You too, Radi.”
“Pipsqueak!!!” The young stallion barely had any time to look up as a blue bundle jumped into his lap, giggling up a storm. Upon looking down, he discovered Sky Sapphire grinning up at him, and he pulled her into a hug. “I didn't know you were going to be here.”
“Yeah, well we got invited by Scoots. An' Sky... hooves off, 'e's mine!” The filly pouted at Applebloom, causing the stallion stood behind them to chuckle. The filly's twin was walking along slowly, but was suddenly snapped up by yellow forelegs. “Well, if you want mah stallion, Ah'm gonna 'ave yer brother.” Flame started to writhe about as she began to run a hoof through his mane, but then stopped moving as she kissed his cheek, his muzzle turning to a dopey smile.
The colt then started to blush as he heard his father's chuckle, turning to glare at him as he helped Luna into a seat, high up in the stand so that they could see the entire stadium. Alec settled next to her, one forehoof going around her shoulders whilst the other rested gently upon her swollen stomach, a grin on the stallion's face as the town's residents waved over.
The twin alicorns moved over and jumped into their father's lap, leaning back against him. Spike and Sweetie Belle appeared, both carrying a multitude of snack items. They took the two seats next to the other ponies, the young unicorn mare levitating a medium sized tray to the family behind her, the green glow being replaced with a brighter beige one. Luna immediately grabbed the large box of popcorn and buried her muzzle in it.
Alec just shook his head with a grin, knowing that his mare had strange cravings during her pregnancy, just like every other mare. Their gaze was drawn to the floor of the stadium as the spectators started cheering. Rainbow Dash was making her way to the centre stage, Prismatic Blast trotting along next to her, a beaming smile upon her muzzle.
Soarin glided along just behind her, Flaring Haze held in his fore hooves. He touched down next to his wife, the pegasus filly taking the colt into her embrace as her parents stepped up to the microphone. “Mares and Gentlecolts, it is our pleasure to thank you for allowing Ponyville to be used as the first venue this year! And without any further ado, we give you... THE WONDERBOLTS!”
The crowd cheered louder as two thick white smoke streaks appeared in the air, the pegasi quickly forming two large wings in the blue sky. Once at the base of the wings, the smoke streaks headed straight to the ground, before pulling up at the last minute. There was a gush of wind towards the stands, the current line up of the Wonderbolts stood proud with their wings spread, facing the crowd.
There was flash high above that attracted the spectator's attention, and then a large flaming lightning bolt appeared, the trail of fire following the smoke, and the crowd felt the heat as the pony pulled to a stop in front of the others, her mane and tail looking like they were on fire. Spitfire then bowed towards them, the other six following suit, causing an enormous pleased uproar of cheering from the townsfolk. “And for the first time ever, joining us on the tour of Equestria...” All eyes focused on Soarin as he took a deep breath, Dash grinning like a madpony next to him “...we now present to you... THE JUNIORBOLTS!”
There was a thunderclap from high above, the crowd stunned into silence as a small, horizontal cyclone formed, heading towards the insignia in the sky. The cloud wings were soon blown away, the flame lightning bolt being extinguished, and then the vortex turned towards the ground, where it surrounded the still bowing Wonderbolts.
The raging wind finally died down, revealing seven teenage ponies stood on the elder pegasi, one per back, their heads held high with pride. Rainbow and Soarin hopped down from the stage, walking to one edge of the line up each. “Introducing Breezy Splash, trained by Rapidfire.” The little filly joined the stallion in bowing to the crowd, Soarin then pointing to her opposite number after his mare began the instructions..
“Here we have Arcing Thunder, trained by Fire Streak.” The colt followed Breezy in bowing on the back of his trainer, the two doing the announcing moving further towards the centre.
“Next we have Azure Ballet, trained by Fleetfoot.”
“This is Obsidian Wave, trained by Blaze.”
“This little troublemaker is Snowy Charge. Keep an eye on him, mares and gentlecolts. He's probably got something planned. Especially with Surprise as her trainer. ” Soarin smirked as a wave of laughter ran through the crowd, nodding back to Dash.
“And this shy filly is Astral Star, trained by Misty Fly.” Spitfire then rose from her position, accepting the microphone from Dash.
“And finally, the top filly and colt of the class. To my left, Rumble, trained by Thunderlane, who is on leave for the week.”
“YOU BET, AND I'M LOVING IT!” The crowd once more erupted with laughter, looking to the red faced mare sitting next to the smirking stallion, a unicorn foal held between his forehooves.
“Anyway, to my right, Scootaloo, trained by yours truly.” The three then bowed for a few seconds, then the entire line stood back up, the younger pegasi hopping down from their trainers and running to the side. “So, shall we see what these youngsters can do than?” With a cheer from the crowd the Juniorbolts took off into the sky. There were stunned shouts of amazement, hushed gasps of shock, and cheers of joy as the pegasi pulled tight acrobatics throughout the air above.
They finally touched down again an hour later, all panting heavily. Their trainers gave them all a pleased nod as they trotted into the rest area, the Wonderbolts then taking off. Of course, their stunts were much more spectacular, having had more time to refine their abilities. Lightning Dust stood with a prideful smile upon her face as the trainees slipped out of their uniforms, and then she dismissed them to go mingle with the crowd.
Scootaloo and Rumble immediately made their way to the highest set of seats and their friends, who swept them into a tight embrace and began babbling about how awesome they were. The talk stopped as something thudded to the stage behind the seating, and a pegasus stepped around, bowing towards the two adults. “Apologies, your majesty, I did not mean to be so long.”
“It's fine, Spear.” The stallion then stood back up, moving to the side of Luna and turning his eye towards the stadium. “Pray tell, where is Blazing Petal?”
“The other side of the stands, your majesty. She... is escorting my sister and her family.” Alec let a small light shine from his horn, and an image of the mare appeared before them. Accompanying her were another pegasus mare and a stallion, but what made him chuckle were the two fillies bouncing on Petal's back. “Those would be my nieces, sir.”
“Yes... she seems to be enjoying herself. I bet Celestia is as well...”
“Well, even if she is, I'm going to hit the shower. Coming, Rumble?” The pegasus nodded as Scootaloo began walking away with her tail flicking from side to side. Alec smiled as he heard a chuckle from Spear, it being the first time he had seen any form of mirth from the stallion.
“BUCKING DOG, STOP RUNNING!” Celestia galloped down the hall after the runaway, that was just barking back at her, thinking it was a game. The mare ran around the corner and skidded to a halt, seeing the puppy on Faust's chest as she lay on her back, her face getting licked. Celestia took a hold of it with her magic and brought it to her face. “You... have destroyed my garden!”
“Oh Tia, she doesn't know what she's doing! Do you, Fluffball?”
“Alec could've at least chosen a better name! Now, she is supposed to be black and white, not black and brown, so it is bath time!” Faust just stood with a sigh as Celestia took the twins’ pup off to its fate, then looked down and giggled at her muddy chest. Perhaps a bath was a good idea.
Alec frowned, having the feeling that something was wrong. He kissed Luna’s cheek and stood, the mare watching in confusion as he motioned for Warding Spear to follow him. The two stallions flew from the stand, landing just on the edge of Whitetail woods. The alicorn stallion looked along the trees with a raised eyebrow. They then spun around at the sound of struggling, both flaring their wings in a sign of aggression. “Stay still, ya little mongrel! Ya ain’t gonna run away from us again!”
There was a pegasus stallion, his mane unkempt and his fur matted, with an earth pony mare, in pretty much the same condition, and in his forehooves as he hovered… Alec lit his horn and sent a bolt of lightning above the pegasus, causing him to drop to the floor and let his grip on his quarry slip.
Scootaloo instantly ran over to Alec, and he pushed her behind him to Warding Spear, who slipped a wing over her back. “What the hell do you think you are doing to her?”
“We don’t care who you are, we’ll do what we want with ‘er!” Alec’s ear flicked as he caught a steady stream of mumbles coming from behind him.
“Please don’t let them take me, please, please, please, please…”
“And why would I let you do that?” The pegasus stallion flapped closer, a scowl upon his muzzle as he stared the alicorn down.
“Because that little whorse is our daughter, and if she ain’t gonna share her money with her family, then she ain’t gonna earn any money.” His advance was stopped as Spear shot forward, slamming the stallion to ground and pinning him to the floor with a hoof to his throat.
“We’ll see what the law has to say about that. GUARDS!” Several ponies appeared, placing the mare and stallion in restraints, Spear stepping away. “Have them transferred to Canterlot.” The local guards nodded, dragging the kicking and screaming pair away. “My apologies, sir, but I couldn’t let that continue.”
“Heh, I was surprised you didn’t act sooner.” Alec turned back to the shivering ball on the ground, picking her up and holding her tightly. They then flew back into the stadium, where Scootaloo was passed to Firefly, whose eyes went wide at the young mare’s state.
“What happened?”
“Apparently, her parents came to take her. I didn’t see you two out there…”
“No… not them, please not them!”
“You know them?”
“Yes… we’ll tell you about them later.” Alec ground his teeth, getting angry that whoever these ponies were, it was obvious that they were known, possibly notorious. The only good thing was that he had stopped them before they got away. He gave Firefly a nod and flew back up to Luna’s seat, where Spear had just finished informing her of what happened. She glanced at her husband as he landed, cocking an eyebrow at him.
“What? Flame, Sapphy, I’m sorry, but we need to go home now. There is something I must do in Canterlot.” The twins gave a groan, but still slipped onto Alec’s back. They waved to the other ponies and dragon that were seated nearby, just as Rumble shot off to where his fillyfriend’s parents were sitting in the VIP box.
Alec stalked down the corridor with Captain Warper at his side. They stopped at the end of the cells and looked into one of them, seeing the pegasus stallion who had attempted to abduct Scootaloo. A huff drew their attention to the opposite cell, where the earth pony mare was glaring at them. “I still can’t believe you caught them like that, sir.”
“I still can’t believe that two of Equestria’s best burglars brought a sweet little filly like Scoots into the world.” They then continued their walk, heading out of the dungeons and back towards the castle. They saw Luna and the twins just leaving the castle, and the alicorn stallion nodded to the unicorn, who peeled off to another area. Alec headed on an intercept path for his wife, nuzzling her cheek when he got close enough. “And where are you going without me?”
“I am merely pregnant, you do not need to dote on me.” He just poked his tongue out at her, causing the twins to giggle. They flapped their wings and flew up to his back, Flame settling between his wings, Sky resting against his neck, high enough that her head could see over his, looking ahead of them between his ears. “We are on our way to the hospital, I have a check up due.”
“Hurry, daddy!” Alec gave a chuckle as Sky tugged on his mane, and she started to giggle as he bounced his head as he walked along. Luna glanced at his back and smiled as she saw Flame asleep, Alec’s wings raised a little to keep him safe. As soon as they left, two ponies fell into step behind them, and the mare glanced over her shoulder to see who it was, Sky doing the same. “Auntie Petal!”
“Your Majesty.” Alec chuckled, hearing the subtle tone of annoyance in the mare’s voice at his daughter's title for her. He didn’t even need to confirm who the other pony was, Warding Spear remaining quiet as he followed. Mares and stallions moved apart for the alicorn couple, bowing with a smile as they passed. There was a sudden gasp from atop the stallion’s head, the filly shifting so that she was blocking his vision in one eye.
“Daddy, can we go play with our friends?” Alec looked to one of the playgrounds they were just passing, seeing colts and fillies waving to his children, then turned to Luna, who gave him a smile and nodded.
“Yes, you may. Petal, Spear, keep an eye on them.” The two guards nodded, the pegasus stallion giving a small chuckle as the twins transferred to Petal’s back. The two alicorns continued on their journey, Alec’s wing draped over Luna’s back. It didn’t take them long to reach the hospital, the infirmary at the castle being rather busy with training strains. Warper was really putting the new recruits through their paces.
The receptionist smiled when she looked up from her desk, then led them down the corridor to a consulting room, informing them the doctor would be along soon. Alec helped Luna onto the bed, sitting on the chair next to it, running his hoof through her mane. The door opened and a unicorn mare walked in, smiling at the couple that remained staring at each other. “Okay then, shall we get this sorted?”
Alec looked around and smiled to her, giving the mare a nod. Even though he had explored every inch of his wife, the doctor still covered her rear legs for privacy, lifting up the end at the foot of the bed and lighting her horn. Luna’s face shifted a little, the check being a little uncomfortable, but then the doctor let out a surprised gasp, Alec staring at her with worry. “What is it? What’s wrong?”
The mare ignored him and looked straight at Luna, her face clearly serious. “Your majesty, when was the last time you went to the toilet?”
“A few hours ago. Why?”
“I think that was your water breaking. I can see the foal’s head.” Alec’s eyes went wide as the mare galloped out of the room, the stallion taking a look under the blanket to find she was right. He returned to Luna’s side and placed a hoof gently on her cheek, smiling softly down at her. The door opened and the doctor returned with a couple of nurses and a hospital cot. “Right then, I believe you know where to go, so get there.”
Alec nodded and lit his horn, pushing Luna into a sitting position, then slid in behind her. He slowly lowered her back, the mare’s back pressing against his chest, and he leant down to softly kiss her forehead. “Okay, your majesty… I’m going to get things moving now. It could be dangerous to leave the foal like that.”
Luna just gripped Alec’s hoof tight with her own, then nodded to the doctor. The room was soon bathed in a cool, pale green light.
Braeburn stared on in shock as Fluttershy gave another scream, not even registering his hoof being crushed by the mare. He glanced from where the doctor was working on his wife to the two cots next to the bed, a third one remaining empty. His head snapped back as Fluttershy let out another scream, and he lowered his head to nuzzle his wife as a third distinct cry from a foal filled the room.
It was passed to a waiting nurse, who cleaned it up, then placed it into the waiting cot. “Brae… I’m tired.” He looked down to the exhausted face of his mare, her eyes half closed. He softly kissed her on the tip of the muzzle, then turned to the hospital staff.
“Is there anywhere mah wife can go with the youngin’s? Ah don’t think she wants to be away from them.” The doctor gave him a nod, motioning for the nurses to move the cots. Braeburn turned around as Fluttershy groaned, trying to sit up and reaching a hoof towards the foals.
“Braeburn, where are they taking them?” He trotted over and nuzzled her cheek, reassuring her with a soft smile
“Yer goin’ with them, mah lil’ butterfly. We’re goin’ to a room where ya can rest.” She gave him a small nod and lay her head back down on the pillow, closing her eyes. The stallion followed as they took her down the corridor, then paused as he saw the other ponies looking through the window, turning to the nurse behind him. “‘scuse me, miss, could those ponies there come with us? That’s Shy’s parents.”
“Of course, sir. I’ll give you about ten minutes to get settled, then bring them in.” She turned and walked away, the stallion smiling to Posey and Defiant Moonlight as they waited patiently. They gave him a nod and he caught up to his wife just as she was wheeled into a spacious recovery room, trotting over and placing his hoof over hers as her eyes fluttered open. “‘ow yer feelin’, Shy?”
“I’m tired… but I want to see my babies.” He gave her a nod and moved over the three cots, pushing them closer so that she could see them. Tears started to form in her eyes as she looked them over, Braeburn climbing up on the bed behind her. “They’re beautiful… what do we have?”
He nuzzled the back of her head with a chuckle, placing a hoof around her and squeezing gently. “Two fillies, one pegasus an’ one earth pony. T’ other is a pegasus colt. Ah suppose we’d better name them, huh?” She just gave a light giggle at that, turning her head to softly kiss his cheek. “Tell ya what… why don’t Ah name the fillies, and yer can name the colt?”
“Only if I can hold him whilst doing so.” The stallion slipped from the bed and approached the cots, carefully lifting the colt out and passing him to the mare. She gently wrapped her hooves around him, nuzzling against his cheek and causing him to squirm, tiny wings on his back giving a small flutter. He had an orange coat with a dark red mane. “...Harvest. Cyclone Harvest.” The colt gave a small moan, then pressed closer against his mother. “See? He likes it!”
“Ah can tell. Now then, let’s take a looksie at who we got ‘ere.” He picked up the earth pony filly first, whose eyes were open and staring at him in complete wonder, her coat being the same colour as her mother, with her mane a shade darker. Braeburn brought her close and nuzzled her cheek, then slipped her next to his son, and she settled down next to him. “Mah lil’ Butterfly, meet mah lil’ Buttercup.”
“That’s perfect, my delicious Apple. What about the other filly?” The stallion turned back around and his eyes went wide, the third cot being empty. He started to panic, looking around the room, then down at the floor, and started to trot around in his worried state. “Braeburn… look up.”
He did as told, but only had a brief moment to focus as the pegasus filly landed on his muzzle, her bright green eyes staring into his. He carefully made his way back to the bed, where his wife took her from him. She struggled to get loose a little until she looked at the pony holding her, then settled down. The filly had a pink mane like Fluttershy, but her coat was a light purple. “She’s like a cloud. ‘ow about… Nimbus? An’ we can name her after yer favourite flower. Lavender Nimbus.”
Fluttershy just nodded her agreement, before her head fell back to the pillow once more, her eyes fluttering shut. The foals shifted around until they were pressed against her side, her wing coming down to cover them up. The door cracked open, Posey and Moonlight sticking their heads in.
Braeburn waved them over with a smile, lifting his dozing wife’s wing and revealing the three sleeping foals. Buttercup decided then to roll over, managing to fall from the edge of the bed. Posey was there in an instant, the filly held safely between her forehooves. She put her back on the bed and nudged her to the safety of her daughter’s side.
Braeburn slid a blanket over his wife’s back, covering the four as they drifted off to sleep. Her parents gave a nod and moved back out of the room, the earth pony stallion, spotting a couch in the corner. He gave Fluttershy a nuzzle, causing her face to scrunch up adorably, then trotted over to the door and flicked the lights off.
There was just enough coming through the blinds to let him see the couch, and he lay down on it, lowering his hat over his head. Something landed on his chest, and he raised the hat up enough to see Lavender’s green eyes reflecting the low light. He gave a chuckled and pulled her close, the little filly settling down.
He could already tell she was going to be a daddy’s filly.
Scootaloo shook lightly in Rumble’s hooves, the young stallion gently nuzzling the back of her head. They were currently on a train to Canterlot, her family around her in the compartment, which had been closed off to the rest of the ponies by guards. She didn’t want to go, but Warding Spear was insistent that she did. Prismatic Blast was on her other side, the filly asleep soundly, even as her aunt worried away.
Soon the vehicle began to slow, the door opening to allow the star couple of the Wonderbolts inside. Soarin swept Prism onto his back, whilst Dash did the same with Scootaloo, the young mare saying nothing as she was taken from the carriage. A group of guards surrounded them, escorting them to the castle gates, where they were met by the guard captain, who took over.
Warding Spear and Blazing Petal had been following along in the shadows, having decided to wait until Scootaloo had calmed down sufficiently before speaking to her parents. The stallion and mare peeled off from the main group and headed to one side of the garden, the mare gasping at what she saw.
Alec lay with a hoof and his head over Luna’s back, the mare’s up next to his as they just relaxed in each other’s company, their eyes closed. The twins were peering over the stallion’s back at something in the mare’s hooves, which upon closer inspection was revealed to be an earth pony filly, her coat a shade lighter than the stallion’s with her mane a lighter shade of Luna’s.
The filly then yawned and started to squirm around, making Luna bend her head down and nuzzle her. Then she lay still again. The alicorn looked at her other foals with a smile, the pair staring down in wonder, and then she turned to her other viewers. “Warding Spear, Blazing Petal, come forth.”
The pair did as bid, bowing low to the ground, their gazes still locked on the newborn. She was breathing lightly, her muzzle pressed against Luna’s chest, the mare’s forelegs holding her both gently and firmly. “She’s beautiful, your majesty.” Luna smiled over at Petal, who then noticed the pouting come from Alec’s back, and she trotted over with a sheepish smile. “You still are as well, Princess Sapphire.”
The alicorn filly gave a little giggle as she bopped the pegasus mare on the tip of her muzzle, then turned her attention back to the other filly. Petal gave a thoughtful hum as she looked over at Spear, the stallion raising an eyebrow before his single crimson eye went wide. He stood and bolted, the alicorn stallion giving a small chuckle as he showed signs of life at last. “It seems that he should have a talk with Braeburn about his fears. I trust that they have now arrived.”
“Yes sir, Warper met them at the entrance. Moonlight has remained in Ponyville to ensure the peace stays… and to be with his three grandfoals.”
“Three?” The mare just nodded at his question, and he shook his head, turning to nuzzle Luna’s cheek. “Well, we can’t let them beat us now, can we?” She just giggled and nudged his head away, then made her way to stand, Alec lifting the foal to his back in his magic. “Her name is Wonder Life. She may be an earth pony… but she can fly a little and use magic. For now… the evening is yours.”
Petal bowed as the family made their way into the castle, then quickly headed to the apartment she was sharing with Warding Spear for the moment, finding the stallion out of his uniform and sipping a mug of cider. He didn’t attempt to look at her, but she could see the small blush on his cheeks, wondering what he was thinking about.
The carpet soon had its fill of alcohol, the mare jumping into the stallion’s lap and knocking the mug away, wrapping her forehooves around his neck. “So… why’d you run?”
“I had a mission of the utmost importance.”
“Which was?”
“To get back here and pass out drunk before you came back.”
“Too bad.” Petal stood from him and took his wing between her teeth. At first he tried to resist but she bit gently into it, forcing him to follow her. He swallowed nervously as he was guided towards the bedroom opposite his, where the mare resided when not on duty.
Scootaloo hugged Rumble tightly, the two day trial having a result she could never imagine. She purposefully grinned at her birth parents as they were led away in shackles, not to be seen for a long, long time. The young stallion pulled away from her, a concerned frown on his face. This was accompanied by Bifrost doing the same, who suddenly swept her into a crushing embrace.
A shadow fell over them and she turned her head to find Alec scowling at the now closed doors, and they were almost able to feel his barely contained rage. “They deserve worse. Scootaloo, I can heal them for you, if you want me to.” She ran a hoof under each of her wings, feeling the lines along her body, hidden by her fur.
“No. I don’t care where they came from - not anymore - but they’re a part of me. Besides…” she hopped down from her adoptive father’s grip and walked past Rumble, flicking her tail over his muzzle. “...scars can be sexy.” The alicorn stallion snorted, gave the young pegasus stallion a small glare, then left the room.
He made sure to dump his anger before entering into his office, Celestia having told him there was a surprise waiting for him, a good one. She was certainly right, the stallion’s mouth opening but no sound coming out as he saw Luna sat on a couch… with a human baby in her hooves, her hands running over her muzzle and causing the mare to giggle. “What… the… fucoowww!”
He gave a half-hearted glare at his giggling foals, the pair either side of Luna. Alec jumped around in shock as the door was slammed shut, a beige aura quickly surrounding Wonder Life. “What’s the matter, don’t you trust me?” His eyes went wide as he let the human come into focus, before he let his magic drop.
Sarah stepped forward and wrapped her free arm around his neck, the stallion placing a hoof behind her back. The filly started to squirm, and the woman placed her upon Alec’s back. She wriggled around a little but then lay still, her eyes slowly closing. He slowly turned to the couch and climbed up on it next to Sky, bending down to look at the baby. “So… who’s this?”
“That would be Luna, my little girl. She’ll be one next month.”
“And you took her into space?”
“No… she was born in space, just like most of our family these days. Klaus should be along soon… with Alec.” The stallion whipped his head around to stare at her, his face showing his surprise. “Yep, we had twins as well. And, just like you, he’s a handful.” He just poked his tongue out at the woman, who started to giggle.
“So, how long are you here?”
“A few days. Equestria is actually on the route from home back to my station.”
“Home?”
“Once more, Terra belongs to the human race. We could have done with someone of your abilities there, but I wouldn’t let them take you away from your family. Anyway, as a certain somepony has told me, I believe you are due for a night of privacy?” Alec turned to see Luna smiling coyly at him, knowing exactly where her mind had gone. “To that end, along with Faust when she gets here, we’re going to look after all the kids tonight.”
“That’s very kind of you, I’ll be sure to return the favour to you sometime whilst you are here. For now…” Luna stood up and he slowly followed, taking hold of Wonder Life in his magic and setting her down in between the foals. Sky immediately wrapped her hooves around her younger sister and pulled her close, whist Flame moved to her side. Sarah had taken hold of the human Luna, sitting next to the trio on the couch. “Well, I’ll see you in the morning. You two be good, okay?”
The twins nodded to their father, Luna stopping to kiss them on their foreheads, then turned to leave with the stallion. Two white alicorns entered the room along with a human man, who was carrying another baby. Alec stopped and looked at his namesake, then nodded up to Klaus. They carried on with their journey as the door closed, soon emerging onto Luna’s sanctuary, a place that was special to them for, now, three reasons.
The stallion chuckled as an opaque length of fabric was draped over his eyes, his ears twitching as Luna moved around the room. Something took hold of his mane, tugging him forward, and he obeyed. His hooves hit some cushions and he was let go, his horn lighting and removing the blindfold.
He smirked as he saw Luna, and the way she was dressed. He started to step forward, his horn beginning to glow and his wings starting to spread out. “Well then… I guess it’s time to… clean up?” She started to giggle as he nuzzled her cheek and rolled her over to her back, the feather duster clattering to the floor as her mouth became occupied by his.
He pulled away and picked the duster up in his mouth, Luna doing her best to scramble away, but not in time to stop the feathers tickling her forelegs. She lit her horn and teleported to the other side of the room, but Alec followed and pounced on her, making her sink to the floor with a giggle.
He took the cleaning implement in his magic as he leant in to start nibbling on her ear, brushing the feathers over the other one, the mare’s body writhing about under him as she tried to contain her mirth. The stallion let her free and she jumped up, panting for breath with a smile, whilst he just wriggled his eyebrows at her.
Her horn flashed once and he found himself above the bed, falling back first to the mattress. Luna was instantly upon him with a passionate kiss, sliding a rear leg along side one of his. He let out a small chuckle as she pushed his forehooves to the bed, keeping them in place and sitting on his lap.
His head was suddenly thrown back, deep bassy laughter filling the room, the mare having taken the duster to his hooves. His body bounced around as he tried to break free, but Luna knew that he could easily overpower her, yet he remained submissive. She let the duster clatter to the floor and lay on his chest, gently stroking his cheek with a hoof. “Any more, and you might just wet yourself.”
Alec gave a chuckle as he wrapped his now free forehooves around her back, pulling the mare closer. “You’re dressed properly then. You’d have to clean it up.” She slapped his cheek lightly with a giggle, then pressed down into a passionate kiss. Luna pulled away with a gasp as his wings began to entwine with her own, and she bit her lip as she looked down at him, bringing their muzzles closer…
...until the door burst open with a bang of confetti, the new pony standing there with a smile on her face. “CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR NEW FOAL!” Alec just gave a groan as Luna rolled off of him, then sat up to glare at Pinkie Pie, the mare having no idea what she had just interrupted. “So… where is it?”
Pinkie didn’t have a chance to move as a swirling orange portal appeared on the floor around her. She looked down as the centre showed another room, one with a dark stone floor. It then widened, the earth pony mare falling through, the portal changing to blue as she did so. “Right, now she’s taken care of… where were we?”
She looked up in the direction of the alicorn stallion’s voice, just in time to see the portal on this side closing. She sat still for a few moments while her eyes were adjusting to the darkness, and then she realised with surprise that she was in a cell. The one to her left was occupied by a stallion, whose gaze was focused on nothing as he sat still, and the one opposite him housed a very angry earth pony mare.
Pinkie grinned, her bright white teeth reflecting the pale moonlight. “Hi! I’m Pinkie Pie. So, we have a dungeon party? Oooh, is this a fungeon party? I’ll go get Joe!” With that she slipped between the bars and skipped down the hallway, the other two ponies watching her in disbelief.
Meanwhile, back in the room where things had been interrupted, a provocatively dressed mare moaned lightly as a set of sandy brown hooves moved over her wings, the stallion above gently nibbling on her ear, until there was a quiet bark, and he glanced over his shoulder. "Uh... Luna?"
"Yes, my love?"
"I can't."
"Why?"
"There's a dog watching." She leaned over and looked to the doorway, where Fluffball stood watching with her tongue hanging out and tail wagging. The puppy then shot forward and jumped onto the bed, twisting back and forth between the couple as she tried to lick their faces. Alec fell back to the mattress with an annoyed groan, his head turning towards Luna as the puppy settled in between them. “Three kids and a puppy. We’re never having sex again, are we?”
“Not for tonight, at least. But there is always the morning.” With that she sat up and nudged the pup from the bed, who walked over to her basket with her head down, sulking because she wasn’t allowed to stay with her ponies. Luna gave a small giggle as she settled down against Alec’s side, and he laid his head over hers with a happy sigh. “Good night, my love.”
“Good night, my beautiful mare.”
Trudging his way down the corridor, Alec got the feeling something was different, but he couldn’t quite put his hoof on it. Giving a shrug, the stallion pushed open the door to where he had left his foals the night before, smiling at the scene before him. Lying on a large rug in the middle was Celestia, with Sky and Flame pressed against her side, Wonder Life settled between them. Turning to the couch he found Klaus and Sarah, with Alec and his wife’s namesakes on top of them. All in all, it was a rather peaceful setting, until Wonder woke up.
Spotting her father, she wriggled free of her siblings and crawled towards him, the stallion laying down and placing his muzzle on the floor. Once she was close enough, Wonder sat up and reached up a forehoof, boppings Alec on the nose. Giving a small chuckle, he leaned forward and took a deep breath, the filly’s unrestrained giggling causing the others in the room to start waking as he blew raspberries on her stomach, her forehooves flailing ineffectively against his muzzle in order to fight him off..
With a nudge from a smiling Celestia, the twins shot forward and tackled their father, running their hooves over his chest and causing him to laugh uncontrollably. The sudden sound of pained cries drew the room’s attention to the youngest pony present, who was pressing herself firmly against her father’s side. He looked over her in confusing before giving a shocked gasp, his hooves parting the fur on her back to reveal a small stream of blood. “Flame, go get your mother. Tell her to meet us in the infirmary.”
“But… father…”
“NOW!” The colt didn’t look back as he darted from the room, Alec pulling Wonder close to his chest as he lit his horn, teleporting away. Sky blinked with confusion, Celestia approaching and giving her a small nuzzle. Even though she didn’t know why, the filly knew her sister was hurting, small sobs starting as Celestia hid her under a large white wing.
With not much happening recently in the castle, the nurse on duty was absentmindedly flipping through a chat magazine when she suddenly felt a desperate presence, looking up to see a worried alicorn stallion in front of her desk.
“Where’s the doctor?”
“Consulting room two, I’ll get him for you.” He ignored her, using his wings to glide over. She got a clear view as to what he was holding, which made her gallop over as fast as she could. Once she entered the room after the alicorn, she noted the unicorn stallion inside had already taken the filly and was working on cleaning her wounds, whilst Alec watched carefully. A flash of blue drew her attention to the corridor, and she stuck her head out to see Luna looking around with Flame on her back. “Your majesty, in here.”
Luna’s gaze snapped to her, and she quickly entered, moving next to Alec to see what was going on. Unlike her husband, she was the perfect picture of calm, watching as the unicorn attempted a healing spell, only to frown as the magic failed. Alec was about to say something when Luna placed a wing over his muzzle, shaking her head and then moving away, motioning for him to follow as more medical staff entered the room. She led him into the next room, where Celestia was waiting with a red eyed Sky on her back, tear streaks down the filly’s cheeks.
“Luna, what’s going on?”
“Something that I feared may come. We must wait, that is all we can do.” Celestia floated Sky from her back to Alec’s and left the room, leaving the family to watch in peace. Alec was doing just that, his eyes rapidly following each and every movement of the doctors as their hooves and magic swathed over Wonder’s small body. She had been placed under a sleep spell and rolled onto to her stomach, the alicorn stallion frowning as he noticed that they were not putting any dressings on her back, the first unicorn stallion giving a nod to the others as he turned towards the door and entered the room with the worried ponies. “Doctor?”
“I… I’m not sure, your majesty. I’ve never seen anything like it.” The room seemed to grow smaller as Alec slowly trotted towards the stallion, staring down at him with a fire in his eyes.
“What… is going on?”
“She’s… growing wings, sir.” Nodding to Luna, the doctor turned around and reentered the treatment room, Luna coming alongside her husband and nuzzling his cheek softly, nudging his head back to the window, where Sky and Flame were standing on the table, forehooves resting on the window sill, eyes locked on their sister.
“Luna?”
“It… is something that has not happened for generations. You know the Royal Lunar Guards?”
“Those bat-like ponies? What about them.” Spotting a couch on the opposite wall that still gave them a good view, Luna trotted over and sat down, waving Alec over. He gave a deep sigh and followed, the mare pressing against his side as a hoof draped around her shoulders. “What have those guards got to do with Wonder?”
“Well, as you know, my sister and I have lived for millennia, and have had many lovers over that time. Unlike Celestia, who has none, Flame and Sky are not my first children.” She had dropped her voice to a whisper, careful to not let the twins hear the conversation as she pulled away, looking Alec in the eye. “It was at the time of a strange occurence of our solar cycle, a full lunar eclipsed, that I conceived my first child. Or children, as I should say, as I had triplets. In those days, it was very bad for a member of royalty to have foals out of wedlock, so they were taken from me.”
“How… how could they separate a child from its mother?”
“It was not a decision that was taken lightly. I actually fought Celestia and several of the guards, but in the end I gave in, knowing that they would forever be discriminated against for the reasons of their birth. I do not even remember the name of their sire. Eventually, as I watched them, they grew older and found mares… well, a mare and two stallions of their own. All those that knew the truth took the secret to the grave.”
“And… your foals?”
“Families of their own, at least one like them in each generation, then two, then three. There are several hundred now, but the majority of them live in a far away place. Some still reside here in Equestria, where the majority of the Royal Lunar Guards get their recruits from. They also live double the life of a normal pony.”
“Wait… does that mean that Wonder will…”
“No. None of the others ever performed magic, as far as I know. I will have the doctors look into why that is.”
“Growing wings… I have seen stranger things.” Alec gave a small chuckle, turning to Luna and placing a soft kiss on her cheek, then laid his neck over hers and closed his eyes. “I used to know a crazy guy back on Earth. He’d have just waved it off with a joke. Come to think of it, most of my friends were crazy to some degree. So, I assume that means there was an eclipse this time?”
“It is the only explanation, yes.”
“Uh, your majesty?” Alec and Luna looked towards the door, where one of the nursing staff was standing. “She’s settled in now, and we’d like to keep her in for observation until this… period has passed, with your permission.” Luna looked through the window to see one doctor remaining, carefully wiping some blood from the filly’s back, and she gave the mare a nod. “You’re more than welcome to stay in this room for as long as you need.”
Easing themselves back against the couch and each others’ side, Luna laid her head on Alec’s shoulder as they looked over their elder foals, an idea forming in the stallion’s mind. “Rising Flame, Sky Sapphire, come here a moment.” The twins glanced at their sister one last time, then turned to jump down from the table. “No, not like that. I want you both to fly over.” They glanced at each other, Flame spreading his wings first.
His flight was a little wobbly, but his parents smiled as he slowly drifted over to them, dropping into Luna’s awaiting forehooves. Sky took a few deep breaths before she began to hover, then angled her wings so that she moved forward, much smoother than her brother, right into Alec’s lap, who gave a loud laugh. “Alec, what was that all about?” He turned to Luna with a smirk, pointing a hoof towards the window.
“Perfect sibling bonding activity. She’s growing wings, and will need to be taught to fly.”
Young eyes, brilliant azure that sparkled with curiosity and mischief, slowly opened and looked around the room. They didn’t understand the wires connected to the body to which they belonged, nor the importance of the room they were in, but a glance to the side showed them something they did understand; whilst they didn’t know what they saw, they knew that the body in which they resided belonged on the other side of that window.
Wonder Life yawned widely and rolled over, starting to crawl to the edge of the bed. Upon reaching the railings slightly too big for her to climb over, she began to cry loudly, a noise that stirred the two adult ponies in the next room. A pounding formed in her head and she slammed her eyes shut, a tingle over her body making her giggle. A bright flash filled the room and the filly was no longer present; instead she was now snuggled between her stunned parents, Alec staring at her with a cocked head.
“Luna… what just happened?”
“I do not know. Warding Spear!” Once they had heard the news, the stallion and mare now stood outside in the infirmary halls arrived, not leaving their posts even to rest. The door to the waiting room eased open, the one-eyed stallion bowing his head low. “Please fetch a doctor and inform them that Wonder is now awake.”
“Of course, you majesty.”
Whilst he trotted off with his task, Alec lifted his filly up with his magic and twirled her around in the air, looking intently over her new appendages. He pulled them to their current width, stretched them, folded them back up, then touched the leathery membrane with a hoof. Wonder was giggling all the time, which brought a smile to Luna and the twins, for it meant she was no longer hurting. Her eyes flashed once and she disappeared from view, a surprised yelp coming from the hall a minute later. The door opened once more and Blazing Petal entered, half of her vision obscured by the filly that was lying on her head. “I believe this belongs to you, your majesties.”
The group shared a laugh, a doctor entering a few moments later and checking the filly over, giving her a clean bill of health. She certainly seemed happy enough, crawling over, under, and around the twins from where they stood watching over her. Most of the words the doctor said were too much for them to comprehend, but Flame paid interest to the last part of it. “...as to her magic, it seems she does have a horn. As you can see from these x-rays, it has infused with her skull. It’s nothing too serious, we’ve seen this before. She’ll have some bad headaches as she grows, especially around the teenage years, but she should be able to use magic as any other unicorn.”
Luna just gave a nod whilst Alec stared at his youngest, amazed at her abilities and happy they had chosen the perfect name for her. Thanking the doctor, the family left the infirmary, Wonder Life draped across her siblings’ back as they walked along side by side. Luna and Alec walked behind them a little, the mare nuzzling her head under his chin as he placed a wing over her back. “Well, it seems we no longer need to worry for her. Next thing… Blazing Petal said some colts were getting friendly with Sapphire at the play park the other day.”
Alec stopped dead, his eyes unfocused on the corridor ahead as a million thoughts ran through his head, chief of which were things he would do to anypony who hurt his filly. He was given a kick start to reality as Luna kissed him passionately, swaying her hips seductively when she turned and walked away, her wings ruffled. “You’re so cute when you’re shocked. Come, we have an afternoon luncheon appointment with the others.”
In one corner of the Royal Banquet Hall was a very large pile of cushions. Upon these cushions lay a large pile of foals. Four were only a few days old, all curled up around a puppy in the middle and sleeping peacefully. The other ones were a mixture of all four races, some napping, and some awake, as well as the two human babies belonging to the adults that were visiting.
Alec gave a small chuckle as he looked over and saw Rising Flame between both his sisters and using his wings as blankets, his eyes closed, but his ears twitching at every small sound. Watching over all of the foals was a tired Fluttershy, who chose not to partake in dessert nor drinks, Posey doing the same and laying next to her daughter, gently running a hoof through her mane.
The doors to the hall slowly pushed open, an alicorn mare with a happy smile and swollen stomach stepping through, an exhausted unicorn stallion trailing behind her with several large bags in his magical aura. Princess Cadance calmly strode to the empty seats and took one, whilst Shining Armour dragged himself over and sat down with a relieved sigh, the bags thudding to the floor.
Several of the other stallions laughed at his expense, knowing the kind of cravings the mares got when they were with foal. Now that they were all present, the servants brought out several different cakes, pastries and other assorted goodies, followed by copious amounts of alcohol. The treats didn’t last long, same goes for the table cloth’s cleanliness, and soon everypony was sporting a satisfied belly. “So,” all eyes turned to the head of the table, where Celestia and Luna sat, the elder alicorn addressing them as her sister’s lips were occupied elsewhere. “As we have not seen each other for some time, what have you all been up to? Miss Smokestack, why don’t we start with you?”
Rainbow Dash groaned at that name being used to address her, but Soarin just chuckled and wrapped his wing around her, pulling her closer and giving her an encouraging nuzzle. “Well, Spitfire’s last year with the ‘bolts is almost up, so she’s looking for a successor. Naturally, we were her first choice, but we turned her down, because… well, we’re retiring too.” All whispers around the table stopped as the pair became the centre of attention, but instead of cheering adoration like they were used to, they received shocked stares, making Dash a bit more uncomfortable than usual, so she buried her head against Soarin’s shoulder, the stallion taking the cue to take over.
“I’ve been with them the same amount of time as Spitfire, so I’d be retiring as well. We, as in Dash and I, have decided to retire from the show team. We’ll still help train the recruits and attend publicity events, but our goggles are being hung up for the last time at the next show.” The pair looked to the side, where the pile of cushions were, along with their foals. “We want to spend more time with our family, so we’re happy with our choice.”
“Does that mean you’ll be returning to Ponyville, Rainbow?” The pegasus mare poked her head out from under her stallion’s wing and looked towards her smiling unicorn friend, giving a nod. Rarity squealed in delight and her hooves squeezed tightly to the closest thing to her; Thunderlane.
His cheeks started to change colour and he tapped at her hooves desperately, to which she seemed to fortunately notice his discomfort and eased up a little. “It seems you’re not the only one to go home, Rainbow Dash. I have decided to return to my roots, leaving my protege in charge of running the business for now. Don’t look like that, Coco Pommel is a capable mare, she knows what she is doing.”
The once again shocked faces calmed down upon hearing the name, knowing Rarity’s businesses were in safe hooves, and she simply settled against Thunderlane’s side, Jett asleep and held in his father’s hooves. All eyes at the table turned to the next couple down the line, where two similar coloured ponies sat. They were not blood related though, despite several rumours that had done the rounds of Ponyville saying they were. The mare quickly shot them down.
“Shucks, Ah still live there.”
“We, Applejack, we still live there.” Applejack’s ears flattened against her head as she turned to her stallion with a blush, giving him a quick kiss on the cheek. “We’ve just been helping out other Apple farms, but we’ll be heading back in a couple of days. Hmm?” Caramel looked down to see what was tapping at his hoof, seeing Dusty staring up at him. Knowing the colt was going to be quiet, Caramel leant down and let Dusty whisper to him, then gave a small chuckle. “Hey, Alec, can I borrow Sapphy for a moment?”
The filly looked at her father in confusion, but he just nodded, so she got out of her seat and walked around the other side of the table, looking up to Caramel with Dusty to her back. The adults that could see the colt did their utmost best not to laugh at his nervousness, watching as he lifted a hoof and tapped Sapphire on the shoulder, causing her to turn around and go wide eyed at the colt. “Um… P-princess Sapphire… um… I THINK YOU’RE REALLY PRETTY!”
The flowers that were in his hooves were thrust into her face as the bright red faced colt turned and ran into the shadows, Applejack giggling as she went to see to him, letting the others carry on and one stunned filly to return to her parents; she wasn’t even aware the conversation she was listening to a moment before had resumed. “Um, Braeburn and I are moving a bit closer to town, to make it easier to take care of the foals. There’s a team working to move my house this week.”
Alec frowned at that, but in the past decade he had seen a lot of strange things, so moving a whole house in a world with magic wasn’t all that odd. Fluttershy looked down as movement caught everypony's’ attention, Lavender nuzzling against Posey foreleg, then lay still as her grandmother pulled her closer. Twilight still had the library to take care of, now twice as big thanks to the extension she added, and the tomes inside expanded greatly, so all eyes turned towards the last couple.
Joe placed his hoof over Pinkie’s and took a deep breath, meeting her loving gaze with his own, and giving her a smile. “The shop is being passed over, and I’m moving down to Ponyville. With my skills mixed with my wife’s and the Cakes’, we’d be the best treat making ponies in Equestria!”
“I shall hold you to that, Joe, but I will miss my little visits.” The unicorn just gave Celestia a small smile, as he too would take some time to get used to not having his regal early morning customer, but they would have to make do. The little get together lasted long into the night, where Sarah and Klaus were given the very amusing show of Celestia lowering the sun and Luna raising the moon whilst quite inebriated. If not for the sober Twilight Sparkle steadying them, the orbiting masses would have been everywhere, and the reason for the young alicorn choosing not to partake was clear for everypony to see, as she and Cadance held a hoof to each others stomach and giggled when they felt a kick.
Smiling as he looked at the group of friends he had come to love like family over the past near decade, Alec turned and walked out on to one of the balconies, looking over the countryside of Equestria partially illuminated by the light from the moon. He sighed happily as he felt Luna press against his side and their wings intermingled, then let loose a small chuckle when he felt three foals settle onto his back.
Alec looked to the side to see Klaus and Sarah in a similar position, their children held between them, and exchanged a happy smile with Sarah, then they returned their gazes to the distance. Each one was looking to the challenges the future would bring, and knew no matter what the distance, they would be there to support the other in times of need.
Night turned to early morning, and the only ones still awake were Alec and Luna; everypony else, including the humans, had made themselves into a massive pile on the cushions, a large ring around the foals to keep them safe. Taking hold of Luna’s hoof, Alec began to fly into the still dark sky, the alicorn mare following with no resistance. He led her to a small gathering of clouds and they settled down on it, Luna sliding under Alec’s wing and pressing close to his side, giving him a soft nuzzle.
His horn glowed and a magical glow took a large tuft of clouds in front of them, Alec cocking his head slightly until his work was finished, then helped Luna stand onto it. She looked around at the makeshift bed, then lay upon it, about to beckon her husband closer when he instead took flight. She knew well enough he’d have a good enough reason to leave her there, so she laid her hoof under her head and closed her eyes.
She cracked one open slightly when she heard giggling, seeing Alec and their foals looking at her. “It looks so fluffy!” Luna had to agree with Sky Sapphire’s assessment of the bed, so she leaned over the side as her daughter’s horn glowed, giving a giggle at the words that appeared. “There, the SS Fluffywufflekins is ready for boarding.” Alec gently lifted each foal up toward Luna, then moved around the other side of the cloud bed, climbing up behind her.
His horn glowed once more and the sides grew higher, just enough to prevent any of them rolling out as the twins yawned, Wonder Life having already drifted off as soon as she was in Luna’s hooves. Once Sky and Flame had settle down, Alec draped a wing over his wife and foals, lovingly nuzzling the back of Luna’s head. A bit of light hit his eyes, so his lifted his wing up a bit more, covering his and Luna’s eyes from the rising sun.
Back down in the castle, Celestia’s horn glowed faintly as she slumbered, the sun beginning to rise from the eastern horizon, and the castle staff doing their best to keep the noise down as they started the after party clean up. None of them paid any heed to the draconequus as he calmly strode into the dining room, looking at the pile of sleeping bodies in the corner...
...nor did any of the ponies stop working when the pile was rudely awoken by a shower of chocolate milk.
