Rune Cascade

by Valtyra

First published 30th of November, 2013

Frederick, a young inventor fails at his latest experiment. Ending up in Equestria, he has to deal with life as it comes.

After trying to prove that direct time travel was possible, Frederick's experiment broke, leaving him in a new place. Normally he would dust himself off and start again, but that might prove more difficult than expected.

Mlp:fim belongs to Hasbro. Unox and the universe it references, (the "crossover") belongs to me.

Alternate universe is where Twilight didn't become an Alicorn. Romance starts around chapter 10.

Enjoy, like and fave :)

Chapter 1

Only one thing went through Frederick’s mind as he started his experiment, "I really hope this doesn’t hurt." He levitated the lever down, activating the machine and moving the spheres onto their finely calibrated place.

“Here goes nothing...” he mumbled to himself as the runes charged up. He was really hoping it wouldn’t hurt.

He patted himself down, making sure his white lab coat and brown trousers were clean and un- tensed himself by redoing his calming technique that his mother taught him.

“Just breathe and focus,” he whispered under his breath, as he closed his eyes and slowed his breathing; focusing on what he came here to do.

The runes finished charging, then transferred their magic down the runic poles into the centre of the room, their colour slowly changed from light blue to dark red.

“Just a little more, come on.” He shouted as his anticipation grew; he had been working on this experiment for over two years, pumped the last of his savings into it and had to quit his job at the local factory just to focus. He couldn’t fail.

He found an abandoned storage shed, on the outskirts of town to set up in. The area was secluded, meaning no nosy neighbours to tattle to the authorities, that would be the last thing he needed.

After a few minutes of a light buzzing, the gravity well in the centre of the room grew, encompassing the first of two shells that were built around each other in the centre.

The first of which was light grey with etchings on the surface. This signified that it had been enchanted with a mass rune, letting it withstand extreme pressures without crumpling in on itself.

The second was transparent with etchings. The etchings enchanted the shell with a time rune, slowing down anything that came into contact with it.

The experiment, Frederick had hoped, would prove that travel through time was possible; at least at a rudimentary level. There had been reports of success at varying levels across the continent, but most had not even come close to the level that Frederick was planning.

This wasn’t the first time he’d fire up the machine. Only a couple of weeks ago, he started it up with the hopes of creating a stable compressed gravity well, he had amassed enough data to start building the first sphere almost two days later.

Finishing the second sphere a few hours ago, he testing the runes that he hand-etched onto it through careful experimentation of a pesky bird that was keeping him up at night. Surprisingly, it turned out to be a huge success, unfortunately, the bird didn’t survive; Frederick expected it to take longer.

“Ok, time to increase the power,” Frederick mumbled as he pulled down on the lever again, moving it to the lock position, “system seems to be holding.” He moved his unkempt black hair away from his eyes, letting him see again and tore his eyes away from the warped space in front of himself for just second; something had been bothering him since he started the experiment, it had been going too well.

Normally, when Frederick had planned something out, the planning phase would go smoothly, then the building, but the testing would go badly; forcing him to either scrap the project, or remake the entire machine again.

Pushing some paperwork out of the way and pulling the data from the first sphere out of the pile, he quickly looked through it for the gravimetric pressure readings. His eyes shot open as he jotted then down on a note and stuck them to the pressure output screen.

"Right, push core eject if pressure is above that..." he reminded himself, switching his attention from the screen to the experiment.

By now the wind around the shed had picked up quite considerably and had blown the pile of research data off the table and onto the floor. Frederick cursed himself for forgetting to buy a ring binder and took note to put the paper in the right order after he was done.

Shaking his head to get back on track, his amazement grew as the warping space in front of him ripped open as it touched the second spheres surface.

“Just as predicted... though much more spectacular,” he jotted down on some notes, underlining predicted.

Frederick watched as the energy in the machine doubled, then doubled again. Confused and not knowing what was going on, he tried cutting the power; unfortunately when he pushed the button labelled "Dump Core", it didn’t work, leaving the sphere in place and soaking up more energy.

Panicking and throwing reason out of the window, Frederick severed the power lines, leaving them dangling from the roof. Slowly but surely, they started moving towards the tear, being pulled in by the ever increasing gravity.

Finally, Frederick calmed down, “Panicking will get me nowhere...” he said out loud, waving his finger at some imaginary person in front of him, “What will help in this situation?” He asked himself, looking around for something, anything to help out.

He sighed, remembering that he deemed almost everything unsafe and moved them back into his basement before setting the experiment up; then smiled as it proved his point that something always goes wrong.

Chuckling, he didn’t notice the power lines finally reach the surface of the tear. The tip touched it and tore apart, leaving it partially smoking.

Looking back at the experiment, Frederick finally felt like a winner. Sure, he would probably die and the shed would be destroyed, leaving no evidence for the experiment, but it was a moral victory for himself more than anything.

He heard something smash from behind and spun around, he saw that one of the ceiling’s beams had some loose and fallen in front of the door, jamming it closed. Frederick’s heart started beating faster; now he really didn’t have a way out. He didn’t want to die.

He ran over and placed his hands underneath the beam and pulled, trying to move it even slightly away from the door. Unfortunately, years of a mundane job and not working out had left Frederick with a less than admirable physique. Trying his hardest and not making any progress, he cursed himself for not installing windows into the shed and tried lifting it with his magic.

He focused onto specific points on the beam, then breathed in and mentally willed it up and away. He made a small hole, but not big enough to get out. Angry and scared, he lashed out, punching the beam with his fist.

“Dammit, “he shouted, clutching his hand in pain, “should have thought that through...” he mumbled to no one in particular.

Finally accepting his fate, he opened the top pocket of his lab coat and pulled out a small locket. Holding it up with both hands, making sure it wouldn’t move, as it was gravitating towards the growing tear, he opened it and smiled as he saw the picture of his mother, father and sister. They were sitting in the park when Frederick had bought a camera with his first pay check; wanting to commemorate the historic moment.
__
“Ok mother, go on the right. Angela, you’re in the middle and father, you’re on the left.” Frederick said, pointing to each place in turn.

“Our left or you’re left?” His father asked, grinning slightly.

“My left. Come on guys, we don’t have much light, you know how temperamental these things are.” Frederick whined, but ultimately smiled towards his father.

“We know Freddy,” Angela replied, pulling their father into line, “better.” She knew they only had one shot at this and wanted this to be perfect.

“Are we ok now, Frederick?” His mother asked, receiving a thumbs up. The three family members all sat up straight and smiled, waiting for the flash.
__

“Frederick closed the locket and moved it closer to his chest as the tear reached mere millimetres away from his face. He could smell ozone and the hairs on the back of his neck stood on end.

“Remember me...” he whispered as his body passed through the tear, leaving nothing behind.

The tear grew larger until it melted the support structure the spheres were resting on; collapsing, it severed the power to itself and gravity started to decrease, leaving a large crater in the centre of the now empty shed. The only thing left after was the smell of ozone and paperwork.
__

When Frederick awoke, the first thing he felt was pain; pain and confusion, which was good. Pain meant he was alive. Confusion was bad, he didn’t like to feel confused, it made him feel powerless.

Sitting up with a large amount of effort, he opened his eyes and surveyed his surroundings. He was only partially aware that he had moved during his "death", but didn’t think anything of it at the time.

To his right was a large, dark and gloomy forest, but that was to be expected, there were many like it around the city of New Haven; he was still there, right?

To his left stood the wreckage of his experiment, all crumpled and melted. Quickly he stood up and rushed over to it, forgetting about his achy muscles. “There goes the last of my money...” he muttered sadly, no doubt he’d have to move back in with his mother and father; how would he explain that one.

Through careful examination he found some workable chunks of Unox, the power source that was feeding the experiment, then pocketed them. Unable to find anything else and the fact that the wreckage was too large to move, Frederick mentally filed away a note to come back later with Angela to help him move the wreckage.

Standing up from his crouched position, he took a look up at the midday sun, noticing it was shining with more radiance than usual, but put it down to his near death experience.

Looking around again, he noticed some smoke rise from behind one of the hills. He tried brushing off the dirt, oil and other residue in order to make himself look presentable, then started walking towards it.

Frederick was hoping that he hadn’t travelled too far away from New Haven; getting caught outside the walls meant getting a lecture from the guards on "How to be more careful" if you’re lucky and death if you’re not. The forests were not as safe as they once were.

Pushing past some bushes and other foliage, his eyes widened as he saw a small village. He guessed it to be around a few miles away and would take in at least an hour to reach. Sighing, "Great, I’ve been teleported to Shregrove..." he thought.

Picking up the pace, he pushed past some more of the dense foliage and came across a small stream. Feeling parched, he reached down and cupped some water to drink. “Ah, much better,” he mumbled as he sipped.

Noticing his dirty and bloodied face, he went about scrubbing the blood off. His normally black hair looked like it had red highlights as the ends were almost stained with blood from a small gash across his forehead. He hesitantly brought his hand up and touched it, wincing at the pain.

“Three centimetres across, not very deep...” he analysed, licking his finger and slowly cleaning the wound of any dirt and debris. Once finished, he tore off a strip off his lab coat and wrapped it around his head.

Satisfied that his face was clean and his thirst quenched, Frederick stood up and carried on in the direction of the village, hoping to get back to his family quickly, no doubt they would be worried.

Frederick guessed the time was about two o’clock and it was blisteringly hot. Normally, he would associate the heat with wearing his lab coat and walking through fields and he would normally be right, but this time it seems that the sun was warmer than usual, another sign that something was off.

As he trudged through the fields, he kept finding himself staring at the gloomy forest to the right. It looked like any other forest in Alaria, but something was off, something fundamental about it. It made him feel almost repulsed in a way, and slowly moved further away, just so he wouldn’t be curious as to what was making him feel this way.

Pushing through another boundary, he made it to some woods. This time they seemed calmer, almost tranquil with the way the leaves were stained orange and brown. Frederick frowned, it wasn’t autumn yet, and it was just starting to turn spring.

He always knew when the seasons changed, as the store owners would change gear for each season, as soon as the first few leaves touched the ground. This would urge him to finish whatever he was working on as fast as possible for the new season.

Pushing on, he waded through the leaves and slowly made his way through the forest. He cursed himself for getting caught in the tear, if only he had taken more precautions, or researched what how the second sphere would have affected the experiment more carefully, this might never have happened.

Clenching his fist, he calmed himself and stood still for a minute just breathing. “Focus, you are still alive and wherever you are, you can get home.” He told himself.

He carried on forwards, towards the village and stepped past the boundary of the forest onto a dirt path. Some movement up ahead caught his eye and he ducked behind some bushes to not be seen. He wasn’t sure where he was anymore and it was better to not risk being caught.
__

Twilight Sparkle, head librarian and faithful student of Princess Celestia stood on her balcony. It had been a long day fixing everyone’s destiny and returning them back to normal. She shuddered at the thought of Applejack creating more dresses.

She got home and poured herself a nice hot cup of camomile tea, then went upstairs and did some stargazing. It always calmed her down after a hectic day and today was no exception... well, it would have been if some strange light hadn’t of appeared over one of the fields behind the Whitetail woods.

She quickly jotted down the some notes describing the anomaly, where it was and how long it stayed above the field. Confused, she adjusted her telescope with her magic and zoomed in slightly closer.

She could just about focus the zoom enough to make out that it was a small tear like shape, but with no discernable origin. Scared that something new had come to try and take over Equestria, like usual, she woke Spike up and created a letter for him to send to the Princess.

Dear Princess Celestia
I was stargazing and focused my telescope over the Whitetail woods when I saw something strange. Behind the woods floated a strange glowing tear.

Now, I know it sounds crazy, but please believe me. I’m going to go in and investigate with my friends, the other Elements. I’m not sure what we will find, if anything, but I’ll bring Spike along so we can stay in touch.

Your faithful student
Twilight Sparkle.

“Alright Spike, can you send it?” She asked, levitating the scroll over to the half-asleep baby dragon and he incinerated it, sending it to the Princess. “I’m sorry I woke you up. Here,” she tucked him in and pulled the covers over, keeping him warm.

Twilight walked back over to the balcony, smiling from the dragon’s snores and put her eye against the eyepiece. She raised her eyebrows when she saw the tear had disappeared and double checked that the telescope hadn’t changed position even slightly.

Sighing, she checked her notes were neat and placed them inside so they wouldn’t blow away during the night and closed the door, locking it after. She turned around and saw a small scroll laying on top of Spikes belly and picked it up with her magic. Bringing it over to herself, she got into bed and opened it up, smiling at the reply.

Dear Twilight Sparkle

If you are sure you can handle this, I will trust you. If you need anything, don’t hesitate to send me a letter.

I will be awaiting the results of what you find. Best of luck.

Princess Celestia.

Twilight grinned, excited for tomorrow. She had the Princesses trust and she was confident that whatever it was, she and her friends could overcome it.

___

The next day, Twilight awoke and jumped out of bed, waking spike up. “Let’s go sleepy head, it’s a brand new day!”

“It’s too early...” Spike groaned, turning away from Twilight.

“Oh no you don’t,” She frowned, picking him up in her magic and levitating him over to herself, “I told the Princess you were coming with us and that means you are.”

“Urgh, if I have to.” He whined, really wanting to go back to bed.

“Well, I suppose you don’t have to, but who will look after Rarity?” Twilight said, confused.

Spike perked up, “Rarity will be there?” He asked, excited about the prospect of seeing his one true love again.

“Oh yes, every pony will be there,” she replied, smiling. She had him.

“Well, what are we waiting for?” Spike shouted as he made his way down the stairs and into their living room.

Twilight followed behind him, shaking her head at the love-struck dragon. “Well, I have to pack, have a shower and have breakfast,” Twilight explained walking over to the storage closet.

Opening it, she found her saddlebag, blankets, a torch, blank parchment. She spent some time looking for some rope, but couldn’t find any, “hmm... never mind, I doubt we’ll need it.” She shook her head at the nagging feeling that she got whenever she couldn’t tick something off and closed the door.

Her friends had been worried about her when she had broken down, almost destroying the town with her "want it, need it" spell. They had made her Pinkie Promise not to fret over the small things quite as much. This turned out to be difficult, but Twilight saw it as a challenge and tasked herself to beat it.

Walking into the bathroom, she turned the shower on with her magic and stepped inside. After some time, she stepped out smelling of lavender and sighed, “Spike, is breakfast ready?” She called down to her assistant.

Frowning at receiving no reply, she trotted down the stairs and into the kitchen. Stifling a laugh, she stood there watching Spike sway around and groove to some imaginary music only he could hear. He was humming some new pop song and moving the eggs around in the pan.

“Having a good time?” Twilight asked, finally letting out her laughter. Spike froze up and slowly turned his head towards the doorway, shock on his face.

“How long were you there?” He asked, embarrassment colouring his face.

“Not long,” she replied, turning around and sitting at the table, “don’t worry, I won’t tell any pony.”

Spike sighed and asked, “Scrambled or fried?” Breaking Twilight out of reading Equestria Daily.

“Huh, oh scrambled please” she replied, putting the paper down and thinking about what she saw the night before.

Spike came over with two plates, one for him and one for her. Twilight’s one was considerably smaller than his. She frowned and looked up at him.

“What? I’m a baby, I need my strength.” Spike replied innocently, putting on a grin. Twilight shook her head and dug in, eager to get on with the day.
___

Inside of Sugarcube corner, the home of Twilight’s friend Pinkie Pie, it was chaos. Pinkie was shaking and shuddering while trying to keep still. “Whoa, that was a doozy!” She shouted out, holding onto a leg of her bed for support.

Soon after she calmed down, shaking her legs to make sure no more shaking would occur, she heard somepony ring the bell downstairs. Making her way down, she saw that it was Twilight standing in front of the counter, talking to Mrs Cake.

“Oh hi Twilight, what brings you here?” She grinned and hugged her. Pulling back she continued, “Are you here because you want a party, or maybe a cake... or maybe a -” She was stopped by Twilight closing her mouth with her magic. Feeling a bit deflated at her friend stopping her, but really wanting to hear why she was here, she stopped.

“Finished, Pinkie?” Twilight asked, smiling.

“Mhm,” she replied, nodding her head quickly. Twilight released her mouth and she licked her lips.

Twilight looked over to the Mrs Cake, who was smiling behind the counter and said, “Thank you Mrs Cake, I can take it from here.”

“Okay dear, if you need anything I’ll be in the back,” she replied, turning around and pushing past the curtain.

Twilight turned back towards Pinkie, “Sorry Pinkie, I’m not here for any of that,” Pinkie’s grin fell for a second before returning in full force, “I’m here because I saw something in the sky behind Whitetail woods and I want my friends with me when I go in.”

“Yay another adventure!” Pinkie shouted, hugging Twilight and rushing upstairs. A few seconds later, she came bounding back down with a full saddlebag and an extra high skip in her step.

“Wow that was fast...” Twilight muttered, then shook her head, “Got everything?”

“Yupperoony, I’ve got sweets, cupcakes and some plates. Oh and some balloons and streamers... Yup, that’s everything.” Pinkie explained, much to an annoyed Twilight.

“So, basically you are bringing food... no real supplies?” Twilight asked, raising her eyebrow.

“What do you mean?!” Pinkie replied, shocked. “These are real supplies. What have you got?”

“Well, I’ve got some blankets, parchment and a torch... oh.” Twilight said, slightly embarrassed.

“And that’s why I brought food.” Pinkie replied proudly, walking past Twilight and out of the door.

Twilight huffed, rolled her eyes and followed behind; leaving Sugarcube Corner, making her way to Carousel Boutique.

They walked through town smiling and greeting other ponies as they passed, until they reached the residence of one Lady Rarity. Knocking on the door, they waited for a moment before the door opened and Spike greeted them.

“Spike, what are you doing here?” Pinkie asked.

Twilight turned her head, “Oh, didn’t I say. Spike is coming with us, I asked him to inform Rarity on what’s going on.”

Pinkie thought for a second, “Oh, ok,” she replied. The three of them walked into the living room to find Rarity sat on a stool, hunched over a sewing machine muttering to herself, “no... Not long enough...” Before she sat up and turned around, “Perfect!” She announced, jumping off of the stool and rushing over to Twilight. “Please Twilight, stand here. Don’t move.” She commanded.

Twilight moved to the spot rarity indicated and stood, taking care to not move, just in case Rarity scolded her. “Rarity, does this need to happen right now, we have places to be.” Twilight asked, only moving her eyes towards Rarity’s swaying tail.

“Oh of course dear, I won’t have you going into the wood without looking your best.”

“But... we don’t know what, if anything came out of the tear, it could attack Ponyville...” Twilight said, grunting as Rarity tied up some elaborate piece of clothing that was wrapped around her midsection.

“Oh fine,” Rarity pouted. She levitated her saddlebag over to her back and undid the clothing on Twilight, letting it slide right off. Folding it up, she placed in a small box. “Ok girls, let’s find Fluttershy!”

They made their way around Ponyville and towards the Everfree forest, Flutter shy’s house was located, strangely enough, on the edge. The four of them walked up the path to the door, many small critters and animals moved out of the pony’s way and back into their burrows or trees.

Twilight gently knocked on the door and waited for the tell-tale sound of multiple locks being undone. Surely enough, the door opened, “H-hello...” Fluttershy asked, peeking out slightly.

She saw Twilight and the girls and perked right up, “Oh hello girls, what brings you here?” She asked, “I mean, you don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to.”

“Hi Fluttershy,” Twilight started, “We are on our way into the Whitetail woods and I might need your help.”

“Are you trying to find an animal?” Fluttershy replied.

“That’s not what we had in mind. I saw something in the sky and I want to investigate, I would like you girls with me, just in case...”

“Oh, I don’t know.” Fluttershy retreated behind her mane, “It sounds dangerous.”

It was Pinkie’s turn to jump in, “Oh no, it won’t be. I’ll protect you!” Pinkie shouted, pulling Fluttershy to her side with an “exp”. “You can count on your auntie Pinkie”.

“She’s like a year older than you...” Twilight said, annoyed at being interrupted.

“Doesn’t matter to me.” Pinkie replied, grinning.

Fluttershy was starting to feel a lot less apprehensive about the whole trip and nodded, “Ok,” she whispered, “I’ll come along.”

After Fluttershy packed and locked up, making sure her animals all had food and water, she flew after the girls. They were making their way over towards Sweet Apple Acres, Home to Applejack. They walked down the path and under the sign, then up to the door.

Applejacks home, the Apple family estate, stood out like a sore hoof against the thousands of apple trees that lines the local hills; the only area where they didn’t plant the trees was around the Whitetail woods, either way, it was a lot of trees.

Of course, they grew other foods than apples; carrots, turnips and the occasional radish make their way into the stocks, but they were tended to by other ponies.

Twilight, knocked on the door with her magic and stood in front of the steps. The door was opened by Apple bloom, who took one look at all of them, turned around and shouted, “AJ, it’s for you!”

She turned back, “She’ll be down in a minute, come on in.” She waved and moved aside to let them all in. They waited in the kitchen for a few minutes, catching up with the latest gossip on the farm before a sleepy Applejack made her way down the stairs.

“What time do you call this, waking me up, “She said, rubbing her eyes, taking care to not fall down the stairs.

“Wow, this is a rare sight,” exclaimed Rarity, then laughed, which earned a hard glare from Applejack.

“Take a picture...” Applejack replied.

“Ok!” Pinkie shouted before pulling out a camera and taking a picture. After she was done, she placed it back in her hair and turned towards four baffled faces, “What, she said to do it.”

“Oh Pinkie...” Twilight sighed and shook her head. Turning towards Applejack, she explained what she had seen and why she was going into the woods.

“Let me pack and I’ll meet you outside.” Applejack said after a few seconds of thought.

“But sis, you’re supposed to be playing with me today,” Applebloom said and pouted, “you promised...”

“I’ll play with you later. Can’t you go and see your friends and do some crusading?” Applejack replied, hoping it would work.

“I guess...” Applebloom whined, her ears resting low on her head, “I’ll see what Scootaloo is doing then.” She then turned and ran out, across the path.

Twilight turned back to Applejack after watching Applebloom rush off, “Great, I’ll see you outside the Whitetail woods, now we have to find Rainbow.” She explained, rolling her eyes. She knew Rainbow dash would take the longest to find as she would most likely be lounging around on a cloud or something.

“Sure thing, I’ll pack and meet you there, bye girls...” AJ replied, racing upstairs to get her saddlebag ready, she was going to be ready for anything, especially if it was out to hurt her friends.

Rainbow dash had just completed her seventh cool stunt of the hour and was thoroughly tired out. She floated down to the ground and stretched, trying to cool down before a much deserved nap.

Out of nowhere, before she could take off towards a sweet looking Strata-cumulus above, she was caught in a purple aura of magic and couldn’t move. “Who’s there, I can take you!” She shouted and tried to move, but couldn’t.

“Rainbow, it’s just us. Calm down.” Twilight shouted as the group galloped over a small hill

“Oh, hi guys. What’s up?” Rainbow asked, changing the topic, “Twi, can you let me go now?”

“Oops, sorry.” Twilight replied, slightly embarrassed. She let Rainbow go, she straightened herself out and flapped her wings.

The group explained what was going on and Rainbow nodded at some parts, but looked confused at others. “So there’s something bad in the woods... why don’t you ask Celestia to sort it out? Not that I wouldn’t help you.”

“That’s the thing, we don’t know if it is bad or not, we’re just going to make sure. If we can’t sort it out, then Spike will send a letter and Celestia can help us.” Twilight explained.

Rainbow nodded, “Mhm... Cool. I’m in, let’s go.”

Together, the six of them trotted towards the Whitetail woods and met up with Applejack, whose saddlebags were jammed with what looked to be equipment. From there, they trotted down the path, unaware they were being watched from the shadows.

Chapter 2

Frederick kneeled down behind the bushes and waited; slowing down his breathing, so there would be less of a change of being caught. He wasn’t sure if he was in the same country anymore, it was possible he was nearer to the equator, but that wouldn’t explain the lush foliage and half wooden buildings. One of the countries, called Avgrad, sat in the equator on the side of mountains. They used rock as their main building material and having to import in wood meant they couldn’t use it so haphazardly.

The second country, Ahan, lies west of the first, near the coast beside mountains, over half of it being built on marshlands or plains of low elevation, meaning there was very little forest around those areas.

He thought hard about the prospect of having been teleported to one of the unexplored islands and shook his head. “Magic attracts magic, I wouldn’t be able to arrive in a location where there wasn’t any...” He said to himself, whispering, “Then again, it is new magic...”

He broke himself out of his thoughts and moved some leaves out of his vision. He saw six brightly coloured equines, or some variation. He started sweating when he saw that they were communicating vocally, with an adequately advanced language. “I don’t think I’m on Alaria anymore...” He thought to himself. His mind scrabbling for explanations of what actually happened.

Looking down, he felt like all of his focus had imploded to a single point. His vision darkened and threatened to leave him, before he breathed in and out, calming himself. “Alright... If they can talk, they can be reasoned with. But I had better not risk it...” He mumbled, steadying himself from falling over and waiting to see if they would leave.

He documented that two of them looked like regular horses... no, slightly smaller... ponies, two of them looked like pegasi and two of them looked like unicorns. “Improbable, but not impossible I suppose...” He muttered and focused in on the purple equine, “she seems to be the leader of the group, and she seems to be the most skilled at communicating.”

“What I don’t understand is, why are they all different colours? Even the pegasi in Alaria don’t have different colours and they were summoned...” He mumbled to himself, before moving back into the bush as silently as he could.
___

Twilight stopped the group and looked about, “Right, I saw the tear directly in front. I suggest we just walk straight there and look about. Any questions?” She asked, levitating a small quill and parchment out of her bag and creating some check-boxes.

“Yeah, I have one,” Spike asked, Twilight turned her head to look at the dragon who was lounging on her back, “How far is it?”

Twilight frowned and rolled her eyes, “I’d have to estimate a good few hours by hoof, but I can’t tell for sure.”

“Okay.” Spike simply replied.

“Any pony else?” Twilight asked, looking at the girls.

Each of them shook their heads or replied with varying types of “no”.

“Then we can set off, let’s go!” Twilight said, turning around and galloping into the forest, rushing past the bushes and mud that splashed up around her. Behind, she could hear the groans of Rarity whining about her fur becoming “horrid” or “unbecoming” and rolled her eyes.

“Sometimes Rarity...” She thought as she jumped over a broken log and through another mud puddle, her fur becoming stained and messy; but either she didn’t notice, or simply didn’t care. The only thing on her mind was finding out what had caused that anomaly.

Her friends weren’t faring so well and were lagging behind in the rough, uneven terrain. Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash were affected less, but sometimes had to be grounded from low hanging branches.

Rarity kept whining about her mane and tail, while Pinkie just hopped along, hoping to spend some more time with Twilight.
___

Frederick was doing well, he was tracking the ponies through the forest and seemed to be gaining. He was doing so well mainly from the fact that he could hear some sort of, what he guessed, whining and just headed in that direction.

After running, jumping over, and tripping over some logs, he got fed up of getting dirty and simply paced himself. After all, if they were intelligent beings what good would looking dirty bring?

He heard the whining stop and looked about, worried he had been spotted then sighed when he heard it pick up, worse than before. Picking up the pace, he reached the general area where the sound was coming from and peeked over some dense bushes.

He saw the white unicorn being pulled along by two of the Pegasi, most likely against her will. Thinking this was strange, he documented the behaviour and noted it away in his head for later, but didn’t interrupt it; his presence wouldn’t go over well, right now.

For some reason he couldn’t quite see the purple unicorn around and ducked behind the bush and surveyed the area. He saw dense hoof-prints in the mud up ahead and sneaked parallel to them.

Hoping there was no chance of him being seen by the group, he started jogging after the unicorn. He could only speculate why they were here before it hit him, the tear.

“It must have been obvious, a bright glowing tear in the sky doesn’t just go unnoticed...” He thought, before he tensed up, “If they find my equipment...”
__

Twilight had made it to the expulsion site for Frederick’s equipment and had stopped just short of the border. She eyed the wreckage carefully and with hesitant steps, moved forwards.

She was just short of the wreckage before a spark flew off the partially melted metal and landed onto her horn. She jumped back with a yelp and charged up a shield around herself.

A few seconds passed and nothing happened, she kept the shield up and walked forwards, taking tiny steps, not willing to be scared again.

When her shield came close, sparks jumped from the metal to the shield, lighting up the outside with multi-coloured ripples. Fascinated, she stepped forwards before hitting the shields surface. Pulling back, she touched the shield and found it had solidified against her will.

Trying to turn her magic off proved to be useless as her horn wasn’t listening to her commands and kept feeding power into the shield, weakening the unicorn at the same time.

“Girls, help!” Twilight shouted, hoping that her friends would come galloping out the forest and save her. Her hopes were killed when nothing replied, let alone helped her.

She started whimpering with the thoughts that she would exhaust her magic and started to hit herself against the barrier, losing more magic each time she did.

“Why is this happening?” She asked no pony in particular and slumped down against the shield, having tired herself out. Maybe if she just closed her eyes for a second to restore her strength...
___

Frederick ran to the edge of the woods and out into the clearing, before quickly stopping and slipping backwards in the mud. His eyes shot wide as he looked on in amazement at the mass of magical energy swirling around in front of him, “Beautiful...” He said out loud.

Getting up and walking towards it, he felt compelled to become one with it, like his very being needed to meld and lose himself in the energy. Quickly shaking his head, he looked over to the side, spotting the purple unicorn he had been tracking and rushed over to it.

She looked to be inside of shield, but didn’t seem to be awake from what he could tell. He hit the shield, taking note that her face winced each time he did so, along with the glow of her horn. “Magic, of course they can cast magic.”

He turned towards the magical energy and closed his eyes. Breathing slowly, he calmed himself and opened them again to analyse the energy.

He quickly turned to the wreckage, “the energy source must be from my experiment, the energy is floating off of it.” He turned his head towards part of the wreckage which he missed the first time and noted, “the core...”

The core, covered in runes and glyphs seemed odd. Back in the shed it glowed slightly yellow, but now it was a light blue, meaning only one thing, rune corruption.

Frederick frowned, he was sure he created the runes perfectly and double checked them, “I guess I’m not as good as I think I am...” He said, his mood dropping quite considerably. “Good or not...” he mumbled as he walked up to the swirling mass of energy. It seemed to entice him, trying to get him to jump in but he shook its effect off and pulled out the Unox stone he pocketed earlier, “knew I’d need these...” He chuckled darkly and shook his head.

The plan was crazy, absolutely crazy and he doubted it could even work. But the chance was there and nothing else was coming to mind for the young inventor. He pulled out his locket, took one last look at it and held back a tear, he knew this could kill him for real.

He carefully placed the locket back inside his lab coat, near to his heart and buttoned the jacket up. The wind was picking up quite considerably and he could couldn’t hear the shouts coming from behind him as he took a look at the stone he held tight in his right hand.

Bright yellow in colour; Unox stones could power runed weaponry or lighting, tanks or heating, but a slight fluctuation in the power could bring a rune to ruin. Frederick was hoping it would work and create a power cascade, what he needed was a large amount of mana, more than a few stones could give him...

Breathing in, he looked into the heart of the energy and smiled, “Please don’t hurt...” he whispered and walked forwards.
___

“Rarity, please!” Rainbow Dash pleaded, getting annoyed at her constant whining.

“But...” Rarity replied, moving her head side to side, looking at the tiny amount of mud on the bottom of her hooves.

“No buts. Twilight ran ahead, we can’t help her if she’s in trouble!” Rainbow landed, moving forwards, “Now come on!”

Rarity huffed, “I swear, I’ll force you to the spa if my mane gets dirty!”

“Ooh, can I come as well!” Pinkie shouted, hopping over to the bickering mares.

“If you must, Pinkie,” Rainbow replied, “but we have to find Twilight first.”

Suddenly the forest lit up, the darkness was being pushed away from them as a mystical glow formed. The group turned to face it and gasped. They knew Twilight was in trouble now and nothing was going to stop them from helping.

“What is it?” Spike asked, in awe of the glow. He turned to face Rainbow and jumped on her back, “Can you fly above the trees?”

“Sure thing,” she said, taking off and breaking through the treetops.

They turned towards the glow and saw a large mass of magical energy forming. They had never seen anything quite as beautiful, but knew that if anything, Twilight was probably near it; possibly in trouble as well.

Rainbow flew down and told the rest of the girls what she had seen. They decided to quicken their pace, with Rarity at the front; she was feeling guilty for slowing down her friends and letting Twilight go ahead alone.

“I’m sorry Twi...” Rarity thought as they raced through bushes and mud, trying to get to their friend before anything bad happened.

They broke through the border between the woods and the field and gasped at what they saw. A large wreck was sitting in the middle of the field with large strands of electricity arcing off the surface of the metal and onto their friends shield. Within seconds, the group had rushed over, being careful to not disturb the shield or move near the machine.

Rarity, being a unicorn, tried to interrupt the shield spell that Twilight was feeding with one of her own, but was unfortunately not able to do anything about it. In terms of raw power, she just couldn’t compare to Twilight.

Applejack and Pinkie was next, deciding that raw strength was the answer and bucked the shield. As soon as their hooves touched the shield, they heard a sound like glass shattering and turned to find they had cracked the surface; a look of pain etched into Twilight face as well.

Feeling guilty for causing their friend pain, but not knowing what to do, they decided to focus on the mass of energy that was growing slowly beside them.

“Oh my... there’s something in there!” Fluttershy gasped, hiding behind Rainbow Dash.

“I don’t see anything,” Spike replied, moving forwards to get a better look. Eventually, his eyes focused and the glow softened to show an upright creature just in front of the energy.

It looked down to something in its grip and... Laughed? Spike couldn’t recognize it; even with his late nights talking with Twilight about mythical creatures of Equestria. He took his eyes off it and walked over to the shield; placing his claw on the surface, but not applying any pressure, lest he hurt Twilight. He began to cry, “Twilight... please...” he choked out, tears sliding down his face. Pinkie moved to his side and place a leg around his shoulders. He turned and hugged her, thankful for the compassion.

The rest of the girls saw the creature standing there laughing, but could not hear it over the sound of the wind whistling past. Rainbow, deciding it was better to do something than watch it stand there, tried moving towards it; but the winds were too much and she was forced back.

After it seemed to stop laughing, it stepped forwards into the light. The glow brightened considerably, forcing the group to cover their eyes. After they were sure that the glow had receded, they took their hooves away to see that the mass was dispersing.

Fluttershy looked over to Twilight and shouted, “Girls, Twilight!”

Spike ran over and shook Twilight. She frowned, then her eyelids opened, revealing her violet eyes. They darted around then settled on her friends. Smiling softly, she got up out of the mud and shivered; she wrapped a leg around Spike, “I love you Spike,” she whispered to the dragon, causing him to tear up again.

She trotted up to her friends and hugged them all, “I don’t know what to say...”

“There’s no need to say anything dear,” Rarity interrupted, “It’s my fault that we weren’t with you, I am sorry.” Rarity moved forwards and stopped, “can you ever forgive me?”

“Oh Rarity, do I even have to say it?” Twilight replied, hugging the unicorn tightly. Pulling back, Twilight spoke up, “thank you girls, you really saved me there. I guess I shouldn’t try to solve a problem all by myself...”

The rest of the group smiled and pushing the memories back, nodded. “But I’m curious, how did you stop it?” She asked, looking about, she watched the final piece of mana disappear into the atmosphere.

“To be totally honest, we didn’t really do anything...” Applejack replied, taking her hat off to scratch her head.

“What do you mean?” Twilight asked, confused.
___

Frederick walked down the road, he had just passed the test to get into the most respected college this side of Alaria and nothing could bring him down. “Hey there Frederick, nice day isn’t it?” A passer-by shouted to him from across the street.

“It most certainly is, enjoy it!” He shouted back, feeling on top of the world. His show of mnemonic shield casting in 4d space was, in his opinion, a little showing off; but it did get the job done. The judges were so impressed that they accepted him almost instantly.

Frederick passed the local bakery and turned off down one of the side passages that passed over the river. It had been a long time since he’d used this route, but he felt like a change; soon he’d be moving to the capital, High Prez and wouldn’t see any of this again.

High Prez, the largest and most well established city in the country, it had the best mage college. This meant that he could finally move away from this city, as well as it is.

But as he passed a news stand on the corner of the passageway, his mood dropped. “This isn’t right...” he thought as he picked up a newspaper and read the title, "Alaria declares that Dr Gyle Pare, should wake up!"

"Dr Gyle Pare should forget about his dream of a unified continent." Said a student of Life Mechanics and Rune Modelling at a latest conference.

"I feel it’s time for Alaria to start believing in itself and try to fix the problems that we have tried so hard to ignore," Dr Pare head lecturer for Rune Research and Development was heard saying at one of his lectures.

Everyone here at the New Haven echo feels that he should just go back to what he knows best and not meddle in the affairs of other people."

“There’s something wrong, he didn’t want a unification...” Frederick spoke quietly as he placed the paper down and walked off. He passed along the side of the river, watching the factories. After a few minutes of thinking, he felt calm enough to go home and tell his mother and father the good news, he wasn’t sure what their reaction would be.

Frederick paced himself and made it home before the sun was setting and opened the door. Inside was his mother cooking dinner and his father out in the back chopping some wood.

His mother turned around and walked up to him. Hugging him, she asked, “How was it?” With trepidation.

“I... I passed,” he replied, smiling.

Grinning, his mother started jumping up and down. She ran outside and pulled her husband in, “he did it, and oh I knew he would.”

“I know you did, honey.” His father said before turning to his son, “Well done son, I know you will do great things.” He patted Frederick on the back and pulled him in for a hug.

Frederick rarely experienced his father like this, he was a hardworking, no nonsense guy. So he did what he thought was best and hugged back, thankful for the closeness. His mother stood there with her hand on her cheeks, smiling for her son.

“Again with this nagging feeling...” Frederick thought as he sat down for dinner. He looked around the room. “Shouldn’t there be a third?” He mumbled as he focused on the chair next to him, “my sister should be here.”

Breaking Frederick out of his thoughts, his father asked, “What did you show them?”

“Hmm, oh... I just showed them how to use 4d space to reinforce a mnemonic shield.” Frederick replied, slipping back into his thoughts.

“How lovely. My son, the genius!” His mother announced, clinking her glass against his father’s.

“Where’s Angela?” Frederick asked, looking over to his father.

“Who?” Both of his parents replied, confused. His mother perked up and said, “I think Freddy has found a girlfriend!”

“What, no!” He shouted, getting up from his seat, “my sister, where is my sister?”

“Frederick, this isn’t funny anymore, you don’t have a sister.” His dad responded, also getting up, “I think it’s better if you sit down, you’ll upset your mother.”

“No, I’m leaving!” He shouted, making his way to the door. He was blocked by his dad, who was standing in the doorway. “Please dad, I don’t want to hurt you.”

All he saw was his dad try to grab him then a flash, then his dad on the other side of the wall; a hole where he slammed through. His mother staring at him like a monster; Frederick panicked, he ran out onto the street. It felt like hours before he stopped running. Frederick had made it to the other end of the city and things looked a lot different here.

Colours were running off the walls and everything looked darker, as if everything was out to get him. “What’s going on?!” He shouted out across the river.

“It’s falling apart.” A females voice from behind replied.

Frederick spun around and readied a small shield, “show yourself!” He commanded.

“Don’t worry, I’m here to help.” The voice replied, sympathy evident.

“Really, then come out,” He asked, looking around, “forgive me if I seem to be a little apprehensive, this place is not known for its hospitality.”

The voice laughed and Frederick felt a little calmer. He watched as a slender girl with waist length black hair walked out of the shadows between two factories. She was wearing a knee length, gothic dark blue skirt. She looked around twenty, but had a wise look in her eyes. He kept his shield spell ready, the bandits around this area are known for their tricks.

“You still don’t believe me...” The woman asked, a little saddened. She walked up beside him, noticing him tense up and move away. “If you look over there, you can see it cracking,” she said, pointing over to one of the factories that were fading away.

“What’s going on,” Frederick asked, scared of what he was seeing.

“It’s simple, you’re in a dream.” The girl replied, with a grin, “and a well-constructed one at that, I’m impressed,” she praised, inspecting the cobblestones under foot.

“A dream... no way. I remember walking here.” Frederick said, refusing to believe her.

“Is that so?” She asked with a smirk and raising her brow. “Ok, what did you do before you walked here?”

“I had dinner with my family...” he started, before being interrupted.

“Before that?”

“Walking home.” Frederick explained.

“Before that?” The girl repeated, her grin getting slightly larger.

Getting annoyed at the barrage of questions, Frederick tried replying to prove her wrong, but he couldn’t remember, “I don’t know... wow.”

“Exactly. Now let’s go before this dreamscape breaks apart and you wake up.” The girl held out her hand and waited for Frederick to take it. She wiggled her fingers, “I don’t bite.”

He took her hand and in the span of one blink, they had changed location. He looked around and found himself in a luxurious bedroom. Various chairs were placed together in front of a fireplace, bookcases lined one wall and on the other were two double doors leading outside to a balcony. Behind him stood a queen sized, four poster bed, big enough to fit five people in. Laying under the bed was a large red rug that travelled the length of the room, only stopping just short of another double door that had an engraving of a crescent moon. Looking up, he saw that it was as if the stars themselves were painted directly onto the ceiling, sparkling with real beauty.

Suddenly, he remembered that he had sacrificed himself and that he was dreaming. He turned to the girl and stumbling back, shouted, “What manner of blood magic is this!”

Taken aback, she frowned and asked, “Excuse me, what is this "Blood magic" you are referring to?”

“You know full well, mage!” He continued shouting.

“Please, end your senseless accusations.” She pleaded, “My name is Luna, my sister and I are co-rulers of this country, Equestria.”

“I... I’m really not in Alaria am I?” He asked, his anger crumbling into nothing. He looked into the girls eyes and saw sympathy, it reminded him of his sister. Moving his hand to his face, Frederick started crying, tears fell through his fingers and onto the floor, forming small damp spots on the rug.

Luna walked over and hugged him, “I’m sure my sister and I will find a way to get you home. You did save one of ours after all...”

Frederick looked up and sniffed back some sobs, “It would never have happened...”

“If you had never have come here. It doesn’t take away from the fact that you did save her; for that, we are eternally grateful.” She smiled and hugged him again, showing how much it meant.

“Sorry about shouting at you...” Frederick said, feeling annoyed that he jumped to conclusions.

“Please, don’t be. No harm came from it.” She walked over to another chair and sat down, “I saw some strange things in your dream.”

Wiping away the last of his tears, Frederick made a mental note to work out his feelings at a more appropriate time. He had the prospect of teaching something someone, this was more important than getting emotional. “What do you want to know about?” He asked.

“Can all of your kind do magic?” Luna asked, sitting on the edge of her chair, waiting for an answer.

“Well, some of us. You could say I’m one of the unlucky ones,” he replied with an undertone of sadness.

“What do you mean?” Luna picked up on the tone and moved back in her chair.

“Mages are not welcome in most civilised countries... at best, they don’t trust us. At worst, they kill us.” Frederick explained, “as Alaria developed, we used these crystals called Unox, the power certain runes, or etchings if you will.” He paused for a second before continuing, “As we used more and more crystals, the more magic was released into the world... of course we didn’t know this at the time.”

Luna frowned, she couldn’t understand a world without magic, “so there were no "mages" before the crystals?”

“No, foetuses in the womb absorbed the magic, giving them the ability to manipulate ambient magic.”

“That doesn’t explain why people don’t like your kind.” Luna said.

Frederick sighed, he didn’t like the story in school and certainly not now, “there were a group of mages, they formed around eight years before I was born. They were only teenagers at the time, but they had the ability to level villages. The military was called in and finally killed them, but not before half of the troops died.”

Luna’s mouth hung open, “So that’s why...”

“Yeah.” The silence that followed was almost painful.

“Do your parents know?” Luna asked.

“No they don’t, only my sister knows; I trust her enough.” Frederick replied, holding in some tears, knowing he will never see her again.

“I... don’t know what to say.”

“Well, let’s get off tragic subjects like this. How come you look human? Surely you’re also a pony, like that purple one and the group?”

Shaking her head, she walked over into the middle of the room.

Chapter 3

Princess Luna walked to the centre of her room and closed her eyes; the moonlight bouncing off her dress, making it look like the stars were interwoven with the fabric. The moonlight’s glow grew until Frederick had to close his eyes.

When he opened them again, he saw that instead of the young girl with the blue dress, there was a different type of pony in her place. “I take it this is your normal form?” He asked, getting up from the chair and walking over.

“That is correct. My sister, my niece and I are Alicorn; we rule over Equestria.” Luna explained, moving her hair out of her face, “Am I correct in thinking you don’t have any Alicorn on your planet?”

“No, we don’t.” Frederick replied, “This is still a dream.” He stated, not expecting her to reply.

Luna nodded, “Your dream broke down, and I brought you into my own and was asked to see if you were dangerous.”

“Am I?” He asked, raising an eyebrow.

“I don’t know, those canines seem quite sharp. There’s nothing stopping you from pouncing on me.” Luna grinned, “I doubt I’d even put up a fight...”

“It’s lucky for you that ponies taste awful to me,” he relied, receiving a gasp. Luna backed away, an unreadable expression on her features. “I’m joking!” Frederick said, laughing, “You’re not the only one that can make jokes.”

“So you didn’t eat ponies?” Luna asked with uncertainty.

“No, of course not.” He replied, “I’m sorry it was such a morbid joke though.”

“I, uh, guess it’s alright. But anyway, I think it’s time that you wake up.” Luna said, moving towards Frederick, “I still have to tell my sister that you’re safe.”

“Oh, I hope I haven’t offended you. If I have, I’m sorry.” He pleaded.

“No, you haven’t. I simply have to get back to my royal duties and this has taken up a fair chunk of time.” She explained, placing her horn on his forehead, “we’ll meet again, soon.”

“Goodbye princess, thanks for the talk.” Frederick replied, smiling. A cool glow enveloped him and for a second he felt a large amount of vertigo, then woke up.

Frederick opened his eyes to the cold glow of a hospital room. Sitting up, he looked around and saw that the room was sparsely furnished with surprisingly small furniture. “Of course... ponies, “he thought, knowing it would take some time to get used to the thought of living with ponies.

The room was painted a light blue colour, of which he’d only seen in children’s wards. Beside the left wall stood a small bookcase with less than full shelves. Next to his bed was a table with a tray placed on it, a small selection of meats, fruits and vegetables, “They must be seeing what I like to eat.”

The bed seemed a little too small for himself as his ankles hung off the edge. He moved them up as the room seemed a little cold and pulled the covers closer to himself.

“Wait...” he muttered, pulling the covers up, “they took my clothes... of course they did.”

He heard the sound of hooves on the ground and covered himself. The door to his room opened to reveal a completely white pony. She wore a nurse’s hat on her head and her red mane was bunched up behind her head.

Frederick sat still and watched as she walked into the room and looked at a chart that she was somehow holding in her hoof. She looked up at him and her eyes went wide, “Y-you’re awake!” She shouted, before looking back down to her chart. She walked over to his bed and read out the diagnosis, “You had third degree burns over forty percent of your paws, and you were in a coma for three days.”

Frederick looked down to his hands and looked them over, there were flecks of Unox still embedded in the skin, but other than that, they seemed perfectly ok. “How did you hear them?” He asked, making the nurse and himself jump at the roughness of his voice, “water please.”

The nurse pass him a cup of water and he downed it, sighing in relief, he coughed and said, “Again, how did you hear me?”

This time, the nurse didn’t seem quite as reluctant and replied, “The princesses personally helped out in surgery, it saved us a lot of time.”

“The princesses...” Frederick mumbled, before turning to the nurse. “How is that purple pony?” He asked, “Is she ok?”

“Purple... oh yeah, her name is Twilight sparkle. She’s doing well, just a small cold from laying in the mud.” The nurse replied, smiling, “I suggest you don’t move, I’ll tell the Princesses that you are alright to see visitors.”

Frederick nodded and the nurse retreated out into the hallway. He laid back and pushed back the creeping tears, he knew he was on a new planet, but didn’t know it would this strange. “If anyone said I’d be talking to ponies...”

“Then you’d be rich.” A soothing voice replied from the doorway. Frederick moved up and saw a large Alicorn standing in the doorway, “isn’t that how the saying goes?”

“I guess so,” Frederick said, analysing her. “Slightly bigger than Luna and certainly more confidence...” he thought, taking mental notes.

“I see you have recovered well, did you have a nice conversation with my sister?” She asked.

“I did, at least I think it was.” He replied, before saying, “You’re Celestia?”

“I am indeed,” she said, moving closer to the bed, “my sister told me some information about you.”

“What kind of information?” He asked, “I take it, it wasn’t anything horrible or you would have place me in your equivalent of a dungeon.”

“Of course not, my sister has the ability to read into a pony, while it’s more difficult with other species, she can still do it.” Celestia explained, sitting on the edge of the bed. “She said you are a scientist, is that correct?”

“Close, I’m more of a tinkerer. My main job was in a factory, like everyone else.” Frederick sighed, “I quit just before to work on an experiment, guess how that turned out...”

“I see, she also said you can do magic, can I see that?”

“It’s just basic telekinesis, nothing special. I’ve had to hide it, making it difficult to practise.” He replied, lifting up the cup of water, “I prefer to use my hands anyway, it feels less numb.”

“Yes, Luna explained why you had to hide it... don’t worry; while you’re living in Equestria, no harm will come to you, I promise you.” Celestia stated, placing a hoof on Frederick’s leg.

“Thank you princess, it means a lot.”

“It’s the least I could do, I am in your debt.” She got off the bed and moved to the door, “I’ll see if Twilight and her friends are well enough to see you, I’m sure they will want to thank you.”

Frederick nodded and watched as Celestia walked out of the door. He heard some quiet talking and waited till it died down. A few minutes later, he saw the same purple unicorn walk slowly through the open doorway, her friends in tow.

She levitated a few chairs over and jumped up on one of them, closest to Frederick. She took a few seconds to sniff back her runny nose then said, “Hello, my name is Twilight sparkle. What’s yours?”

Frederick coughed, not expecting the formality, “I’m Frederick.”

“Well Frederick, thank you for saving my life.”

“I, uh,” Frederick stuttered, “no problem, I guess...”

Twilight smiled, “What’s wrong?”

“Well, to be honest, I wasn’t really thinking of you... or anything really. I was just...” Frederick chuckled, which transitioned to full on laughter. “Oh man, I’m sorry, it’s just,” his laughter died down, “I’m stuck here, and nobody asks me how I’m doing, maybe I’m not alright, maybe I’m hurt!”

Twilight pulled the chairs away with magic and jumped off, moving towards the door, “Nurse!” She called out, getting scared.

Rainbow got up out of her chair and raised her wings in front of Twilight, “Listen here, just because you saved her, doesn’t give you the right to be a jerk!”

“Me, a jerk!” He laughed, getting out of bed, not caring he was naked, “I’m on a planet which could be in a different universe for all I know, with no friends, no family and you call me the jerk!?”

Rainbow’s expression faltered for a second, before coming back, “How do we know you didn’t plan this, huh.” She jabbed a hoof at him.

“Rainbow...” Fluttershy said quietly, behind Rarity.

“How do we know you didn’t want to come here, create that... thing and hurt Twilight?”

“Rainbow...” Fluttershy spoke up a little louder.

It was Rarity’s turn to speak, “She’s right. How dare you shout at us, when we brought you all the way here?”

“You should have let me die there, at least I wouldn’t be reminded, and I’m all, alone!” Frederick shouted, moving forwards towards the group.

“Frederick!” He heard Luna shout. A few seconds later, Luna walked into the room with an angry expression on her face, “what art thou doing!?”

“I,” Frederick was speechless.

“Nay, do not think to answer that. How dare thou show anger to them?” Luna shouted again, quite loud in his face. “Thou art but a well to them, yet thou has the nerve to call them petty names?

Frederick lowered his head, his anger dissipating. His face lost its red tinge and he was left with a strange feeling: nothing.

Luna backed up, giving him a little breathing room, “Well, anything to say?”

Frederick’s expression became unreadable, “I...I’m sorry.”

“Good,” Luna turned around to the group and looked at Twilight. She leaned down and whispered, “He’s going to need your help more than you think.”

Luna pulled back and looked at each pony in turn, “It wasn’t just him, was it?” She asked, looking at Rainbow Dash, who still had her wings up.

She quickly tucked them down and smiled sheepishly, “No, I guess not.”

Luna raised an eyebrow.

“Ok, geez.” Rainbow walked forward and Luna moved out of the way. Making her way up to Frederick, she looked back at the girls with a look of exasperation. They nodded and shooed her on.

Turning back she saw that Frederick was looking down at her with a piercing gaze. Well, to her it looked like that, in reality it was quite neutral. “Look, I’m sorer...”

“Ahem.” Luna coughed.

“I’m sorry alright,” Rainbow shouted, rubbing her leg.

“Okay,” Frederick replied calmly, and looked over to the bed, “Where are my clothes?”

Luna frowned at that blatant disregard for the Pegasus’s feelings, “You didn’t have any on, when you came in.” She snapped, pulling the Pegasus away from him.

“Girls, can you leave,” she asked, not turning around. The group shuffled out, whispering about how much they didn’t like him. After Fluttershy left, she closed the door.

Luna stared at Frederick, then turned to look outside. There was a golden sunset filling the mostly empty sky. “Frederick, I hope you know that Celestia and I will find you a way home.” When she heard no response, she carried on, “Those ponies saved your life, the nurse didn’t tell you everything...”

Luna turned around and saw that Frederick had taken one of the bed sheets and covered himself up with it, then sat on the bed. He was looking at her with a sad look in his eyes.

As much as she didn’t want to, she had to tell him the state he had been in. “While you did have extensive burns on your paws-” she was cut off by Frederick.

“Hands,” he said coldly, “they are hands.”

“Oh, my mistake. Carrying on, the girls found you unconscious and bleeding from several areas, most notably your lungs. The stones of Unox had burst, piercing your chest.” Luna sighed, “Fortunately Twilight and Rarity had taken basic lessons on healing magic, and otherwise you would be dead.”

Frederick sat there, looking down at the ground, blinking once in a while.

“Do you understand?” Luna asked, “They literally saved your life.” No reply. She groaned and shook her head, “be that way, I asked Twilight to house you for the time being, maybe she can talk some sense into you.” Luna turned away from him, opened the door and trotted out; slamming it shut.

Frederick turned towards the door, then took a deep breath. “Why did I get thrown here...” he thought as he played back and closed his eyes.
___
Luna huffed as she walked out of Frederick’s room. Immediately, she was bombarded by questions from the girls. “Please, calm yourselves,” she asked, moving through them and down the corridor.

The group followed her, keeping quiet; every so often she could hear Rainbow mutter something unbecoming of a mare. They walked out a set of automatic doors and into s small courtyard, “One at a time,” Luna said, laying on a stone bench.

The girls looked at each other, then to Twilight. She rolled her eyes, “Oh alright,” she muttered, “Princess, he-”

“I know what happened. I had been keeping an eye on him since he woke up.”

“Then why didn’t you stop him when he started getting angry?”

“I wanted to see if you could defuse the situation before I needed to step in. You didn’t.”

Twilight looked down, her ears folding back. The rest of the girls had a similar look as well.

“Nevertheless, what’s happened has happened. You will all have to be there for him, he’ll be fragile from now on.” Luna looked up to the sky, a small frown on her face.

“What do you mean? Will he get angry again?” Pinkie Pie asked, a little sad.

“No Pinkie, he won’t be himself for a long time.” Luna looked back down at the group, “I saw his true self, it’s nice...” she trailed off.

“Nice? How was he nice?” Applejack spoke up.

“Applejack, he’s in a strange new world. You would be a little angry if you couldn’t get back to Applebloom or Big Macintosh.”

“Of course I would,” she replied, before a she looked away in shame, “Of course, he has a family of his own.”

Rarity flipped her hair, “I think I’ll make him some clothes as an apology, it’s the least I could do. OH, I don’t have his measurements!”

“You can get them when he is settled in,” Luna suggested, “He’ll get discharged tomorrow and you will all help him out, no matter what.”

“Yes Princess.” The girls said together.

“Good. Now I think I’ll take my leave, it’s getting late and I need to raise the moon.” Luna opened her wings, pushed off the ground and flapped, flying away.

“I think I’ll go back home, I need to prepare for him to stay,” Twilight said, turning to the girls, “Oh no, I’ll have to clean out the spare room,” She muttered to herself as she walked off towards the exit. Stopping outside Frederick’s room she pressed an ear to the door, but pulled back after hearing muffled sobbing.

Exiting the hospital, Twilight walked down the path towards Ponyville. She was contemplating how life was going to be with Frederick living in the same house. “I hope it isn’t too bad, Spike might not enjoy having another stallion under the same roof...”

She made it to the door of the library and pushed it open in her magic. Trotting inside, she saw Spike laying on the couch and smiled. She let him sleep there for a few more hours as she tidied out her spare room. She placed everything in two piles, stuff she needed and stuff she didn’t; she placed the stuff she did need down in the basement and stuff she didn’t in large bags which she would later donate.

Looking back over to Spike Twilight lifted him up in her magic and carried him upstairs, taking care to not wake him. Feeling scared for the future, she placed him in her bed and wrapped a leg around him, holding him tight. Slowly, she felt herself drift off to sleep.
___
The next day, Frederick awoke to the sound of chirping birds. He turned over and tried to muffle out the sounds by using his pillow. This proved ineffective and soon he found himself lying wide awake. Last night, after the Princess had left, he had tried to get to sleep, but in the end it didn’t work and he cried himself to sleep.

“I’m guessing I have to spend more time with that group...” He muttered as, against his own will he got up. He wrapped a different sheet around himself; a thicker one this time and tied it up.

A few minutes after, he heard hoof steps and turned to face the door. The door opened and in came the nurse from before, “Oh, it’s good that you are up...” She trailed off, looking at her chart, “It seems you can be discharged today; how do you feel?”

“Alright.”

“Uh, ok then... I guess you can follow me then.” She turned and walked out the door. Frederick followed and every so often, the nurse would turn around and check on him.

“It’s obvious they don’t trust me,” Frederick thought, keeping a neutral face.

The nurse made it to the front desk and picked up a small form in her hoof. She passed it to Frederick, “Can you sign this please.”

“Sure.”

Signing his name, Frederick passed the form back and she smiled, making him frown for a second. She turned back and said, “Ok, now you’re officially discharged. But we can’t let you go until Twilight Sparkle arrives, so I’m going to have to ask you to wait in that area over there,” the nurse leaned around him and pointed to a small waiting area where a small colt was sitting.

“How long will she be?” Frederick asked.

“Not sure, it’s just past ten in the morning, meaning she should be up by now; or on her way, she’s very punctual.”

“Okay.” Frederick walked over to the waiting area and sat down. The small colt looked over and smiled at him, making Frederick look away.

“You look weird,” the colt exclaimed, surprising Frederick.

He turned to face the colt, “I’m sorry you think so.”

The colt stopped smiling and turned away, preferring to play with his toys than speak to somepony strange and mean.

Frederick turned and waited, staring at the door; he wanted to leave. Ten minutes passes and the automatic doors to the hospital opened, revealing Twilight Sparkle. She rushed in and looked about, finally locking eyes with Frederick. Twilight walked up to him, being mindful of the distance.

“How do you feel?” She asked, having to crane her neck ever so slightly.

“I’m fine, I’d like to go. I’m a bit tired,” he lied.

“I don’t see why not, let me check with the desk,” Twilight said, turning around and trotting up to the front. She conversed with the receptionist for a few minutes before coming back over. “All set, let’s go.”

Together they walked out of the hospital and down the path. Frederick looked over Ponyville and saw hundreds of ponies all going about their business, having somewhere to be, someone to be with; he looked away. He turned and saw a large castle on the side of a mountain, “What’s that?” He asked, pointing to the castle.

“Oh, that’s Canterlot, its lovely. I think you’d enjoy it there,” Twilight replied, smiling gently up at him.

Frederick turned back to Ponyville. He couldn’t decide which one he liked less at the moment, the town or her smile. Slowing down, he stopped. Twilight turned around and asked, “Are you o-?”

“I’m sorry.”

“I... No, it was our fault. We should have been more...” Twilight pauses for a second, thinking of the right words, “you were right to call us jerks. We didn’t think about what happened to you.” She walked up to him and placed a hoof on his knee, she looks up pleadingly, “We’ll be here for you, if you want it.”

Frederick didn’t expect this, “I don’t know Twilight, I have a lot to think about,” he replied looking away.

“Of course, I would be worried if you didn’t. Let’s carry on shall we?”

“Yes.”

Chapter 4

Frederick walked alongside Twilight as they made it to Ponyville proper. It was early in the morning and it seemed like it would be a cold day. Frederick tightened his sheet around him and moved closer to Twilight.

Twilight turned back to Frederick and mumbled, “Maybe I should take him to Rarities first?” She turned back and grinned with the prospect of being able to show someone not of this world all of the knowledge kept in her library. “Ah, here we are.”

The two walked up to the library and Twilight pushed the door open with her magic.

“You live in a library?” Frederick asked, looking about.

“Something wrong with that?”

“Oh no, nothing at all. In fact, it looks quite cosy in here.”

Twilight smiled, it wasn’t everyday somepony calls her library "cosy", or anything really. “Well, it’s nice you think that. Let me show you to your room.”

She trotted up some stairs and around the banister, opening one of the doors. Inside, she clicked the light and moved aside so Frederick could enter.

He looked around, “It’s small...”

“Yeah, sorry. We don’t have the need for ponies to sleep here. It was a storage closet beforehand...” Twilight replied, looking up with an apologetic expression.

“I’m fine with it. Somewhere to sleep, I suppose.” Frederick walked in and sat on the bed. Bouncing a few times, he was genuinely surprised at how comfortable it was.

“We’ll have to go and see Rarity, she’s been dying to make you something to wear,” Twilight laughed and walked out of Frederick’s room, leaving him frowning at the thought of being fitted. “Come on!” Twilight shouted from below.

Frederick got up and readjusted his sheet, then walked down stairs and out of the library. They walked down the main road with every pony’s eyes staring daggers into Frederick’s soul. “Can we hurry up, everyone is looking at me weird.”

“They just take some time to get used to you, they acted like this when Zecora came to town.” Twilight explained, not making Frederick feel any less uncomfortable.

Frederick didn’t know who this "Zecora" was, but he hoped that she was welcome now. “Nevertheless, can we hurry up?”

Twilight rolled her eyes, “Fine, Rarity will be pleased we made it so early anyway.”

Picking up the pace, they made it to Rarities in record time and Twilight knocked on the door. After a few minutes, a rather flustered Rarity answered the door, “Yes, what is,” she snapped, before stopping to gather her composure, “Twilight, how are you, and our guest, how delightful. Please, come in!”

Twilight and Frederick followed Rarity into the main area and waited for her to finish whatever she was working on in the other room. Frederick looked the place over and raised an eyebrow at how organised the room was.

“Is everything of hers so tidy?”

“Oh yes, very much so. She simply cannot, not clean.” Twilight replied, in a fake preach accent.

Frederick let out a half-hearted chuckle, “What’s taking her?”

“Patience, please...” Twi scolded, giving Frederick a harsh look, “she’s doing this out of her own money and generosity, the least you could do is be thankful.”

“Sure.”

Twi and Frederick stopped talking as soon as they heard hoof steps approach from behind, “Alright dear, please step inside and onto the small podium I’ve set up.” Rarity waved them in and together they walked through the arch and into the proper shop.

Displays were lined up along the walls, no doubt to wow and impress whoever came in; this time though, it didn’t particularly work as Frederick wasn’t much for fashion, at least he wasn’t after that incident in the noble district.

Shivering at the memory, he stepped up and shook his head. The girls stood there looking up at him before coughing slightly. “What’s wrong?” He asked.

“You will have to take the sheet off for a proper measurement...” Rarity replied, with slightly rosy cheeks.

“Y-yeah...” Twilight added, meekly from behind.

Frederick rolled his eyes and unstrapped the sheet from his body, letting it hit the ground with a soft -poof-

The girl’s eyes widened, then looked to each other. Frederick could swear he saw Rarity mouth "wow", or something along those lines; if he did, he didn’t let them catch on.

“How long is this going to take?” He asked, getting annoyed at having to stand on a podium, in front of two ponies, naked.

“Not long dear, now stand still and please try not to wiggle...” Rarity asked, barely suppressing a grin as she neared Frederick with the measuring tape; a glint in her eye.
___

“See, it didn’t take too long.” Twilight said, walking besides Frederick down the path towards Sugarcube corner. It was nearing midday and the two of them were becoming a slight peckish.

“When you said she’s doing out of generosity, I didn’t think she’d do that...”

“I guess it was a bit much, but that’s Rarity for you; she always puts in 100 per cent, no matter what.” Twilight replied, laughing.

“What are we doing outside this gingerbread house?” Frederick asked, looking it over. It looked like the whole thing was baked, rather than built and anyone living in it would have to be crazy. “It’s not another friend is it?!”

Twilight looked up fast with mock hurt, “What do you mean, another friend? Can’t you handle them?”

“Oh, I can handle them. But only when they are not trying to stick things in me... or shouting at me.” Frederick calmed himself, he was getting working up over Rainbow Dash.

“She said she was sorry...” Twi consoled him, “let’s go in and eat, it’s getting cold now. My treat?”

“If you insist.”

The two walked into Sugarcube corner and sat down at one of the many tables seated around the restaurant. Frederick looked around, but wherever his eyes landed, there seemed to be a pony looking at him weirdly, or glaring.

“Don’t worry about them,” Twilight whispered, “they will get used to you. Ponyville is a small community, gossip spreads faster than cutie pox...”

“Cutie pox?”

“I’ll tell you about it later. Oh here’s Pinkie.”

Pinkie Pie hopped over to their table, her big poufy hair flying every which way, but she didn’t really seem to mind, “what can I get for you two?” She asked, with a magic grin that threatened to give one to Frederick.

Twilight looked over the menu for a few seconds, “Can I get the hay fries and shake please.”

“Okey-dokie-lokie, for you Frederick?” She turned to face the human.

He looked down and read some of the menu, “I... uh... what do you recommend?” He asked, dumbfounded at the amount of pony foods.

“Well, I’d recommend the spaghetti. I know that Twilight isn’t a big fan of it, but maybe you would enjoy it...” Pinkie replied, “Do you have spaghetti on your world?”

Frederick looked down for a second, before looking up into Pinkies eyes, “Yeah, we do. It’s good.” He explained, wearing an almost fake smile.

“Oh goodie, I’ll be right back with your two orders, don’t go anywhere~” Pinkie called out, as she walked out of the room, keeping her eyes on Twilight for a split second longer than usual; though no one noticed.

“So, what’s up with her?” Frederick asked, getting comfortable on his seat, which was starting of wear on him.

“What do you mean?” Twilight replied, levitating a pillow over from an empty chair and passing it to him.

“Thank you.” Frederick took another look around to see that most of the patrons have either left or have turned their attention to their own food, “and you know what I mean.”

Twilight sighed and rubbed some hair out of her face, “I think I do. Don’t get me wrong, I love all my friends, but something about Pinkie Pie is different... I can’t explain it and it just drives me crazy sometimes.”

“I see. I get that sometimes when I work on a project... sometime we could look into it sometime, if you’re interested?”

Twilight looked up to the human, eyes sparkling with interest, “Oh yes, I’d love to; if you’re sure, of course.” She shouted out enthusiastically, unaware of the other guests looking at them.

“Uh, Twilight... you may want to settle down. People are looking...”

“Oh, sorry,” she responded, settling back in her seat with a sheepish smile.

Pinkie walked out of the divider and into the restaurant area, on her back rested two plates, one of hay fries and one full of pasta and sauce. “Here we go!” She said, bucking the plates into the air and onto the table with pinpoint precision.

Frederick watched as Pinkie grinned and turned away, shaking her head back and forth to some music only she could hear.

Shaking his head, Frederick turned away and looked towards Twilight, who was currently pre-occupied with pulling apart some fries that were stubbornly refusing to yield their tasty goodness. She grunted with exertion and the fry snapped; sending a piece over onto another table, surprising an elderly couple more than it should have.

Twilight’s face collared red and she turned away, hoping that they wouldn’t know it was her; unfortunately, they did and started to walk over. “I take it this is yours?” The elderly gentle colt asked, a bit miffed off.

“Actually, that’s mine.” Frederick replied, confusing Twilight for a second, “I’m terribly dreadful with these, they can never sit right in my hands...”

The gentle colt looked Frederick over with a scrutinizing look, “I must say, don’t make a habit of it.”

“Of course, sir.”

After the pony had walked away and sat down, shaking his head at the uncouth behaviour, Frederick turned to Twilight, “Shall we start?” He asked. Twilight nodded with a smile and dug in.

After they had finished their meal and paid, Twilight led Frederick outside and towards the edge of the Everfree; towards Fluttershy house. “Ok Frederick, keep calm and don’t make any sudden movements.”

“Why?”

“Well, her name gives it away; Fluttershy. She’s not exactly the most outgoing pony.” Twilight replied, rolling her eyes, “Either way, she’s the kindest pony I know.”

“Not that I don’t enjoy being cold, not wearing any clothes, etcetera. I don’t see the point of meeting your friends.” Frederick admitted, “They are your friends for a reason, they like you, they don’t even know me.”

“But they will if you let them, please. It’ll be hard enough to live here, you will need some friends, even if we are not human.”

Frederick stopped to think about this for a few seconds. On one hand she was right, he would need support, but on the other hand, he’s the only one here and nothing can change that. He nodded, “Alright, I can try. I won’t promise anything... I have something’s I need to do before I can let you all in.”

Twilight’s frown turned around and soon she had a grin on her face, “I knew you would, but don’t worry. We’ll all be here for you, no matter what you need.” She place a hoof on his knee, recoiling at how cold he seemed, “Are you alright, you are freezing.”

“I feel fine. Am I really that cold?” Frederick asked, reaching down and feeling where Twilight touched. It didn’t seem any colder than usual; sure it was a bit nippy, but nothing quite as bad as she said.

“We can hurry to Fluttershy, she’ll have some tea that we can drink to warm you up.”

The two walked up to the front door of Fluttershy cottage and Twilight knocked with her magic. They waited a few seconds; no response. Twilight tried tapping again, but was stopped by Frederick who pointed towards the nearby window.

Twilight looked over and before she knew it, the curtain closed itself; a pink tail waving past the glass. “Fluttershy, please. I... we know you’re in there. Frederick wants to talk!”

A few minutes passed by with the duo losing hope that the shy Pegasus would face her fears and open the door. But thankfully, she came to her senses and the front door inched open at a frustrating pace.

“Twilight...” Fluttershy whispered, before looking up at Frederick, which at that exact time was framed by the sun, casting an ominous shadow around him, “Eep!” She squealed, throwing her legs over her face.

Twilight huffed and levitated the quivering bundle of nerves into her own house, placing her on the couch. Frederick walked in, scraped the bottom of his feet to the best of his ability and sat down next to Fluttershy. He sat down softly, so not to alert the Pegasus as much as needed.

Slowly, Fluttershy took her legs away to find that Twilight was making some tea in the kitchen; Fluttershy was alone in the living room with Frederick and this terrified her. What if he became angry again, or hurt her... oh the many things he could do.

“Fluttershy?” Frederick whispered, causing the poor Pegasus pony to freeze. He shook his hair out of his face, pulling it back behind his ears. “I guess you’re a little scared of me at the moment. But I want to say, I’m not dangerous, really.” He chuckled, “I had a bad episode in the hospital, but I hope in time, I can come to accept it.” He looked over to Fluttershy to see her staring at him, “Please, can we start over?” He placed his hand out, palm up and waited.

Fluttershy looked between his face and hand, expecting some sort of anger at her taking too long to respond, but nothing seemed to materialise; if there was anything, she knew it was just her imagination. All Fluttershy saw was guilt and regret, and this made her hurt. “Of course, I would like that,” She replied, grasping Frederick’s hand with her own hoof tightly.

Twilight walked out of the room with a tray of cups levitated in her magic. Slowly, she moved them over to the table, but accidentally knocked a small vase from the side.

Frederick quickly reached out on his magic and plucked it from the air, slowing its descent and laying it back on the table, much to the amazement of the ponies staring at him.

“Oh my...” Fluttershy muttered first, “Luna didn’t say you could do magic.” She was starting to come out of her shell at this latest revelation.

“No she didn’t...” Twilight whispered, “What else can you do, Frederick?” She asked, a familiar glint in her eye; the same as the one Rarity had.

“Uh, not much, just levitation. I didn’t really look into my powers that often, they feel weird and numb half of the time.” He explained, much to the disappointment of Twilight. Then In a split second, her demeanour flipped.

“Do you know what this means!?”

“No, should I?”

“You can teach me and I can teach you!” She shouted out while jumping about the room.

Frederick groaned and laid back on the couch, “Why couldn’t I have stayed in...”

Chapter 5

Frederick awoke from sleep, his head feeling awkward and sweaty. Coughing, he raised himself up from the damp bed and inched his way out of the room.

He had been shown where all of the rooms were the night before and told to make himself at home. Although a bit reluctant, Frederick quickly took to living in the same house as someone else.

He opened the door and walked out. Unfortunately, he didn’t have any clothes as Rarity was still designing them; he would have to pick them up later.

“Where is the bathroom...?” He muttered, moving slowly through the darkened library, taking special care not to wake Twilight, or spike, whom he met after his day out.

The little dragon had taken an instant liking to him, for some reason. Frederick surmised that it had something to do with both of them being men, but couldn’t be one hundred percent sure.

“Argh,” Frederick shouted out, quickly muffling his pain with a hand as he hit his big toe on the corner of a wall. He stood deathly still as he heard soft hoof-falls echoing through the level.

“Hello, Frederick?” Twilight’s shouted as she walked around the corner, coming face to chest with the human, “Oh my...” she stammered, blushing as she noticed he wasn’t wearing anything.

“Heh, yeah. Sorry about -.”

“No big deal, it happens,” Twilight interrupted, “I guess you lived alone before?”

“Yeah...” Frederick started with, but soon got self-conscious as he noticed that Twilight kept looking away, or down, “I think it’s best if we forget this happened, don’t you?”

Twilight could only help but nod shyly.

“Good. I’ll see you in the morning, good night Miss Sparkle.” Frederick walked around Twilight and towards the bathroom. He opened the door, closing it fast once he was inside and leaned back against it.

Sighing, he made his way over to the sink and ran the water, filling the bowl. Taking a scoop of water in his hands, he cleaned the sweat off his face; making him feel infinitely better. “That could have gone better...” he lamented, shaking his damp face with a small chuckle.

Frederick took down a mental note to go round to Rarities for the clothes; even if they weren’t finished, anything would be better than having that happen again.

Taking a towel, he wiped his face and arms to dry off and decided against going out in the nude again; which he slapped himself for doing in the first place and slipped on a towel around his waist.

Feeling secure in the knowledge that no one would be able to ogle him; although he’d never admit it, Frederick opened the door and made it back to his room. He picked up his damp covers and neatly folded them up and placed them on a chair next to the door. Laying down, he quickly drifted back off to sleep.

___

“F-Frederick, are you clothed?” Twilight shouted through the door. Receiving no reply, she assumed he was still asleep and pushed the door open; albeit very slowly.

She saw no pony in bed, raising her eyebrow, she looked over to the chair to find the beds covers neatly folded up.

Taking the initiative, she walked inside the room to find that the window was slightly ajar, making the room feel colder than it should have been.

“I wonder where he went...” she asked herself as she turned around.

“Right here Miss Sparkle.” Frederick spoke, making Twilight jump with a cute "Eep". “My apologies,” he finished as Frederick helped Twilight gather herself.

Twilight looked him over and after gathering her breath back, whistled, “I take it you went over to Rarities?”

Frederick was wearing a slim fitting two piece grey suit, on his feet were two finely polished black shoes. “Yes, I did. She is amazing, it would take hundreds of gold to purchase something of this quality back home.”

“I’m glad you like it, you clean up nice.” Twilight replied with a smirk.

“I try and look nice for my host.” Frederick joked, “But anyway, what are we doing today?”

Trotting out of the room, Twilight motioned for Frederick to follow, “I was thinking of letting you see the princesses again. They seemed to like you before, maybe they can help.”

“Well, I do have some questions for them.”

“Alright, Spike!” Twilight called out. A couple of seconds later, a groggy Spike came waddling down the stairs, his tail slapping on each step.

“What’s the matter, it’s too early.” he groaned. Looking over to Frederick, he perked up, “Looking smooth, nice suit.”

Twilight rolled her eyes, “It’s nearly two o’clock Spike.”

“Still too early...”

“Oh well, can you send this, please?” Twilight asked, levitating a premade scroll over to him. He nodded and blasted the paper into ash, which quickly exited the building.

Frederick whistled, “I’m impressed, only high military have those kinds if Runes back home...”

“Well, I am the Princesses most faithful student.” Twilight announced, “I mean, I need to keep in touch with her...” she said.

Suddenly, Spike belched and a small plumb of fire burst out of his mouth, materialising in a small scroll. “Pooh, that was quick.” Twilight said, jumping over and grabbing it out of the air.

Frederick walked over to a chair and sat down, waiting for her to finish reading.

“It says the Princess will be on her way shortly. What does that mean?”

A short sharp knock from the front door answered that question immediately, “I’ll get it,” announced Frederick, getting up from his chair. He walked over and opened the door. Standing there, regal as ever was Princess Celestia, her multicolour hair waving in a slight breeze.

“Good afternoon Frederick, you look very nice,” she said, looking past him, “I got your letter, Twilight.”

“I see that Princess.” Twilight replied, before dropping on the floor in a bow.

“Please, come on in.” Frederick offered, moving out of the way for the Princess.

“Thank you.” Celestia walked past, looking Frederick over. She walked over to Twilight and picked her up, hugging her; she smiled once Twilight started to hug back.

Placing Twilight down, she turned to Spike, “How are you today Spike?”

“I am okay, Princess. If there anything you would like?”

“I’m good, thank you. I ate before I got here.” Celestia moved over to one of the seats and sat down, taking care not to damage the furniture that was designed for somepony... smaller in mind. “Twilight says you have some questions?” She asked, looking towards Frederick.

“Uh, yes. My machine, did you manage to recover anything at all from the wreck?” He asked, hoping that he wouldn’t have to work from the beginning.

“We did recover some pieces, it was hard to uncover their purpose though, as you can see, we don’t use many of the same materials.”

Frederick nodded, “Well, what did they look like?”

“One piece was a slight brownish colour, the other seemed to resemble some of our crystals that are buried underneath Canterlot. Twilight would know about them.”

“Ok... so not all of the Unox was used up... that’s good. The brownish part, uh, I’ll need to see that, I don’t remember making any part that fits that description, but I forget sometimes.” Frederick mumbled some numbers as he wandered around the room.

The other members of the conversation looked on in mild concern before he sprang back, “Celestia, is it at all possible to get some samples of those crystals?”

“I suppose it would be, but I don’t see why.” She asked, confused and slightly intimidated by the sudden turn in his personality.

“For science of course! If I can get a Rune station set up, then I can create stuff... I don’t need to be burden, and then maybe I can get home sooner than I thought.”

Frederick looked over to Twilight who wore an unreadable expression on her face, “With proper testing, of course.” He finished with a sheepish smile.

“That’s all well and good, but we still don’t know how your Runes will affect Equestria. I will allow you to research at your own pace, but I will have to restrict you to no weapons, or anything that can hurt my ponies.”

“I can accept that, I was never one for violence, except...”

“Don’t worry about that.” Celestia interrupted, “One more thing though, I will be assigning a member of my research division to help you here. Her name is Smart Glass and she’s very proficient at what she does,” Celestia smiled.

“What’s her specialty?” Frederick asked, confused.

“She’s been working on how magic interacts with crystals on the subatomic level. She will be of immense help.”

“I don’t doubt it.”

“You will need somewhere to work for the time being,” Celestia placed a hoof under her chin, then looked at Twilight, “are you using your basement for anything at the moment?”

Twilight thought for a moment, “Not for anything important, just storage,” she then perked up, “Frederick’s working here!” She got up and jumped around, shouting "Yesyesyes.”

Frederick and Celestia watched on in amusement as Twilight calmed herself down and plopped on the floor. Celestia walked over and whispered in her ear with a grin, “Guess who else will be helping him?”

Twilight’s eyes flew open and she hugged the Princess, “Thank you! I have so many ideas... but what if they don’t work with your magic...”

She continued to mumble incoherently for a few more minutes as Celestia and Frederick walked to the door, “Thank you Princess. To be honest, I didn’t expect you to agree so fast, especially with such lenient conditions.”

“Don’t misjudge me Frederick; I may have agreed, but don’t think I won’t do whatever it takes to protect my ponies.” Celestia replied, looking deep into his eyes; it made him tense up.

“I understand.”

“Good, Smart Glass will be here tomorrow evening. Your equipment will arrive shortly before. I expect you to be ready for her.”

“Yes ma’am.”

Celestia nodded and turned to Twilight. She smiled and opened the door. Walking out, she unfurled her wings and took off into the sky, disappearing.

Frederick sighed and rubbed his face, whatever he had saw in her eyes had affected him. He knew she would do anything to save them and that included hurting him. He was determined to not let her down now.

“Miss Twilight, are you alright?” Frederick asked, poking her on the shoulder.

Twilight shook her head, apparently nudged out of the state she was in, “Heh, sorry. I get a bit crazy sometimes.”

“No big deal, happens to everyone.” Frederick walked over to the kitchen and shouted, “Would you like a cup of tea, before we head out?”

“Head out, where to?” Twilight asked, walking into the kitchen, “and yes please.”

“I was thinking that you could take me to find your friend, Rainbow, was it?” he answered, placing two teabags into two cups, “If that’s ok? I feel we got off on the wrong foot and would like to talk to her.”

“That’s sweet, but I don’t think that’s the best idea at the moment.”

“Why?”

“Well, as you’ve seen, Rainbow is... brash, to say the least. I think it would be best to let her simmer down for a few days.”

“If you think so, you know her best.” Frederick accepted, passing Twilight’s cup of tea over to her, “What shall we do then?”

“We can clean out the basement, the princess did say you would have to be ready.”

“Wait, you heard that?”

“I have good hearing.” Twilight replied with a grin.

“Fine, but let’s finish these first.”

The two of them sat there drinking their tea in comfortable silence. Before long, they had finished their tea and cleaned the cups. They made their way down into the basement, Twilight used her magic to light some candles around the room, blasting the boxes and machines with light, casting hard shadows along the bare walls.

“Wow, you weren’t kidding when you said storage.” Frederick said, with raised eyebrows.

“No, I wasn’t. It’s become a bit of an issue of late, having to move everything from storage down here.”

“Well, let’s see if we can’t sort this out.” Frederick slapped his hands together, making Twilight jump slightly as she wasn’t expecting it. He made his way over to a small shelf and started to take the top of his suit off.

Twilight turned around to see what he was doing and frowned, “you can’t help but take your clothes off, can you?”

“What, oh this. I don’t want to rip the stitching and I’m bound to get sweaty.” He replied, folding his clothes up neatly in a dust free area.

“I’m sure...” Twilight huffed; she hoped this wouldn’t become a regular thing.

“Shall we?” Frederick said, picking up a box from in front of himself and moving it to an unused corner. “What are in these anyway?” He asked, placing it down.

“Oh you know, research papers, documents and data.” Twilight replied off-handily.

“Okay. We should mark them then, just so we know what each box contains.”

“Ooh, good thinking.” Twilight levitated two pencils down and passed one to Frederick. Together they went about checking each box and labelling them with their content.

After they had labelled the boxes, which took a few hours; they were ready to move them about. By this time, Frederick was getting thirsty, and decided he needed some water.

“I’m going to get some water, if that’s ok?” He asked Twilight, who was looking through one of the boxes near the back of the basement.

“Hmm, oh yeah, sure.”

Shrugging, he got up and walked up the stairs into the library. He opened the door to see Applejack standing there looking for a book.

“Hi there Miss Applejack, how are you?” Frederick asked, causing Applejack to jump and knock some books off the shelf.

He quickly caught them in his magic and laid them down gently, “I’m sorry about that.”

Applejack turned around and went wide eyed, “Wow, what you have been up to, wrestling?”

“What’s wresting?” Frederick asked, confused.

“Never mind, where’s Twilight?” Applejack asked.

“We’ve been downstairs, cleaning up her basement. I’m supposed to be working here now and the Princess wants it tidy.”

“I see, good on you to do some hard work, though you don’t seem like you need it.”

“Uh, thanks; I guess.” Frederick replied, “I’ll just get Miss Twilight for you.”

Frederick turned and made his way downstairs again. He stood by the stairs and shouted, “Miss Twilight, your friend Applejack is here to see you!”

“Oh, tell her I’ll be right up!” she shouted back.

Frederick walked back up the stairs, “She’ll be right with you. If you’d excuse me, I need some water.”

He walked past Applejack and into the kitchen, he poured himself a nice cold glass of water and downed it. He made his way out and saw Twilight talking with Applejack about something, but didn’t really take interest; instead he went downstairs and started on moving the boxes.

It took a few more hours, but sure enough, he had moved a fair chunk out of the way; enough for a fairly sized Rune crafting table and examination bench.

The crafting table would allow him to create new runes from various materials, plus research how they interacted with the new elements on this world. The bench would allow him to keep tabs on what he had already done, plus any current projects that Twilight might want to try; with supervision, of course.

He looked about and sighed, he had done a lot of work, but there was still more to do. One of the main things we could need would be a forge and smelter. Having Runes and Unox is all well and good, but he wouldn’t be able to get back home without precision tools and if that meant he would have to painstakingly make them, he would do so.

Chapter 6

Frederick walked out of the basement and wiped the sweat off his brow, it took a few hours, but finally finished moving everything around. He was a little annoyed at the fact that Miss Twilight didn’t really help out much, but couldn’t fault her; her friend did come round to see her.

He made his way across the landing and up the stairs and towards the bathroom. As he neared the door, he could hear the hiss of the shower and some quite poor singing from the other side. Deciding it wasn’t best to interrupt Twilight, Frederick went back to his room to find that the sheets had been cleaned and dried.

He replaced them back on the bed and took his trousers off, placing them on the chair neatly. Laying down, he closed his eyes and started to relax; he could take a shower later, he was getting comfortable.
___

Frederick opened his eyes and noticed something was immediately different. He couldn’t hear the quiet hiss of the shower, nor the birds tweeting outside his window.

He leaned up and found himself inside Luna’s chambers again; he sighed and got off the bed. He was wearing his suit, but this time it had been freshly pressed and cleaned, free of dirt.

“I see you’re finally awake.” Luna spoke, moving out of the shadows and into view.

“In a way, yes.” Frederick replied with a small chuckle, “What honour do I have to speak with you tonight, Princess”

“Oh please, no need for formalities. Just Luna is fine.”

“As you wish, Luna.” Frederick got off the bed and stood up. He walked over to the window and looked out across the landscape. “I take it your sister has spoken to you, about what I want to do?”

“She has, briefly.”

“And?”

“What do you mean, and?”

“Any reservations, no doubts?” He asked, “I’m guessing you didn’t bring me here to simply talk?”

“Actually, that’s exactly what I wanted to do.” Luna replied, “I don’t get a lot of time to simply, be.”

“Oh, we can chat if you’d like. I don’t know what interests we have, but I’m sure we can find something.” Frederick reassured, smiling.

Luna walked over to him and looked him over, “Do you mind if I take a human form again, it was quite interesting last time and I wish to study it some more.”

“By all means, this is your world.”

Luna’s horn glowed for a few seconds. After the glow had subsided, there stood a girl, much like before; she was dressed in a more conservative yellow dress that looked slightly out of place on her frame.

“Impressive.” Frederick said.

“Thank you, I’ve been practising in my spare time. The clothes always come out a bit weird though...”

“I’m sure you will get it eventually. What did you want to do?”

“I was thinking of showing you some of the castle, I’ve been here long enough to memorise most of it; though some will be fuzzy.” Luna replied, awaiting an answer.

“Sure, seems better than spending time sitting around.”

Luna grinned and skipped over to the door. She pulled it open to find a fuzzy grey border where the hallway should have been, “oops, forgot to specify where we were going.” She closed her eyes and opened the doors again, this time there stood an open garden.

Frederick walked over and out onto the gravel, the hard sound not unwelcome from the muffled carpets of the chambers. He looked about at the dreamscape, marvelled by how detailed everything was; the trees actually looked like trees, there were small animals running around and the sound of nature could be heard all around.

“Do you like it?” Luna asked, looking hopeful.

“Of course, this is amazing.” Frederick replied honestly.

Luna basically squeed and hugged his arm, “I knew somepony would, no pony takes the time to admire the things I do anymore.”

“What kind of things?” Frederick asked, moving over to a bench and sitting down, Luna joined him.

She looked up, “You know the stars?” Frederick nodded. “I create them, every night and move the moon.” She said proudly, then deflated, “but no pony cares about the stars when they are sleeping.”

“Hey, I’m sure there are lots of ponies that love your stars. I know that Miss Twilight likes star gazing.”

“How do you know that?”

“She has books scattered everywhere.” He chuckled.

“That’s just one pony, a friend, but still just one...” Luna placed her hands over her face, attempting to hide her inevitable tears.

“Hey, come on.” Frederick cooed, “Want to know something, back on my world, there’s entire colleges dedicated to looking at the stars, they catalogue and study them.”

“Really?” Luna asked, taking her hands away.

“Yeah, if they were here... they would probably worship you or something.” Frederick laughed and shook his head at the absurdity of it.

“Thank you.” Luna whispered and she grabbed a hold of Fredericks arm.

“Whatever for?”

“For making me feel better.”

“Anytime.” He grinned, “Anyway, let’s talk about something else.”

“Heh, let’s.” Luna stood up and wiped her eyes, “tell me about your world, from what I saw last time, it was strange.”

Fredrick sighed, “Well, you know about me and some of the magic... what you want to know about it?”

“My sister said you are researching Runes? What are they?”

“Ah, nice of you to ask about a complicated subject.” He frowned, “well, Runes are... the instruction set of my world’s magic, basic magic that is.” Frederick put his hand in his pocket and pulled out a piece of cloth. “Looks like a normal piece of fabric, right?”

Luna nodded.

“Now, if I do this,” he ran his hand over one side and made a stitching of a half circle, half diamond appear on it, “that’s the Rune for harden.”

“Ooh, why is it in silver?”

“Silver is the primary element for magic. It flows best through silver or blood, but blood is messy...”

“Ah, ok. So, is it hardened yet?”

“Not yet, I have to add a power source, like this.” He waved his hand around and materialised a small strip of Unox along the bottom on the fabric. Immediately it started to glow and harden before their eyes.

“Wow, I haven’t seen anything like this before.” Luna grinned, “This could open up whole new possibilities, if you’d teach us!”

“I’m not sure, Celestia made it pretty obvious she didn’t want anyone hurt...”

“She wouldn’t have to know, would she?” Luna replied in a sultry tone, “I won’t tell her if you don’t.”

“Luna please,” Frederick said, stepping back, “I’ll think about it. Can you take me back now?”

“Oh fine, you’re no fun...” Luna clicked her fingers.

___

This time, the glow dissipated and Frederick opened his eyes to see the familiar view of his bedroom roof. Sighing, he got out of bed and made a guess of the time; somewhere around two o’clock.

Putting his trousers on, he made his way out of his room and wandered over to the bathroom, thankful that he didn’t hear running water this time and stepped inside.

Sliding his trousers off, he turned the shower on and took a look in the mirror. “I need a shave, and a haircut...” he muttered before checking the temperature of the water.

Deciding the temperature was alright for a shower, he stepped inside and sighed as he felt the warmth run down his back.

After a good while cleaning himself up, Frederick turned the water off and stepped out of the shower. He picked up a towel and dried himself up.

“Ah, much better.” He said, placing his trousers back on. He stepped outside and back into his room, where he clothed himself.

After he was looking presentable, Frederick walked downstairs to find something to eat. Rummaging through some cupboards, he found some chocolate cereal and made a bowl.

“I wonder where Twilight is...” Frederick asked himself as he looked around the library. “Oh well, I guess I can go look for Rainbow now.”

After eating his cereal, he washed the bowl up and stepped outside into Ponyville, making sure to turn the library open sign to close.

Frederick spent some time simply wandering around town, taking in the sights and sounds; it had been a long time since he’d had the chance to simply enjoy himself and he guessed the strain was taking its toll.

He wandered through the market place, true to Twilight’s words, a lot less ponies were staring; even the ones that were, weren’t blatantly anymore.

Making his way through a crowd of ponies, he saw Applejack standing by her stall, selling apples. Frederick walked over, “Hi Miss Applejack, how are you?”

“Oh Frederick, I’m alright. Bit quiet today, but that’s to be expected at this time.” She looked around for any business, before turning back, “what brings you out today, I’d think Twilight would want to watch you?”

“Strange thing, I couldn’t find her this morning. I’m just out to see if I can apologise to Miss Rainbow, have you seen her?”

“Yup, I have. She’s right over there.” Applejack pointed over to one of the fields behind Frederick, “she’s probably snoozing on a cloud.”

“Thanks. If you see Miss Twilight, can you tell her?”

“I will.”

Frederick turned and walked away, heading towards to field that Applejack specified. He stood at the border and looked over the many clouds that were hanging low in the sky. Most were normal, or at least as normal as they got here in Equestria; one in particular had a multi-coloured tail hanging off one edge though.

Frederick walked over and shouted, “Miss Rainbow!”

“Urgh, who is it?” Rainbow’s muffle voice replied, “Don’t you know what time it is?”

“Yes, it’s around two. Can we talk?” Frederick asked, patiently waiting.

“Fine,” she said, flapping her wings and gliding down quite ungracefully, “what do you want?”

“I have come to apologise. For real this time.”

This caught Rainbow off guard, “Why?” She asked, “The Princess made us apologise already.”

“I know, but that wasn’t a true apology. If there’s anything I can do to make it up to you, please tell me. I feel you didn’t deserve it after sticking up for Miss Twilight.”

“I-its fine... nothing I can’t take.” She replied, looking away, “anyway, from the looks of it, you saved her life, so we owe you.”

“Even so, I still shouldn’t have lashed out.” Frederick leant into a bow, “Please, accept my apology.”

“Alright, geese. If it means so much to you, apology accepted.” She walked over to him and held out a wing, which he took gently and shook.

“Well now that’s all sorted, how about we get some grub, and I’m getting hungry.” Rainbow asked.

“I don’t have any money, remember... got here a few days ago.” Frederick reminded her.

“Oh yeah, Heh. You owe me then.” She replied with a grin.

With a frown, Frederick followed Rainbow towards town, and over to Sugarcube corner.

___

The two of them entered the building and sat down in one of the booths next to a window. Frederick watched as the ponies walked past, oblivious to his presence; he felt a strange calmness at being ignored, after so long at having to hide that he was a mage, he didn’t need to lie to anyone.

“So, what do you want?” Rainbow asked, nudging Frederick out of his mood.

“Huh, oh... you choose, I had something earlier.” He replied.

“You, what’s up?” Rainbow folded up the menu and placed it down, “don’t keep me guessing.”

“I guess I’m a bit homesick. Almost nothing is the same here, sure things look the same, but they’re not...”

“I see.” Rainbow didn’t.

“I was just experimenting, like usual... then boom, I’m here, in some weird place.”

“What do you mean weird?” Rainbow growled.

“Compared to my own world. You’re ponies, who live in houses and have books and Princesses...”

“Yeah, so?”

“That’s my point, ponies don’t do that on my world. It’s all backwards to me; I guess I’m still getting used to it.” He admitted, feeling slightly sick at being reminded that he can’t simply wake up.

Rainbow sat there and digested this information for a few minutes. Just before the silence became uncomfortable, she spoke up, “we’ll do whatever we can to help you get home.” She patted him on the shoulder, “we owe you that much.”

“Thank you Miss Rainbow.”

“No more "Miss Rainbow", simply Dash is fine.”

“If you’re sure...”

“I am.” She grinned.

___

The two of then walked out of Sugarcube corner, one of them stuffed and the other feeling a little better about his situation.

“I’m not sure about you, but I should be getting back to weather duty, they might be missing my awesome skills.” Rainbow said, lifting off the ground, “I’ll see you around Frederick.”

“Bye, Dash.” Frederick replied as he watched her fly through several clouds that dissipated as she hit them.

Turning around, he started making his way through the town again and towards the library. After a few minutes of free wandering, he saw the lights of the library and picked up his pace.

Opening the door, he walked inside to see Twilight pacing back and forth in front of two large crates. She turned her head towards him with wide eyes and shouted, “Where have you been!?”

“Out.” He simply said, motioning to the door, “shouldn’t I have gone out?”

“Don’t take that tone, you know you should have been ready for these.”

Frederick raised his eyebrow and took a careful step forwards, being mindful to not agitate her, “I take it this is my equipment?”

“Yes, I’ve been waiting for you to get back before opening it. It’s been HORRIBLE!” She shouted again.

“Whoa there, I think it’s best if you took a deep breath and step back.” Frederick said, moving closer to the boxes.

“Why would I do that?” She asked quizzically, “this is science!”

“I know, but it’s science that nearly killed you last time; until I can be sure it won’t affect you again, I’m not letting you anywhere near it.” He said sternly.

Twilight pouted and looked away “Spoilsport...”

“Come now, there’ll be plenty to experiment with, I just don’t want anyone to get hurt. Not again.” He frowned. “Alright, move back. They didn’t label anything; does anyone label things in this country?” He mumbled.

Twilight chuckled, but moved back to a safe distance.

Frederick took a supplied crowbar and leveraged the top off one of the crates. It fell over with a smack and a large amount of dust made its way out. Waving it away with a cough, he saw that the crate was full of different colours of crystals, some of which looked almost like Unox and some which looked denser, almost dangerous.

“This one is full of the crystals,” he said to Twilight, “can you pass me a pencil?”

She levitated one over and Frederick labelled the side of the box. “Do we have any other small boxes?”

“I should have some around here, how many do you want?” Twilight asked.

“Half a dozen should do, I need to filter these out into type, length and various other measurements.” Frederick replied, making his way over to the other crate. Again he cracked open the lid to find his original surviving Unox stone sitting in the middle of the crate. It had a large crack down the side and looked to be fairly fragile in this state.

Around the edge of the crate sat numerous pieces of equipment; some of which Frederick could identify, like the power converter, some of the base and a chunk of the inner orb.

Mentally frustrated that they would limp everything together, but not totally surprised either, he began to move each piece away from each other.

He reached for the Unox stone but stopped as he felt his hand tingle as it neared it. Moving it closer he could feel the embedded pieces in his hand attract the stone, absorbing some of its power. It wasn’t a lot of power, but it was definitely noticeable to someone who didn’t train his magic.

Pulling his hand back, he quickly placed the lid back on and nailed it back in place. Shortly afterwards, Twilight returned with the boxes and placed them next to the open crate.

“How would you like them sorted?” She asked, oblivious to the strain that Frederick was going through.

“Uh, colour, length and density.” He replied, getting up and walking into the kitchen.

“Hey, what’s wrong?” Twilight asked, following him.

“Nothing, Miss Twilight. Just a bit of pain in my hand.” He replied, “Nothing to worry yourself with.” Frederick gripped his hand and focused himself, feeling the pain flow away, he sighed.

“Of course I’d worry, don’t think like that; let me see.” She demanded, gripping his hand in her magic.

Reluctantly, he gave up and let her see. She gasped and took a closer look. The Unox embedded in his hand was glowing slightly, outputting a slight amount of magic.

Twilight frowned, “when did this start?”

“Just now, I opened the other crate. It’s a good thing you weren’t there I guess...” he chuckled.

“This is no time to joke, Frederick.” She scolded him, “Do you want me to get the Princess?”

“No, I’ll be fine. I’m just not used to having so much magic in me. I don’t use it, remember.”

“Well, alright. As long as you’re sure.” She looked at his hand again, noticing the glow had gone down slightly, “I think we should wait until Smart Glass gets here before we do anything else.”

“As you wish. We can sort the crystals first though.” He said, getting up.

Twilight nodded and followed him back into the living room. They spent some time sorting each crystal into a proper box for each measurement, making sure to sort them properly.

A short while after they had finished, a short knock at the door signalled Smart Glass’s arrival. Twilight walked over to the door and opened it, revealing a light brown unicorn. Her mane was dark blond and she wore dainty spectacles.

“Twilight Sparkle I presume?” Smart spoke.

“Uh, yes. Welcome, please come in.”

“Thank you, I won’t stay long, I have a reservation I have to meet in a little while.”

Frederick stood up and walked over, “Hello Miss Glass, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” He held his hand out and waited.

“What is this?” Smart Glass asked Twilight with a confused look on her face.

“What do you mean, this is Frederick. Surely the Princess told you about him?” Twilight replied with a frown.

“She only said I’d be working with professionals, not apes.” She said, sticking her nose up at him.

Frederick pulled his hand back and stood straight up, “I’m sorry you feel that way. The princess said you were good, but if you feel like you don’t want to work with me, I understand; I’ll send a letter to the Princess saying you refuse.”

“Now now, no need for anything hasty. I know what I said, but that’s no need to tell the Princess.”

“Why not?” He replied, “You come in here and insult me, I think I’ll have much better luck with someone of higher standing.”

“Well, if that’s the way it is,” she huffed and made her way to the door, “I bid you good day.” She slammed the door closed.

Twilight stood there dumbfounded, “That could have went better...”

“Can you send a letter to Princess Luna?” Frederick asked.

Chapter 7

“Of course, but why Princess Luna?” Twilight asked, “Surely Princess Celestia would need to know about this?” Twilight moved towards Frederick and frowned.

“I spoke with Luna earlier, she pulled me into her dream.” He replied, sitting down on the couch, “she wanted to help me research Runes together.”

“Surely that’s a good thing, right?”

“I’m not sure, she seems more impulsive than her sister and I’m not sure that’s good.”

“I see what you mean... we can sleep on it and figure it out tomorrow. It’s getting pretty late.” Twilight suggested, “anyway, we need to make up with Smart Glass, I’m sure she was just tired from the trip.”

“I hope, but having you help will be more than enough to be honest.”

“Y-you mean that?” Twilight asked.

“Of course. You seem like a good scientist, quite methodical as well, I don’t see why you wouldn’t be enough.”

Twilights face lit up, “That’s kind of you to say, but I haven’t done anything like this before.”

Frederick walked over and knelt down next to her, “First time for everything, Miss Sparkle.”

“I guess so...” she replied, grinning. “Come on, let’s get some sleep.”

“Let’s.”

Frederick and Twilight headed upstairs; Twilight to her room and Frederick to his. He walked in and sat on the bed, placing his hand over his face.

He mentally chastised himself for acting like an ass in front of a guest and decided he would make up for it tomorrow. He would try and win Smart Glass over, but if it didn’t work, he would write to Luna and see if she was still interested in helping.

He took his clothes off and got into bed, hoping he wouldn’t wake up in Luna’s chambers again; he would have to work on his mental defences at some point.

___

Twilight walked into her room and jumped on her bed, “Yes, my first proper experiment...” she whispered, hoping that she wasn’t being too loud.

She lowered herself down and got into bed. She tried calming down, but her excitement wouldn’t let her. Huffing, she got out of bed and walked over to the balcony.

She opened the doors and stepped outside, taking a gaze at the stars above. She sighed and laid down on her blanket, which was left out from a few nights before.

Slowly, but surely, she drifted off to sleep, dreaming of the experiments that she would be able to do in the future with Frederick.

___

“Frederick, wake up,” Twilight whispered, “its morning.”

“Huh, what-” Frederick shouted as he opened his eyes to see two lavender ones surprisingly close to his, “Twilight, please.”

Her face went bright red and backed away, “I’m sorry, it’s just that I’m so excited at the prospect of learning a whole new type of magic!” She announced.

“That’s all well and good, but could you let me get dressed first?” He asked, looking down.

Twilight blushed again and ran out of the room, “Take your time!” she shouted.

Frederick sighed and slipped on his trousers and top. He knew he would be constructing stuff today, which meant he wouldn’t want to get too stuffy.

He got up and stuffed his feet into his shoes, taking care not to scuff them on the wooden floor. After that was done, he walked out of the room and down the stairs.

“Ah, Spike, where were you yesterday?” Frederick asked, seeing the dragon sitting at the table.

“Oh, hi Frederick. I was sleeping over at Rarities with Applebloom, Sweetie belle and Scootaloo.”

“I see,” Frederick replied, not knowing who those ponies were. “Have a good time?”

“It was so-so, they kept putting make-up on me.”

“I’m sure it was fun after all.”

“I guess...”

“Anyway, I have some errands to run, can you tell Miss Twilight I’ll be out until lunch.” Frederick asked, making his way to the door.

“Oh, one second!” Spike called out, “this came for you.” He ran into the kitchen and brought out a small bag.

“What is it?”

“Princess Luna thought you might need some spending money, don’t know what for.” He shrugged.

“Hmm, okay. Thanks.” Frederick replied, gripping the money. He made his way outside and down to the market.

A short walk later and he made it to the bustling centre of town. Although he stood a few feet taller than most ponies, he had a surprisingly hard time picking the vendors out.

Sighing he walked up to one nearby pony and asked, “Hi there, do you know where the metal smith is located?”

The pony in question looked up with a slight hint of fear, before calming herself down, “Y-yes, its right over there.” She pointed towards one of the larger shops over the road.

“Thank you, good day.” Frederick smiled at her before walking off.

He opened the door to the shop and whistled at the selection of wares all lined up on the walls. “How can I help you?” A voice asked from behind, knocking Frederick out of his gaze.

Turning around, he saw the pony in question to be a quite young, normal pony. His main was a dark blue colour with his coat a light blue. His cutie mark being a hammer and anvil.

“Ah yes, I’m looking for some specific equipment.”

“Well, you’ve come to the right place, we have almost everything you would need for forging.”

“Good, I was hoping for that...” Frederick replied, turning to inspect some tongs lined up along the wall, “I need three sets of these to start with.”

“Alright, can I ask why?” The pony said, moving behind the counter. He picked up a pad and a pencil, “it’s just that Ponyville isn’t the hub of metal-smithing...”

“Just a personal project I’m working on, nothing to worry about.”

“I see, anything else?”

Frederick looked about the store, his gaze lingering on one of the prebuilt forges in the corner, “Yes, that.” He pointed.

“That old thing?” The shopkeeper chuckled, “that’s been there for a good few years, and no pony has any need for it.”

“Well, I do.”

“Alright, I’m guessing you want it installed ASAP?”

“Preferably,” Frederick looked about for some more supplies, “I’ll need molding sand, plus a lot of metal; steel if you can, iron if you can’t.” He sighed, “plus I’ll need safety equipment, three... no, four pairs. Plus anything you would recommend.”

“Can I ask, how are you paying for this?” The shopkeeper asked, raising an eyebrow.

Frederick laid the sack of coins on the counter, “I’m not sure how much is here, but consider this a down payment. Think of it as a promise to pay.”

“Wow, Sure.” The pony whistled, “I’ll have your equipment ready in the next few hours. Where are you located?”

“I’m living with Miss Sparkle. In the library.”

“You want a forge in a Library?”

“No, that goes outside,” Frederick laughed, “I’m not crazy... at least I hope not...” he shrugged.

“Alright, if you’d excuse me. I’ll get everything ready.”

“Sure, I’ll see you later. Good doing business.” Frederick said, walking out of the shop.

Looking around, he saw Smart Glass sitting outside one of the cafe’s over the road. Deciding it would be a good time to patch things up, he made his way over.

“Hi Miss Glass,” he said. Moving in front of her table.

She looked up and scoffed, “What do you want?” She looked away at some distant object, “Have you come to humiliate me?”

“No ma’am. I’ve come to apologise.” Smart Glass turned her gaze to Frederick, “It was quite unprofessional to let my emotions rule me yesterday, I’m sorry.”

“Why... why are you saying that, I’m the one who insulted you...” She admitted, frowning as she gazed into her cup.

“Because, apparently you are one of the best specialists in crystals, and the Princess seems to trust you enough to let you help.” He said, “And... I’d like the help, even if you are kind of a jerk.”

Glass chuckled and shook her head, “Yeah I guess I was.” She pushed some hair out of her face, “I’m sorry I called you an Ape.”

“I’m not going to say it didn’t sting, but thank you.” Frederick pointed to a chair next to Glass, “may I?”

“Sure.”

“I have some news,” he said, sitting down. “It’s regarding the research. As well as you and Miss Twilight, I am thinking of letting Princess Luna help.”

“What!” Smart Glass shouted, annoying some of the other patrons, she looked around apologetically, “what do you mean!?”

“Well, not completely. She wants to learn about the Runes I can use and seeing as she’s taken it upon herself to help fund the research, I don’t see why she can’t help.

“But... Princess Celestia, what would she say?”

“What do you mean?” Frederick asked, suddenly confused, “are they not equals?”

“Well, yes but...”

“Then it should be fine, if anything, we can just send her a letter and talk to her about it.” He reasoned.

Glass sighed, she couldn’t see any way around it, “Fine, you win. But I want to know everything you plan on doing, crystal wise.”

“Sure, that seems reasonable, but Miss Twilight will be lead researcher with me. I owe her that.”

“Are you two...?”

“What?” Frederick asked.

“You know, together or something?” She asked, looking around.

“Uh, no... We are not. We aren’t even the same species.” He frowned. “Why?”

“Well, you live there. You’re making her lead and spend a lot of time together... one could assume.”

“Well, don’t. I’ve been here for less than a week.” He whispered, “I’m not a master at relationships, but it would seem strange. Plus, I got ripped from my own world, do you know how that feels like?”

“No...” Glass replied.

“Exactly, I’m in no position for anything like that. I just want to get home.”

“Alright...” It was clear she had touched a nerve, “Can you tell me more about what you plan to research into?” She asked, hoping to change the topic, fast.

Frederick sighed and rubbed his face, “Sure.” He got comfortable in his seat, “I need to recreate the experiment that brought me here, that means I need to create new parts for the machine.” Smart Glass perked up. “That’s where you come in; you know about crystals, my machine runs off a certain type, called Unox by my people.”

“Its passive energy output can power Runes that are etched, sown or imprinted onto a surface.” He continued, “For this to work, I need the highest quality grade crystals and to be sure, I might need to create them myself.”

“Creating crystals, that’s... not possible.” Glass interjected, “only dark magic can do that...”

“Normally yes, but Unox grows differently than most crystals, it can repair itself using magic; unfortunately, I’m not a fully-fledged mage, only a novice at best.”

“I guess I’ll have to see it in action.” Glass mumbled, before raising her voice, “It’s been a pleasure, but I must make it back to the inn. They are serving dinner soon.”

“Of course, I suppose I should get back as well,” Frederick held out a hand.

Glass looked for a second before realising and shaking it. “I shall be round tomorrow to start research, good day.”

“Bye,” Frederick replied as he watched Glass wander off down the street. He looked up into the sky and wondered what his family’s doing right about now; there was no body to be found, meaning no burial.

He doubted they had moved on by now, but at the same time he knew they wouldn’t grieve too hard; they knew his hobbies were dangerous.

Still, Frederick couldn’t help but feel partly depressed about his whole situation, which made him think back to Glass’s comment, "You know, together or something?"

The thought made his stomach turn, not in a bad way, but with apprehension; what if he couldn’t make it back, what if he had to stay here for the rest of his life. Frederick knew the risks, very well; he knew that once he turns the machine on again, there’s a good risk of him ending up dead, or worse, in another universe. One less hospitable than this.

Shaking his head of these thoughts, he noted down to think these things over at a later date. For now, he had to get back to the library; no doubt Twilight would be wondering where he was.

“I have to send a letter to Princess Luna, she’ll be excited to know the good news.” He mumbled as he got up from his seat.

___

Making his way through the entrance to the Library, he tensed up. Normally the lights were on and at least some noise would be coming from somewhere; but not now, it was silence.

He walked in a few steps and heard the door slam behind him, spinning around, he jumped as the room was bathed in light and the large group of ponies that were hiding shot up and shouted, “Surprise!”

Frederick fell back, but was caught by a pair of pink legs, he turned his head and came face to face with Pinkie Pie, “Were you surprised!” She shouted, “I think you were, your face was all like,” she imitated a goldfish with her mouth, “so?”

“What is all this?” Frederick asked, dumbfounded. He looked around and finally put the pieces together; the guests, balloons, food. It was a surprise party, “Miss Pie, why did you do this?” He asked, as he got up and looked at her.

“Well, I never got to give you a "welcome to Ponyville and thank you for saving Twilight party".” She replied in one whole breath.

“That’s right,” Twilight said, walking over. She was holding two cups of punch in her magic. She passed Frederick one. “You couldn’t find me as I was helping.” She smiled, “I hope it’s satisfactory, I’m not very good at parties.”

“It’s great, thank you.” He replied, hugging Pinkie, then Twilight.

“Alright, let’s stop the mushy stuff,” Rainbow announced as she flew over, “let’s get this party started!”

As soon as she said that, the lights dimmed slightly and music came on. Frederick hadn’t heard of this genre before, but Pinkie had said that "Pop" was "all the rage" nowadays. Suffice to say, Frederick liked it.

He mainly stood on the side-lines and talked to some ponies that had arrived a bit late, preferring to converse than dance.
Twilight noticed this and feeling a bit sneaky, decided to spike the punch, just a little bit; she only wanted him to loosen up.

She poured in some Applejacks famous whiskey and passed Frederick a cup, which he graciously accepted; downing the whole thing in one, which surprised Twilight.

“What did you put in this?” Frederick asked, “this is really good punch.”

Twilight looked away with an awkward smile, “Oh you know, Pinkie made it so it was bound to be good.”

“Well, tell her it is.” He grinned.

“Sure, I got to go... over there.” She quickly mumbled as she rushed over to Rainbow.

Frederick shrugged and turned back to the pony he was talking to, “No, I don’t think it’s cool to have a box that’s bigger on the inside. If anything it’ll be annoying to clean.”

Twilight made her way over to Rainbow, “psst, Dash.”

“Oh hey Twi, what’s up?” Dash asked, turning from the table of food, crumbs lining her mouth.

Twilight frowned and wiped Rainbow’s mouth, “I need your advice,” she asked.

“Sure, what do you want to know?”

“Well, I just spiked the punch. Silly idea, I know...”

“Silly, no. Awesome, yes. This party could use some livening up to be honest.” Rainbow admitted, shrugging.

“That’s the point, I did it to get Frederick more involved...” Twilight sighed.

“Why would you...” Rainbow asked, “Oh, I see.”

“What’s that meant to mean?” Twilight asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Never mind, I don’t see the problem. He looks just fine.” Rainbow pointed towards Frederick who was calmly standing around chatting to Bon-Bon and Lyra, “See, he can take his drink just fine.”

“I guess, still...”

“No, I think you should drink some instead. You’ve been worried about how he’d take it when you should be worried about yourself. You’re not having fun.” Rainbow suggested, “Drink up!” She grabbed the cup and made Twilight down it.

“Rainbow, seriously!” Twilight groaned as she finished the cup. Thinking it over, she wondered what he harm was in having a few more.

Chapter 8

Twilight groaned, 'Ow...' she tried opening her eyes, but a pesky thing called the sun was warning her not to. 'What happened last night?' She muttered as she tried feeling around for something to jog her memory.

Slowly, she felt herself rise and fall gently, as if she was laying on something nice and warm; taking a chance, she inched her eyelids open and stifled a gasp.

Beneath her laid Frederick. He had his shirt off and was gently cradling her against his chest. Somehow this made her feel all warm inside, but a strange feeling was surfacing, 'What happened...' she said, dread in her voice.

Looking around, she could see a lot of passed out ponies strewn around the library; she kicked herself for spiking the punch last night and now desired to never see any alcohol again.

Reluctantly, she felt the need to get up and use the bathroom. She didn't want to leave his warmth yet, but knew it would get real awkward fast if she didn't.

Slowly, she peeled herself away, feeling the nasty effects of the hangover start, she wobbled up the stairs and opened the bathroom door.

After taking care of business and feeling a lot better, she walked out to see Frederick gone from his place on the floor. Feeling disappointed, she looked around for him, only to see him cleaning some plates in the kitchen.

'Morning Frederick...' Twilight mumbled as she stumbled in.

'Good morning Miss Twilight, how are you feeling?' He asked, surprisingly chirpy after what just happened.

'Please, Twilight is fine; or Twi, I don't mind.' She clarified, 'Do you remember what happened last night?'

'Oh yes, it was a great party. The punch was a little weak, but still, got the job done.'

'You knew about that!?'

'Of course, how could I not taste whiskey in punch?' He replied nonchalantly.

'I see... so what happened between us?' Twilight asked, unsure if she wanted to know after all.

'Nothing, if that's what you're worried about. I saw you drink quite a lot, impressive I might add, you beat Applejack in a drinking contest, then you wandered over to me and started talking gibberish and fell asleep.'

'Oh no, I must have looked terrible,' Twilight fretted, running her hooves through her hair.

'No more than anyone else. Applejack and Pinkie wrestled... it got, intimate...' he shuddered, 'Rainbow dash got wasted and almost everyone else just went with it.'

'Oh... wow.'

'Yeah, it was a good time.'

'Yes, I suppose it was...' Twilight replied, thinking back to earlier.

'Why don't you get everyone out of here and I'll make you breakfast.' Frederick suggested.

'If you’re sure?' Twilight asked, not sure how he was still standing after last night.

'It's ok, anything specific you want?'

'Scrambled eggs, if that's ok?'

'No problem, Twi.'

Twilight smiled, he actually called her Twi. She turned around and shaking off some lingering nausea, gently woke every pony up and got them to leave.

Most of the ponies groaned about being woken up, but a couple absentmindedly congratulated Twilight on nabbing Frederick, to which she would quickly deny it; making the ponies grin.

Finally, once all of the guest had left the library, Twilight sat down at the table and sighed.

'Something the matter, shall I get you some tablets?' Frederick asked with concern. He placed two plates down, one for him and one for Twilight.

'Thank you. No, this'll pass quickly.' She replied.

'If you're sure, just ask if you need anything.'

Twilight smiled and started eating, feeling much better now. She still had things on her mind and would need to talk to somepony about them, but for now, she was content to just sit there and eat.

Frederick finished his eggs and got up, 'I'm going to finish cleaning up, just shout if you need anything.'

Twilight nodded and watched him walk off. She could hear the rustling of cups and paper from the other rooms. 'Why does this have to be so hard...' she thought, trying to remove the memory of her laying on him from her head.

Deciding she needed to talk, she conjured up a scroll and wrote:

Dear Princess Celestia

I've been feeling strange and I feel like I need somepony to talk to. Can I come and see you, preferably as soon as possible.

Your faithful student
Twilight Sparkle.

She teleported the scroll directly to Celestia, no doubt waking her with its "pop", but she felt this was urgent; she could apologise later.

Frederick walked in with a large bag of rubbish, 'Where shall I put this?' He asked, tying it up.

Twilight looked over, 'The bins are just outside, and you can't miss them.'

'Right.'

Frederick walked over to the door and saw a few large pallets of construction materials laying outside the library. 'Oh man, I forgot about them...' he pushed the rubbish in the bin and brought in some of the smaller bags; the held the tongs and some other pieces he would need to get started.

'What's in the bags?' Twilight asked, getting up from the chair and moving towards Frederick.

'Just some equipment, Luna gave me some bits, so I bought some stuff.'

'That was generous of her.'

'Maybe, felt more like a bribe, but whatever helps.' He replied.

'What did you buy then?'

'Some tongs, pieces of metal, a forge and some other stuff. I still need to make a Rune crafting table, but that can wait till everything is set up.'

'You want to set up a forge, in here!' Twilight frowned, she didn't like where this was going.

'No, that will be outside. Why does everyone think that...?’

'Oh, well, I guess that's fine then.' Twilight mumbled. All of a sudden, a reply scroll appeared in front of her, making her jump.

She unfurled it:

"Dear Twilight

I would love for you to come visit me today, I'll have a carriage pick you and Frederick up in a short while.

Please make sure he is presentable, I heard about that party last night.

Princess Celestia"

'Who's that from?' Frederick asked.

'Just the Princess, we're going to Canterlot.' Twilight said.

'What time does she expect us there?'

'She just said, "A short while". Which isn't a long time for her.'

'I see...' Frederick mumbled. He just finished unpacking the last bag as a sharp. Knock on the door rang out. 'I'll see who it is...'

He walked over to the door and said, 'you know, this is a public library, it's not locked...' he opened the door to find two ponies dressed in armour standing there, 'From the Princess I take it.'

'Yes sir. Please don't keep the Princess waiting.' One of the ponies confirmed in a deep voice.

'Twi, we have to go!' Frederick shouted.

'Coming!' She replied, levitating a saddleback onto her back, 'ready.' They walked outside and Twilight locked the door.

The two of them slid into the carriage and it slowly sped up and took off into the sky. Frederick gripped the handlebars for dear life and Twilight couldn't help but chuckle at the expressions of horror that he was making.

'Oh settle down, you big foal. It's perfectly safe.' She shouted.

'Riding a gryphon is safe, riding an airship is safe... this is NOT safe!' He replied, 'there isn't even a back to this thing, let alone a roof.'

'I've used it plenty of times and I’m still alive,' she placed a hoof on his leg, 'see...'

He looked over to her with a small smile, before looking away again. He was aware at how long she was keeping her hoof on his leg and wasn't going for it; but had to accept, it did help.

Twilight realised this and quickly took her hoof away and coughed awkwardly. The two of them stayed in relative silence until the end of the trip, which felt like a lifetime.

The carriage touched down on the landing pad and the two guards unattached themselves. They walked around either side and helped Twilight and Frederick out.

'Thank you,' Twilight whispered.

'Thanks,' Frederick said, stretching his legs.

'This way please, the Princess is waiting.' One of the guards said, walking towards a set of double doors that lead into the castle.

'We should go,' Frederick said to Twilight, turning to looking at her.

She nodded back and quickly looked away. Twilight trotted after the guard, letting Frederick follow behind.

The guard pushed the set of doors open and walked on through. Twilight and Frederick walked through and followed. They passed by various tapestries depicting scenes throughout Equestria.

Frederick stopped for a second and admired the stained glass windows that showed Twilight and her friends defeating Nightmare Moon. He stared at it in disbelief. He turned to Twilight, 'Is that really you?' He asked pointing to the window.

Twilight turned around, blushed and turned away, 'Yes, it is...' she replied bashfully.

'Wow, that's impressive. I'm surprised it didn't come up earlier.'

'Well, no pony really talks about what we've done. It was quite a while ago.' She admitted, 'but thank you.'

Frederick turned and walked after the guard. Taking glances at the busts of ponies and portraits along the way.

Eventually, the three of them made it to a set of doors with Celestia's cutie mark in the centre, 'We're here, and Celestia is waiting inside.' The guard said, saluting Twilight.

She nodded back and watched the guard walk away. She turned to Frederick, 'Let's go.'

'Alright.'

Twilight pushed the doors open with her magic and walked forwards. Celestia sat on her throne, high above.

'Twilight, how wonderful to see you!' She called down. Rising from her throne, she unfurled her wings and ruffled them slightly. She flapped and glided down to the ground in front of the pair.

Twilight rushed up and hugged her mentor, taking pleasure in her touch, 'I've missed this,' she whispered.

'So have I,' Celestia replied, nuzzling Twilight.

Frederick felt a little awkward, but kept quiet; knowing that this was a tender moment.

Eventually, the pair parted and Twilight moved back over to Frederick's side. Celestia looked over to him, 'It's nice to meet you again, Frederick.'

'You too, Princess.' Frederick bowed.

'Please, no need for that.' She said, smiling, 'you are my guests today, no need for the formality.'

'Thank you Princess,' he said, 'what did you want to talk about?'

'Actually, I needed to talk to Twilight first, if that's ok?'

'Oh yes, of course.' Frederick replied, confused. 'What should I do while you two are together?'

'I'm sure my sister would like to see you, this time in pony.' Celestia said, placing a hoof under her chin, 'I'll send her a letter.'

Celestia conjured up a scroll and scribbled down a quick letter; sending it off to her sister. 'There, she should get back to us quickly.'

'Okay, should I stay here?' Frederick asked, 'could your sister find me if I look around?'

'I'm sure she will, have fun.'

Frederick turned towards Twilight, 'I'll see you later Twi.' He smiled awkwardly, turning towards the doors and walking out.

'Bye...' she said, lingering a little too long.

As soon as Frederick walked round the corner, Twilight let out a heavy sigh and slumped her head down.

Celestia frowned and picked her up in her golden aura, 'Twilight, whatever is the matter?' She asked, concerned.

'You will think it’s silly...' Twilight mumbled as Celestia walked over to a different door, leading to a small hallway.

'I wouldn't ever think that,' Celestia assured. She opened the door and walked through, giving a nod to the guard, who saluted. 'Please, I can see it's troubling you.'

Twilight sighed again, forcing Celestia to turn her gaze towards her. Inwardly, Twilight cringed; she never liked it when Celestia gave her that look, it made her talk.

Celestia stopped walking and continues to hold her gaze on the nervous mare; she was going to make her talk, it was for her own good after all.

'Alright!' Twilight shouted, 'I'm starting to like Frederick...' Twilight immediately covered her mouth with her hooves and went bright red.

Celestia simply raised an eyebrow, 'Why wouldn't you, he's nice.' She replied. She knew what Twilight meant, but needed to know if she knew it as well, for sure; there didn't need to be any miscommunication now.

'I mean, I like, like him.'

'Oh,' Celestia simply said, faking surprise, 'but you've only known him for less than a week.'

'I know...' Twilight looked away, shame obvious on her face. Celestia continued walking, deciding to hold Twilight a bit closer to her chest; her motherly instincts blooming.

'Are you sure it's not just that he's,' Celestia paused for a second, she had to word this correctly, 'new, and mysterious?'

'What do you mean?'

'Well, he's from a completely new world, he is kind of dashing... in his own way and he's promised to teach you knew stuff.'

'I guess he is kind of a mystery...' Twilight admitted, suddenly unsure of herself, 'what do you think?' She asked.

'I can't help you here... you have to figure it out on your own.' Celestia opened another door and entered her own chambers, it was decorated in fine silks, but still had the personal touched that made it unique to her, such as artefacts from thousands of years ago that she still liked to stare at and remember.

'What does that mean?' Twilight asked, 'I can't figure it out, that's why I came here; surely you can help?'

Celestia placed Twilight on her own bed and sat down next to her. She draped a wing over the mare and nuzzled her, smiling at the closeness despite the sensitive topic. 'Despite what many think, I don't have all the answers. Cadence is much better with these sorts of things. Would you like me to ask her?'

'No, thank you.' Twilight mumbled, 'I guess I just need some time. It's all a little strange to me...'

'It will be, it's your first time dealing with this.'

Twilight looked away, her face tinted red, 'I'm not a filly anymore...'

'You will always be that little filly I first saw.' Celestia cooed, rubbing Twilight's back with a wing.

Twilight smiled and leaned against Celestia, sighing from the contact, 'I'm so confused, I want to be near him, but now I don't know.'

'Shh, it will all work out.'

___

Frederick walked around the corner and sighed. The awkwardness was beginning to get harder to stand by the second. He wasn't one for situations like that and it obviously showed by that cardboard goodbye he had said.

He walked down some hallways, admiring the portraits and windows until he came to a set of familiar double doors; they had Luna's cutie mark in the centre.

He stood in front of them, contemplating whether or not to knock; from the looks of it, there were no guards about. Either it was too early, or they were changing rotation; either way, he didn't know what to do.

While standing there, the twin doors opened on their own, a dark blue aura hanging around the handles, pulling then inwards. Taking this as a sign, Frederick shrugged and walked on in, taking careful steps, just in case it was a trap; he couldn't be too careful.

Once inside, the two doors shut rather suddenly, catching him by surprise and making him jump. A soft laugh echoed throughout the darkened room, easing his nervousness.

'Luna, you there?' He asked, knowing full well it was her.

'Aw, you always spoil my fun,' Luna called out, using her magic to illuminate various candles around the room, 'what brings you to Canterlot?' She asked, getting out of bed, 'did you come all the way here to see little old me?'

'I'm guessing you would just love that, but no. Twilight had some business with your sister; meaning that I, for some reason, had to come along.'

'That doesn't sound very nice, does it?' Luna asked, slipping on a silk night dress, strangely familiar to the dress she wore when she first met Frederick, 'do you like it, I had it custom made.'

'It's very lovely.'

'Indeed,' Luna said, wandering closer, 'have you given any thought to my proposal?'

'Yes, I have.'

'And?' Luna asked impatiently.

'I agree, you can help, as long as you follow my rules.'

Luna squeed and launched herself at Frederick, who caught her in his magic. There was an element of strain showing on his face and he let her down, having to catch his breath. He gripped his hand tightly and rubbed, feeling the pain flow away.

'Art thou well?' Luna asked, a look of shock on her face. She rushed over and asked again.

'I'll be fine. It's just lingering pain, nothing to worry about.'

'Nonsense, come and sit down.' She guided him over to her bed and he sat on the edge, slowly regaining his breath back. 'I can get the doctor, if you would like?' She asked, gazing at his hand.

Frederick shook his head, 'It's ok, give me a minute.'

Luna nodded and simply sat next to him, a frown across her features. She felt guilty that she had hurt him; inadvertently, but still, hurt him anyway.

'I shall follow all of your rules, by this I swear,' she said, holding a hoof on his knee, 'I promise.'

Frederick smiled, 'Good to hear... and thank you for the bits they came in handy.'

'Perfect, I knew they would. But now that I'm helping, we have an almost unlimited budget; unless my sister says no...'

Chapter 9

Frederick walked out of Luna’s chambers, gripping his hand. Luna wandered out behind him, “So, what time should I come by?”

Frederick turned around, “Um, how about you come round at six.”

“Sure, that sounds great. Did you need any more funds?” Luna asked, moving closer to Frederick.

“I don’t think so,” He said, placing a hand to his chin, “at least not yet.” He stood there for a second before saying, “I think this will turn out well, Twi, you, Smart Glass and me. We might actually figure something out,” He grinned.

“Smart Glass?”

“Oh, Celestia said I have to be supervised. She doesn’t seem that bad, maybe a bit rough around the edges, but I don’t mind.”

“Well, if you’re sure we can work with her. I’ll trust you.” Luna replied, forcing a smile. “You had better get going, I’m sure Twilight will get worried.”

“Yeah, I’ll see you later then.” Frederick said, walking away down the hall.

___

Twilight sighed and stretched, she felt mentally drained. Her mind had been working non-stop to process this new information; not letting her have a moments rest. “I should go, you said you need to talk to Frederick.”

Celestia shrugged, “You’re more important right now,” She said, rubbing Twilight’s back, “How are you feeling?”

Twilight hesitated for a moment, “I’m alright, and I just don’t want to think about this anymore, it’s frustrating.”

“Well, how about we spend some time together, just mares?” Celestia suggested, grinning, “We can let Frederick wander around Canterlot, he looks a bit pale and should get out more.”

“What about your duties as Princess?” Twilight asked, “You can’t just stop for the day.”

“Who’s going to stop me?” Celestia whispered, and let out a laugh, “Come on.” She said, pulling Twilight up from the bed.

Twilight groaned and shook her tired head, “Are you sure?”

“Yes. Now come on, I think we both need this!”

Smiling, Twilight followed Celestia back into the hallway and out into the throne room. Celestia turned to the guard, walked up to him and whispered in his ear. He nodded and saluted before walking in front of the throne and sitting down.

“What did you say to him?” Twilight asked, looking up at her mentor.

“Not much; just that I’ll be back in a few hours.”

“Oh, ok.”

The Princess turned and wandered over to the throne room doors and pushed them open with her magic. Standing outside was Frederick looking slightly impatient. With a small but unnoticeable grin, she walked over. “Well, hello there Frederick. How was Luna today?”

“She was, good.” He turned to Twilight, “Are you alright?”

Twilight looked away, “Y-yes, I’m ok now.”

“Good to hear,” He turned back to the princess, “I take it everything in in order for my research to continue?”

“Yes it most certainly is,” She replied, “In fact, that’s what we were talking about, I think it would be beneficial for you to take a look around my fair city. Maybe a bit of sightseeing?”

“I... Sure, I don’t mind.” Frederick looked about, “I take it this is the way out?” He asked, pointing down one of the hallways.

Celestia nodded, “Just take a right, then a left and you will see the signs; you can’t miss it.”

“Okay, I’ll see you later.”

“Oh, one second.” The princess summoned a small bag of bits and handed them to Frederick, “You might need these if you’re going to be going around.” She said, smiling.

“Thank you, Princess.” He bowed, making her roll her eyes. Frederick turned around and wandered off down the hallway and took the first right, out of sight.

___

Twilight and Celestia walked off down a different hallway than Frederick. Celestia knew the best way to really help Twilight is to keep her away from him as much as possible for the time being; he was a distraction and soon enough they would have to work together, which she was beginning to regret allowing.

“Princess, where are we going?” Twilight asked, following behind.

“We are going to have a little mare time, just the two of us. It’s time we caught up, I’ve missed you.”

“So have I,” Twilight replied as she moved around to Celestia’s side, “but surely we could simply talk somewhere, we were just in your chambers.”

“I know, but I feel like pampering you for once, it’s nice to look ones best, even if you’re worrying.” She smiled, looking down at Twilight.

They made it to a quite unassuming door and the Princess knocked. A few seconds later, the door opened and out walked a unicorn mare. She wore her light grey hair up in a bun and had her blue coat elegantly combed, “Princess, it’s a pleasure. How may I help you?” She said bowing.

“I’m here to get some much needed attention for my Friend, Soft grip.” Celestia replied, smiling.

Twilight looked up and smiled softly, leaning against Celestia’s leg.

“Most certainly. Come inside.” Soft Grip moved aside and let the pair pass through the doorway. She closed it behind her as she went in herself. The room looked like any typical spa setting, except it had hundreds of different bottles, all labelled in different languages and symbols.

Along one wall stood a small cabinet with a gold lock on one side, Twilight stared at it for a bit, trying to understand why it would need a lock in a spa, but soon gave up as the masseuse walked over. “What would you like?” She asked, “Facial scrubs, oil rubs or maybe the full service?”

Celestia coughed, “I think the facials and rubs will do fine, no need for too much fun today...”

“What’s the full service?” Twilight asked, looking up to her mentor.

Celestia leaned down and whispered, making Twilight face beam red, “oh my...” she suddenly understood what was in the cabinet and looked away, trying not to imagine them.

“Indeed.”

“You have this a lot?” She asked, not sure if she really wanted to know the answer.

“Sometimes,” Celestia replied non-chillingly, “I get, lonely...”

“Oh.”

“Never mind that, what have you been up to since we last spoke?” Celestia asked, sitting in one of the seats.

Twilight walked over to the seat next to her and jumped up; they were made for Alicorn in mind, meaning most of the stuff in the room was a little too large for her, in more ways than one. “Not much really, Rarity started a new line of fashion, Rainbow is her usual self, Applejack has started harvesting, Pinkie Pie is... well, Pinkie and I’ve been studying, like usual.”

“Well it doesn’t seem like you’ve done anything fun lately.” Celestia said, “Maybe you could use a vacation, to get out of that stuffy library?”

“But, what about the research, I can’t just abandon it...” Twilight fretted.

Celestia let out a short laugh, “I didn’t mean right now, especially with what you’re going through. I’m just saying, maybe it would be best to enjoy other things, let alone studying.”

“But what, I’m only good at that...” Twilight looked down at the floor.

“Twilight Sparkle.” Celestia said in her motherly voice, causing Twilight to look over, “Don’t you ever say that, you helped saved my sister, defeat Discord, saved cadences wedding and stopped King Sombre, least of all, you figured out Star swirls spell.” Celestia softened her gaze, “You are my friend; you are amazing, and don’t ever forget that.”

Twilight gazed up at Celestia, “Princess...”

“I’m sorry for that,” the princess looked away, “It won’t happen again.” She held her gaze at the wall, not ready to surrender her point of view.

“Thank you,” Twilight whispered.

___

Frederick walked down the hall and around the corner. He headed to the castle entrance and after a surprisingly short time, found it. “Huh, thought I would have gotten lost...” he muttered as he passed by a couple of guards that were looking at him funny.

He walked out of the castle and down the path leading to the gate. Passing through, he noticed the guards tense up slightly at his presence; either they were new, or they lacked proper discipline.

“They would never allow that on my world...” he thought, eying one of the guards up.

Frederick walked down the road and into the city. He felt a little nostalgic from the cobblestone streets and quite modern architecture; in some ways it easy surprisingly similar to New Haven, but it had the rustic feel of Shregrove.

He passed one coffee shop and paused, “It’s been a while since I’ve had a good coffee...” he mumbled to himself. He took a look at the bag of bits and shrugged, “why not.”

Pushing the door open, Frederick walked inside and lined up behind the counter, waiting for his turn to order. After a few minutes of waiting, he got his turn and was greeted by a bright pink earth pony, the name badge read: Bright eyes.

“Hi, Bright eyes. Can I get a regular coffee please?” Frederick asked, “With a little cinnamon and nutmeg?”

Bright eyes smiled over the counter, “Certainly, to go?”

“Yes please.”

“Okay, that’s three bits please.” She said, holding her smile; it was actually brightening Frederick’s day.

He pulled out three bits and placed them in her hoof. She put then in the register, “It will be a couple of minutes.”

“Take your time.” Frederick replied, smiling back. He waited for the coffee by the side of the counter and watched as she masterfully operated the machine pouring almost perfect coffee into the cup. After she took the cinnamon and nutmeg and poured a little of each on top, placing the lid on afterwards.

“Thank you very much, have a great day,” she said, waving him off.

Frederick took a sip and walked out of the shop, as expected it was as good as any in New Haven, but the whole experience felt... better, like she had actually enjoyed making the drink; it made Frederick feel good.

He carries walking down the street, not really wandering anywhere in particular. Eventually he made it to the local library and finished his coffee while sitting outside on a bench. Naturally he got a lot of looks, like the first time in Ponyville; these seemed different though, almost with more malice.

Everywhere he looked, Frederick saw at least one pony staring. He began to feel self-conscious and wondered if it was the right idea to wander around Canterlot; he should have stayed with Twilight, she didn’t judge.

“Why am I even thinking of this? They just haven’t seen a human before, it’s natural.” He thought to himself.

Finally finishing the coffee, he stood up and wandered over to the bin, throwing the cup away and walking away. He followed the general crowd around until he made it to the central marketplace.

It was crowded, as expected, but he didn’t realise that it would be seriously packed. Thankfully, due to his height and build, most ponies parted for him, meaning he had a relatively easy time walking about.

Wandering about, he checked out various stalls. He wanted to get something for Twilight, to say thank you for letting him stay at her Library and for generally putting up with him; he knew it wasn’t easy.

He spotted a nice book seller near the middle of the market and made his way over. He looked over the selections, but really didn’t know what to buy; he didn’t know any of the authors, for obvious reasons.

“Looking for anything in particular?” The vendor asked, looking slightly nervous.

“Um, yeah. A present, my friend is a BIG reader, but I don’t know if any of these are good... no offense.” Frederick replied.

“None taken,” the vendor calmed down a little, giving a sigh, “what kind of books does her like?”

“Uh... old ones, I hope.” Frederick looked at the vendor with a look that spoke volumes.

“That, doesn’t help much.” She muttered, “Well, I have a few select specials, just in stock.” She pulled out the first book, “First edition, Star swirl the bearded almanac. Very rare.”

“Ok... some sort of mage?”

“Oh yes, only the most important pre-classical conjurer, he alone made over two hundred spells!”

“Wow... how much?” Frederick asked. He didn’t know much about magic in general, but making spells back in Alaria was HARD; to make two hundred, this pony must have been a genius.

“Only fifty bits, a bargain,” the vendor replied, holding the book in her magic.

Frederick looked down at the bag and shook it, he didn’t know how much was in here, but hopefully it was enough. “Sure, I’ll take it.” He held the bag up and started counting the bits out.

Eventually he had the book bagged up and was making his way back out of the market, his bag of bits quite a lot lighter, but a genuine smile on his face. He couldn’t wait to see Twilight.

Chapter 10

Frederick walked up the hill towards the castle, his grip tightening onto the small bag containing Twilight’s book.

He didn’t exactly know if she owned the book already and if she did, wouldn’t really know if he would be disappointed; he most certainly would have expected it, she basically owned a library after all.

Feeling a bit downtrodden after buying a gift that she could possibly already have, Frederick walked over to a bench and sat down. Not really feeling like going back to the castle now, he took the book out and opened it to the first page; taking care not to damage it.

“Hmm, interesting.” He mumbled, reading through. From what Frederick could guess, it seemed as if the magic in both worlds were almost the same but with some differences.

The first was that magic was a lot more active in Equestria. Frederick rolled his eyes and sighed, “Of course...” he muttered.

The second was that there wasn’t any blood magic, from what Frederick read; it simply couldn’t be made by ponies, they are too affected by magic to be corrupted entirely.

Frederick looked up from the book, “Wow,” he said, finding a new level of respect for them.

He spent about twenty minutes reading some of spells in the book. Frederick wasn’t a talented mage, or had any interest, but something about Star swirl really got him interested in learning. “Maybe I could incorporate Runes into spells...” he thought, bagging the book away and getting up, “I’ll have to ask Twilight to teach me, that’ll be fun.” He thought, bringing a smile to his face.

He turned towards the castle and started walking back. “Should I get it gift-wrapped... no, that’s stupid and cheesy... it’s not like it’s a big deal.” He mumbled, taking care not to look like a crazy person; unfortunately, it wasn’t convincing anyone.

“Excuse me sir,” a voice asked from behind Frederick, “can you turn around?”

Frederick did so and saw two police ponies standing here in front of him, “Uh, hi. Is there a problem officer?”

“I’ve been told you’ve been disturbing the peace around here,” one of the officers, obviously older, said, looking to the other.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Frederick replied, knowing what was about to happen.

“I have to ask you to come with us to the station.” The officer asked, taking out a set of uncomfortable looking hoof cuffs.

Frederick sighed, placed the book in his back pocket and held out his hands, “Be gentle,” He asked.

___

Celestia and Twilight walked out of the spa with their manes and tails looking absolutely fabulous, their mood improved and in the case of Twilight, a mind completely free of Frederick.

“Wait, so he didn’t know they were snakes!” Twilight asked, gasping for breath.

“No, he simply inserted them without thinking.”

“Oh, oh wow... I think I’ll use that against shining sometime...” Twilight said, grinning with glee.

Celestia smiled down at her student, it’s been so long since she’d seen her simply let go and have fun; it was helping to actually make her feel a little younger for a change.

“Shall we go back to my proper quarters, I have some wine I’ve been saving.” Celestia asked, nudging Twilight playfully.

“I don’t know, I’m not known to handily my drink that well...”

“How much do you drink?” Celestia said, faking shock.

“Uh... not a lot. I may have had a little too much at the party and slept on...” Twilight’s face fell and she looked away.

“Oh, I’m sorry; I didn’t mean to...”

“No, it’s alright. I have to get over this, I just don’t know how...”

“I can tell him to move out, if you’d like?”

“No!” Twilight shouted, before covering her mouth “I mean, that’s alright...”

Celestia smiled and nodded, “Please, we are friends and I can take a little shouting; I am a grown mare, last I checked...”

Twilight looked up into Celestia’s eyes, “I want him stay, and I’ll deal with it in time.”

“Okay,” Celestia whispered, “let’s go.”

The two of them trotted off towards Celestia’s chambers. They walked the way they arrived and opened the doors to the throne room, but before they could enter, a guard pony rushed up to the princess.

“Princess,” he gasped and bowed low to the floor, “I bring news from the city.”

“Rise and show.” She commanded, filling the role of Princess in an instant; gone was a friend, mentor. In its place was one of the rulers.

“It’s about your guest, Sir Frederick,” at his name, Celestia frowned and Twilight tensed up, “he’s been arrested, for disturbing the peace in the noble district.”

“Which station is he being held at?” She asked, holding her frown. The longer she thought about it, the less she liked hearing about it.

“3rd on mane, reports say there’s quite a crowd, mostly noble ponies.”

“Alright. Thank you, dismissed.” The guard saluted and rushed off somewhere else. Celestia turned to Twilight, “I think it’s best if you stay here.”

“What, why?” Twilight asked, confusion evident on her face, “I want to go, and I want to see if he’s ok.” She argued.

Celestia sighed; there was no way of stopping her now. “Alright, I’ll teleport up there, grab hold of my wing.” Celestia held her wing out towards Twilight, who held it gently in her hoof. Within seconds, the sound of crackling and the smell of ozone filled the air.

The warps through space and landed behind the group of noble ponies waiting outside the police station. They were holding signs with weird pictures that kind of seemed the same shape as Frederick, but the pair couldn’t be sure.

“What is the meaning of this?” Celestia shouted out to the crowd. They turned around and rushed over; one of the nobler looking ponies stepped forwards and started explaining, not bothering to bow.

“Your majesty, I must demand you get rid of that monstrous creature in there!” She said, his voice high and shrill, “he was seen wandering around, looting bins and stealing items from vendors!”

“Any proof?” The princess asked, trying to stay calm and collected in front of the stupidity.

“Why yes, eye witnesses. Surely you would believe your own nephew, Prince Blueblood?” The noble pony replied, suddenly stricken smug.

Prince Blueblood walked through the crowd and causally strolled up to the princess, “Aunty, I saw everything. That monster easy terrorising the neighbourhood, I want it gone.” He moaned.

Celestia sighed; Twilight could see the frustration on her face at having to deal with these ponies, she was thankful Celestia never let her talk to them.

“Before I make any decision, I will see the creature,” Celestia said, gaining replies such as “too right” and “Excellent decision” from the crowed.

“Come Twi, let’s examine it,” Celestia said, turning back. Twilight nodded and moved closer, almost under Celestia; she did this lest she touched one of the crowd.

Once out of the way, Twilight stepped out and blushed, “sorry...”

“No need to apologise, I don’t mind,” Celestia replied, feeling motherly and protective. She began feeling like this as soon as she heard about the accident that started this whole thing and began feeling more protective of Twilight than ever before.

“Oh, ok...” Twilight said, walking up the steps to the station. She was feeling closer to Celestia than ever; it was making her feel nice.

The pair walked into the station and looked about. A sizable number of guards were stationed outside one of the cell doors, indicating that Frederick was obviously in there.

“I want to speak to the officer in charge!” Celestia demanded.

The police looked over wide eyed, one of then scurried off into a room in the back. A few minutes later, he rushed out and over to the Princess, “Ma’am, he’s ready to see you...” the pony whimpered.

Rolling her eyes, Celestia walked past the shaking pony with Twilight hot on her hooves. She walked into the room, seeing a sweating pony sitting in a small chair behind the desk and instantly knew this would be straightforward.

“Sir, what is in that cell out there?” Celestia asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Princess, we found it wandering outside. It stole from one of the vendors,” he took the book from the top drawer and hoofed it over the desk haphazardly, making Twilight cringe, “he was caught with this. It was also acting weird and upsetting some of the residents.”

Twilight picked up the book in her magic and uncreased some edges, “Princess, why would he buy this?”

“I don’t know Twilight...”

“Ma’am, he didn’t buy it. The vendor came to us after and said she witnessed him take it.” The officer interjected, looking back and forth between the pair.

“I want to see it,” Celestia demanded.

“Of course, I shall give you our best guar-”

“You do not think I am able to defend myself?” Celestia interrupted.

“Of course I do, please go straight in!” The officer replied, almost shaking.

“Good, come Twilight, we must interrogate it.”

“Yes Princess.” Twilight kept hold of the book and followed Celestia out of the room. They walked around some desks and made it to the cell door.

“Open it,” the Princess said. The police did as they were told and opened the door enough for the Princess and Twilight to step through, closing it afterwards.

The pair saw Frederick laying on the blue, cold stone floor with his back against the wall, asleep. His hands and feet were bound and then wrapped around a nail that had been impacted to the floor, leaving him with very little room to move. He was hunched over his knees in a quite uncomfortable looking position and the sound of a slight wheezing made it sound like he had been beaten.

Twilight couldn’t stand it and rushed over, dropping the book on the floor, ripping some of the pages. By the time she had reached him, which was only a couple of feet, there were tears threatening to stream down her face, “Frederick, oh no...” she got close and heard his wheezing. Without thinking, her eyes glowed white and she ripped the nails out of the ground with a harsh crack, freeing him.

She levitated him over and onto his back, moving over to his side, leaning over his face. Opening his eyes, he looked over at a frazzled looking Twilight, her horn glowing and bits of stone laying around her, “I’m so glad to see you,” he checked out, grabbing his chest and coughing.

Twilight whimpered, moved some hair out of her face and placed a hoof onto his chest. She turned to Celestia, “Help him!” She shouted, her hoof trembling against his warm chest.

The Princess’s horn glowed gold and so did Frederick’s chest. A few minutes later, his wheezing died down, back into normal breathing, “Thank you,” Twilight said, “thank you...”

“I see you found the book,” Frederick whispered, “I guess the surprise is gone.”

“What do you mean?” Twilight asked, confused at how he could even think of the book at a time like that. She levitated the book over and wiped away some stray tears, “why did you have it?” She asked, disbelieving even herself.

“I got it... I bought it, for you.” Frederick replied. He rose and leaned against the wall, this time feeling better with not having to be hunched over and having broken ribs.

“For me, why?” Twilight asked, looking down at the book, she breathed sharply when Frederick moved some hair from her face, can tensed up as he moved her gaze away from the book towards himself.

Frederick chucked, “You really don’t know?” He shook his head at the expression she was giving him, “You saved my life, you let me stay in your home, you’ve helped me almost fit in where I don’t belong. I thought I could get you something, as little as it was... and even though it was the Princesses money...” he turned to the princess, “sorry...”

Celestia smiled and shook her head deciding to keep quiet.

“This is... amazing,” Twilight paused and stared into Fredericks eyes, “thank you...” she whispered, leaning closer, her eyelids closing.

“You’re welcome...” Frederick whispered back, not moving his own lids slowly closing as well; as if he couldn’t control them.

Their lips touched, electricity flowed through and warmed their faces. Twilight reluctantly pulled back and caught her breath; oh how she wanted to stay there, on the floor, in the cold cell. To her, at that moment, it was better than heaven. “Wow...” She whispered, opening her eyes. Her nervousness was gone, replaced with utter bliss; she no longer had any reservations about him, she knee now. As naive as she was about love, she knew...

Frederick opened his eyes as well, “Oh yes...” He agreed, suddenly aware of Celestia in the room. His eyes turned to her, his face bright red. He couldn’t see her in the room, it was like she was never there.

He frowned and turned back to Twilight, who was looking over his face and licking her lips, caressing the flavour of, what looked to be her first kiss off of her tongue, savouring it.

Twilight noticed him watching, “Something wrong?” She asked, worry on her face. “I did it wrong, didn’t I?” She muttered, before leaning forwards again, “I can fix this I can make it perfect!”

“Twilight,” Frederick said as she continued to fret. “Twi, it was great,” She stopped and stared at Frederick, “really, you were.”

“You mean it,” she asked, suddenly becoming all shy.

“Yes,” he said coming her down, “though this is a bit sudden...”

“Not for me,” Twilight mumbled, nuzzling Frederick’s hand. He looked down and an unreadable expression formed on his face, “Twi, can we talk about this?”

She stopped and leant up, she moved to sitting beside Frederick on the stone floor, tail swishing behind her, “If you’re sure,” she said a little apprehensively.

“I need to know why you kissed me.”

“I... like you,” She whispered barely he arable.

“What was that?” Frederick asked.

“I... like you,” Twilight said, this time so he could hear it, “I’ve been worrying for days now... that’s why we came to see the Princess.” She admitted, looking guilty.

“I see... why do you like me?”

Twilight looked up at Frederick and frowned “I can’t... I can’t explain it; I just, do. It just is.” Twilight blushed and looked away.

“I... ok.” He simply said, without anything else; there wasn’t anything else to say.

Twilight quickly looked back up, “huh?”

“I’ve been feeling stuff as well, I thought it was just gratitude. But now, I don’t think it is anymore.” Frederick looked away, “I could only think of what you’d do when I gave you that book... I only thought of you.” He paused, “I can only think of you.”

He turned back a cupped Twilight’s face, she leaned into it, “I don’t know if this is fast, or slow in pony relationships, but it feels right.” He sighed, “I’ve said to multiple ponies that I wasn’t ready, or I’ve only been here for less than a week,” he looked about, “but they were excuses, they can’t work anymore.”

“It does feel right. Oh Celestia, it does.” Twilight agreed, nodding her head and smiling.

“I don’t know if I’m ever going to get home, but right now I care so little...” Frederick whispered, for once not caring about home.

Twilight breathed in, “Can I kiss you, again?” Her face tinting slightly red.

“I’d like that.”

She moved forwards and touched lips again. The same feeling flowed through them; the warmth, the surge of emotions, it really felt right for both of them.

“Ahem”

The pair broke apart red faced and found Celestia standing there with a raised eyebrow, “That was a long kiss...” she said, with a small smile.

Twilight started stuttering. Reacting, Frederick rose and walked over to Celestia. “Twilight said why you brought us to Canterlot. Being the closest family member, I must say; I will not hurt her, I promise you this.” He placed a hand over his heart and a steadfast expression on his face, “do you accept?”

Celestia was taken aback by this display, this has never happened before, “uh, yes. Of course I do.”

Frederick uncovered his heart and hugged Celestia, “Thank you, please forgive me for touching you.”

Celestia didn’t really know what to do, she wasn’t sure what brought this whole situation together.

Frederick stepped back, “That was used back on my world, for the parents of women. Men would ask to date their daughters, using that exact line.” He smiled, “I shall use it with her parents shortly. You were the closest relationship to mother in the vicinity, I hope you’ll forgive me if it seemed rude.”

“Mother...” Celestia muttered under her breath. She felt tingly as she heard that. Shaking her head, “No, you were being noble, for that there is no rudeness. Make sure you ask her parents right away, I shall teleport you there now.” She turned to Twilight, “come now.”

Twilight sat there with her mouth open. Slowly she realised that and closed it. She wandered over and held Fredericks leg with a hoof. Twilight looked up at Frederick, “you might want to close your eyes, I’m sure this is your first time. Also, find a bucket fast.” She grinned.

“Ready?” Celestia asked.

“Yes.”

Celestia’s horn glowed and with a snap, the pair were gone.

Author's Notes:

I'm not really sure about this chapter. If anyone has any ideas to make it... better. Please pm me them.

Chapter 11

With a crack, Twilight and Frederick were pulled across space, landing outside a modern two story house. The front of it was made from large glass panels, held together with long beams of metal; overall it looked out of place, but very modern.

Frederick wasn’t feeling impressed. If anything, he felt nauseas, quickly looking around for anything bowl, just so he wouldn’t have to vomit on the floor.

“Are you alright?” Twilight asked, concerned. She knew this would happen, as it did to almost every unicorn during their first teleportation; but this seemed worse.

Frederick clutched his hand and grimaced in pain. He hid it in front of him, so that Twilight wouldn’t see; he didn’t want her to worry. “I’m,” he took a breath and focused on negating the pain, “fine...” he said calmly.

“Really?” She asked.

“Really,” he confirmed, turning around. He held his hand behind his back, slowly rubbing it. He could feel the pent up magical energy the shards of Unox had absorbed from Celestia; it didn’t feel right, having someone else’s magic in him, almost dirty.

Twilight nervously looked between the house and Frederick. “Are you sure you have to ask my dad. I think it’s a little early to be meeting parents...” Twilight said, before holding a hoof over her mouth, “I’m so sorry, I forgot...”

“It’s okay Twi,” Frederick replied, cupping her cheek.

She leaned into his hand, “But why now, it’s been what, ten minutes?”

“Because, this is tradition. It wouldn’t be right for your father to not know you are dating someone, it’s almost like lying to him.” Frederick explained, stroking Twilights cheek, “It’s taken seriously on my world and seeing as it’s the only thing I can currently do at the moment, I plan on doing it right.”

“I... didn’t know. If you have to, I will let you.” Twilight replied, smiling. “But my dad is very protective, so is my brother.” She warned.

“How bad could they-” Frederick started, before being interrupted by something slamming him in the side.

He flew across the cobble, landing on his back and rolling into a bin. Looking up, he just about saw a spear held over his neck and Twilight shouting at a stallion; then lost consciousness.

___

Twilight stood there, her face cupped by Frederick. “How bad could they-” she heard him say, before he was viciously ripped away and across the cobble.

She turned towards the location of the hit and found Shining armour and her dad, Nightlight.

“What the buck!” She screamed, rushing over to Frederick. She was stopped by a purple shield materialising over her, stopping her from getting close.

“Twill, it could be dangerous.” Shining said, running up to the shield, his horn glowing. “Are you hurt?”

“No, but you will be if you don’t let me out!” She screamed again.

Shining armour frowned, “That thing was trying to hurt you.”

Nightlight rushed over, grabbing a hold of shining’s spear and placing it against Frederick’s throat.

“No, THAT THING is a he. He is my colt friend!” She shouted, blood rushing to her face.

Shining armour laughed, “Now is not the time for jokes Twily, where did it come from, the caves?” He asked, a serious expression on his face.

“Shining Armour!”

Shining turned around, “Cadence, please go back inside, this could get dangerous.” Shining asked, walking over to his wife. By now, there was a small crowd of ponies watching from the other side of the street.

“Dear, let Twilight out of that shield, now.” She demanded, “She is more than capable of defending herself.” Cadence turned to Nightlight, “take that spear away from his neck.”

“But honey,” he pleaded, looking around.

“Now.”

“Fine,” Shining Armour frowned and dropped his shield around Twilight, its solidity melting. Nightlight reluctantly took the spear away and levitated it back to Shining.

As soon as all of the shield had melted away, Twilight ran over to Frederick. “Oh no,” she muttered, worry overcoming her. “What possessed you to do this?” She screamed at her father.

“Honey, I saw it touching you!” He replied, moving closer.

“No, stay back, you’ve done enough!”

“Twilight, please. It could be dangerous still.” Her father pleaded, not listening to his daughter.

“HE! His name is Frederick!” She shouted, tears streaming down her face as she hugged Frederick’s chest. She could feel him breathing still, meaning he wasn’t in a horrible condition.

“Twilight, let me bring him inside. That’s no place for him to stay,” Cadence offered, moving forwards.

Twilight looked up, stared at Cadence and nodded. She felt Cadence’s aura pick them both up, letting her stay with Frederick. They were brought in the house where they were placed on the sofa.

Shining and Night light followed behind apprehensively. They tried whispering to each other, but a stern look from Cadence put a stop to that.

___

Frederick woke up with a splitting headache and sore back. He opened his eyes to find himself outside, in the castle gardens.

“Luna!” He shouted. A few minutes later, the sound of wings could be heard behind himself. Frederick turned and saw Luna in her human form, she was wearing the familiar yellow dress again, but this time she had wings poking out of the back and a horn on her forehead.

“Frederick, what brings you to my domain this early in the day?” She asked, more confused than annoyed.

“That’s the thing, I can’t remember.” He replied, stretching his back, “the last thing I remember is talking to Twi... then here, but I can’t remember what about.”

“Interesting, can I check your memories? I might be able to find out.” Luna suggested. “Only the ones from today.”

“I guess, I’m sure you’ll find out from your sister anyway.” He said, smiling softly.

Confused, Luna charged up her horn and placed it on Frederick’s forehead. Instantly, she felt every emotion, every moment of the day flood through her, leaving her breathless. She pulled back, horn sore from the rush of emotions that flowed through it.

“So?” Frederick asked.

“Well done,” Luna said, catching her breath, “You met the father.”

“Twilight’s father... what happened?”

“He hit you, that’s what happened and why you are here, however you managed to get here without me letting you in.” She looked around, as if examining the area, “oh well.”

“Do you know what’s happening now?” Frederick asked.

“I do not, your memories only last until you fell unconscious. I will go to the house, heal and wake you. Maybe I can calm them down.”

“Alright, be quick. I have stuff to ask.”

“I know.”

___

Frederick woke up again, this time feeling groggy and tired. He felt a hoof on his hand and gripped it. Opening his eyes, he saw Twilight sleeping with in the chair next to the sofa, she was hunched over.

With a smile on his face, he looked around the room, only to freeze up at the sight of two angry stallions glaring at him. The three mares next to them made him calm down though.

Princess Luna, a pink mare he had never seen before and what he could only guess as Twilight’s mother were standing there with unreadable expressions on their faces.

Frederick coughed, the two stallions tensed up. Frederick could see the aura around the spear darken slightly before lightening.

“As you can see he is not dangerous. I would have expected you to listen to me, I do know him after all.” Luna spoke, shaking her head. She looked over to Frederick and smiled.

He smiled back and gently rubbed Twilight’s hoof slowly waking her up. “Mm, Frederick?” She mumbled as her eyes opened.

She saw him lying there with a smile on his face and lost it, she leaned forwards and hugged his chest with bone crushing force, bringing a larger smile to Luna’s face.

Twilight’s mother frowned and walked out of the room, while her father simply glared dagger into Frederick.

Shining armour was tempted to charge up a spell but thought better; lest he incur his wife’s wrath.

Cadence place a hoof on her cheek and sighed, looking dreamily at the scene. She was imagining Shining being that loving again; ever since the changeling incident, he had been ever so slightly distant, raising Cadence frustration ever so slowly.

She shook the thoughts away and stepped forwards, “Twilight,” she said.

Twilight reluctantly stopped and turned around, “Yes Cadence?” She asked, a blush developing on her face.

“Can I talk to Frederick, “she turned to the others in the room, “alone?” The others hesitated, but knew better than to get on Cadence’s bad side, especially when it came to Twilight.

“Of course,” Twilight turned to Frederick, “I’m going to talk to mother; will you be okay?”

Frederick nodded, “I’ll be fine, go find her.”

Twilight trotted to the door where her mother walked out and looked back, she didn’t want to leave him, but couldn’t stay for what was going to happen. She walked out and closed the door.

Cadence moved forwards, “Please sit up,” she asked. Frederick did so with a pained expression.

For the first time, he got to see the room properly. The sofa he was on was located directly in the middle of the room. The floor was made out of mahogany, giving that clip-clop sound whenever someone moved.

All of the walls except the front were painted cream, giving the room a bright and spacious feel. Numerous items were laid around on tables and shelves including books: lots of books.

Quite a few pictures were hung up on the back wall. A few that he had seen before, such as the ones in the stained glass windows, plus some new ones like a portrait of Twilight; she looked like she was out of crystal and seemed to simply catch his gaze forever.

“Ahem” Cadence coughed, bringing Frederick back to reality, “How do you know Twilight?” She asked getting straight to the point.

“I, uh... we met a week ago. I saved her life and then she saved mine.” She stated, unwilling to lie to a potential family member.

“I see...” Cadence said, confused. “What happened and why didn’t I hear about it?”

Frederick explained what caused him to become trapped here and the following events to the best of his ability. Cadence stood there listening intently and stopped him once he moved into the library.

“I think I understand, I needed to why you know her,” she took a breath, “I am Princess Cadence, co- ruler of the Crystal Empire.”

“It’s an honour, forgive me if I cannot bow.” Frederick said.

“There’s no need to. I can sense that there’s a connection between you two.”

Frederick’s face tinted ever so slightly red, “I’d say so.”

“But I know so. It’s small, but it’s there.” Cadence said, smiling. Her horn glowed, easing a little bit of Frederick’s pain in his back, plus secretly strengthening his and Twilight’s bond. Normally she wouldn’t do that, but she could see doubt on his face, but could also see an honest pairing; she wouldn’t let that die, not like hers.

“Thank you,” Frederick said, grateful that the lingering pain was gone.

“You’re welcome. Shall we get Twilight back in here?” She asked.

Frederick nodded, “Yeah.”

“Alright, I’ll be back in a second.”

Cadence turned and trotted to the door, opened it and walked through, closing it quickly.

___

Twilight walked into the kitchen, and found her mother sitting at the table. The kitchen was made out of granite worktops, graciously space around with a marble floor. Countless utensils were spread evenly about ready for any pony to start cooking in an instant.

“Mom, are you alright?” Twilight asked, walking over to the table, pulling out a chair and sitting down.

Twilight Velvet sniffed and wiped away a small tear, “How could you do this to us?”

“Do what?” Twilight said, confused.

“Be with that, thing,” she said viciously, turning towards Twilight, “it’s not a pony.”

“That doesn’t make any bucking difference!” Twilight retorted, “Why would you say such a thing?”

“Because it’s true.” Her mother replied, turning away, “it’s disgusting, I bet it only wants to rut you, like an animal.”

Twilights face fumed red, “Screw you, I’ve made my decision. If you can’t accept that...”

“You’re barely an adult, you don’t know what you want,” Velvet interrupted.

Twilight looked on in shock, “I’m twenty two, not a child! I’ve saved every pony multiple times. Do you remember discord, what he made you do?”

Her mother frowned and turned even further away “We don’t talk about that.”

“Good.” Twilight brushed some hair out of her face, “Of all ponies, I would have thought my own mother would be happy for me.”

“Not when I have a Cross breeder for a daughter.” Velvet mumbled a little too loudly. Her eyes widened and she turned to Twilight with regret.

Twilight’s mouth hung open, tears down her face. She wanted to say something, but nothing would come out. Instead she teleported away with an ear-splitting crack; leaving a crackling burn on the granite floor.

The door to the kitchen opened and in walked Cadence, she looked down for a few seconds before looking up at her mother in law, “What the bucking hell did you say to her!?”

___

Luna walked out of the room behind Shining and Night Light. They went outside, to the front of the house. They were still annoyed, but seemed to have calmed down from their murderous glares.

“What was she thinking, choosing something like that?” Shining spoke, much to the anger of Luna.

“I know, didn’t we teach her better?” Night Light said.

“Oh shut up, both of you.” Luna mumbled.

“What was that, Princess?” They both asked.

“I said shut up!” She shouted, causing both of the stallions of back away, “how dare you say such stuff about my friend.”

“Princess, you don’t mean...”

“Yes, he is thy dear friend. We have conversed with him and it turns out splendid every time!”

“But it looks so strange and ugly,” Shining said, instantly regretting it.

“What did you just say, whelp?” She shouted, causing onlookers to back away, “hold your tongue, lest you lose it,” Luna was having a hard time keeping her emotions in order, “you maybe my nieces wife, but you are still one of my subjects.”

“Yes princess,” he bowed.

“Princess, if I may. We are simply looking out for our Twilight.” Night Light spoke up, “We simply want her to be with a pony, not something. What if she wants foals later in life?”

“Then we will help them, we art an Alicorn. There are things you mortals don’t understand.” She whispered menacingly.

Night Light swallowed, “Please, think of her future. If she stays with him, she’s throwing it away,” he begged.”

“We will not listen to you anymore. We suggest you don’t see her for some time. I doubt you are family to her,” Luna turned to Shining, “you are not mine anymore.”

Luna turned and walked inside. She walked into the living room, “Come Frederick, we are leaving.”

“But I have to wait for Twilight, then talk to her dad,” Frederick said, “I can’t just leave.”

“I don’t think that will happen,” Luna replied, “They are not happy with us.”

Cadence pushed open the door, hard and walked in to the room, “It’s bad, Twilight teleported away.”

Frederick stood up, “Where did she go?” He demanded.

Luna looked to Cadence, “Well?”

“I don’t know any tracking spells.” Cadence said, looking down.

“Good thing I do then.” Luna stated, charging her horn. The room was lit up by a bright light, once it cleared Luna frowned, “she’s in her old chambers in the castle.”

“Teleport me!” Frederick said, moving closer to Luna, “now.” He looked down at the table and picked up Twilight’s present.

“Frederick, this will hurt, a lot.” Luna replied, looking at his hand.

“I don’t care. Do, it, now.” He said, anger in his voice. Luna had never seen him like this, but knew he wouldn’t do anything stupid; or at least she thought he wouldn’t.

She charged her horn up and placed it on his chest. Cadence shot one last spell at him, just for good measure and with a blood curdling crack, he was gone.

Chapter 12

This time, Frederick didn’t feel as sick as the other time he teleported. Maybe it was his body getting used to it, or it could be the fact that Twilight was most likely an emotion wreck at that very moment and needed his help.

He looked around. He had ended up just beside a set of stone stairs inside a spacious tower. Looking up, he noticed that it didn’t seem that high.

Rushing up the stairs, his breathing steadily increased as the pain in his hand did. Soon he had to stop; he gripped his hand and breathed in and out heavily.

Doing the only thing he could, he closed his eyes and focused on the pain, willing it away. After a few tries with the pain refusing to budge, he lashed out, punching the stone wall and nearly passing out from the pain.

Out of nowhere, he heard sobbing. “Twilight...” Frederick said, forcing himself to take step after step up the stairs.

By the time he had made it to the top, his body had been pushed to the limit. His vision was beginning to fail, blackening around the edges and pushing his chances low.

The pain in his hand had become excruciating, and he had begun lose feeling in it. He let his hand fall to his side, only supporting himself with his good hand.

His body had sweat through his clothes, causing him to remove his suit top and shoes, letting them fall back down.

He fell to the wall beside the door and heard Twilight sobbing on the other side; it was breaking his heart. “Twilight!” Frederick forced out, coughing afterwards.

The sobbing stopped, “Why are you here!” She shouted back through the door.

“I’m,” he paused, “here for you!”

“Why, didn’t you talk to my parents?” She said maliciously, “I’m sure they told you I’m a horrible pony!”

“What, no I didn’t!” The pain in his hand had vanished, leaving an empty feeling where anything should be; despite that, it didn’t worry him, he was going to be there for Twilight, as long as she needed. “I came straight here, Luna teleported me!”

“She did... are you okay?” She asked, concern apparent in her voice.

Frederick looked to his hand, it was giving off white a large amount of light and didn’t seem to be stopping, “Oh yeah, I’m fine. Just a bit nauseous. Nothing to worry about.”

“Good...” he could hear Twilight move towards the door. She turned the lock and opened it.

Frederick watched as Twilight opened the door. His expression dropped at what he saw. Her mane was in complete disarray, her eyes were puffy and tears were streaming down her face. The worst part was her horn, it was slightly cracked down the middle and looked extremely painful.

“Oh Twilight!” Frederick said, forcing himself up and rushing over. He levitated her from the floor, ignoring the pain and rushed in. He located a sofa and laid her on it. “Why didn’t you let me help?” He asked, looking her over for any other signs of injury

“My mother, she’s disowned me...” Twilight mumbled, turning towards the back of the sofa. She sniffled and let out a few sobs.

Frederick place a hand on her shoulder. He didn’t have any experience with this sort of thing, but he was determined to be here for her.

“I’m sure she didn’t mean it,” he whispered, stroking her mane back into place. It was slowly becoming harder and harder to focus.

“You didn’t see her face, it was one of denial.” Twilight started shaking, “she called me, she called me a, cross breeder,” she whispered, curling up and grabbing a hold of her tail, stroking it slowly.

Frederick didn’t know what to say, so instead he used the last of his willpower to pull himself up onto the sofa and wrap an arm around Twilight, before losing consciousness.

Twilight pulled his arm across and held onto it. She opened her eyes and gasped at the sight of Frederick’s hand. She turned over, “Frederick?” No response, “Frederick!” She shouted.

Twilight rose and pulled him to the centre of the sofa. She tried looking for a pulse, but couldn’t find one. Panicking she tried using her horn, but nearly passed out from the pain.

Vision blurry, she stepped off the couch and breathed deep, screaming in pain, she summoned a scroll and pencil. She scribbled down her location and with another scream she sent it away to Celestia, just before dropping to the ground.

___

Celestia sat in the waiting room of the police station and sighed. It had been a couple of hours and no pony had come to talk to her. Normally, she would demand somepony, but this was a delicate matter that involved the noble class and if she needed to be patient, she would be.

She looked around for what seemed the millionth time and stood up. She was going to ask where somepony is before she gets angry.

She opened the door and walked out. No pony was in the station; they had forgotten her. Celestia’s eye twitched and she felt her mane grow warmer, but calmed herself, she knew it wasn’t good to get so worked up over petty stuff.

“I guess I’ll show myself out,” she mumbled as she charged up a teleport to her chambers for a bottle or three of wine.

Just before she could, a scroll materialised in front of her, blackened and singed. Celestia opened it and gasped, instantly changing her destination to Twilight’s old tower.

Celestia teleported away with a crack that shattered the stone under hoof, instantly teleporting to the tower. She shook her head to find Twilight on the floor, bleeding out of her horn and Frederick on the sofa.

Celestia rushed over and checked on Twilight, who tried pushing her away, “Twilight stop!” Celestia begged, holding her legs down with magic.

“No pulse!” Twilight mumbled, looking over to Frederick; she was starting to become delirious from the blood loss.

Hearing this, Celestia looked over to Frederick and saw his chest unmoving. Fearing the worst, she levitated him over and next to Twilight, who took a hold of his hand.

“Alright, I have to Teleport us all to the hospital, are you ready!?” Celestia shouted. Instantly, she charged up the spell, not waiting for an answer.

The three of them landed inside the hospital, on the third floor. The amount to magic displacing the air and blowing out a wall.

Ponies around the area ran and screamed, leaving the floor. The only ones left were a few doctors and nurses.

The smoke cleared and they saw Celestia in a small crater, covering Frederick and Twilight. Small pieces of debris falling on top of her. She looked up and screamed, “Help us!”

The doctors rushed forwards and helped the Princess up and out of the crater. She pushed them off and growled at them, “Help them, not me!” She walked over to an empty room and ripped two beds out, levitating them over.

The doctors moved them onto the beds and started CPR for Frederick and an examination for Twilight. Celestia could only stand and watch as the ponies worked, on her student and her colt friend.

Celestia felt something well up inside her. She felt scared for the first time in centuries, deep to her stomach; she didn’t like it at all.

Staring at the doctors, she summoned a scroll and started writing:

"I need you sister."

She sent the scroll directly to Luna and waited. The crack of a teleport told her that Luna had received it.

”Dear sister, what happened!” Luna shouted as she raced over. Celestia turned and embraced Luna, gripping her tighter than expected.

Celestia pushed her face into her sister’s fur and sobbed; releasing untold amounts of pain and misery.

“Shh...” Luna whispered, stroking Celestia’s mane. She looked over to the doctors and her eyes widened as she saw Frederick unconscious and being worked on by a full team.

Twilight didn’t look as bad, but the crack in her horn caused Luna to shiver; she didn’t want to imagine the pain.

“Sister, dear sister.” She whispered, “You need to get checked out, you are injured.”

“No, not until they are okay...” Celestia refused, gripping tighter as her tears stained her sister’s coat.

Luna sighed, “They will be alright, and I will personally oversee their treatment plans.”

“You will?” Celestia asked, moving her tear soaked face away. She looked into her sisters eyes, “thank you.” She cried.

“Shh, let’s find you a room.” Luna helped her sister up and let her lean on her as they walked down the hallway. They found an empty room and walked in. Luna helped Celestia into bed and wrapped her up, taking care not to hurt her further. “Now, I expect you to sleep, while I help.”

Celestia nodded, too mentally fatigued to do anything else.

“Good.” Luna sighed and rushed out of the room, leaving Celestia to fall asleep.

Luna ran up to the doctors and used her magic to check the pulse of Frederick: nothing. “How long?” She asked, panicking slightly.

“Hard to say, possibly too long,” one of the doctors replied, scanning Frederick’s body, “his entire body is contaminated with magic. It’s stopping our healing spells from working.”

Luna went over all the possible ways he could have been contaminated and came out to one explanation, she did it. Guilt filled her, she shook her head and felt sick; she shouldn’t have teleported him, she knew it would turn out bad.

She focused her determination and begun funnelling the magic from his body, she knew there was only one shot at this. She focused her Alicorn magic, her mane lighting up with images of supernovae and galaxies. Her wings expanded behind her, brushing up against the doctors, moving them out of the way gently.

Her horn’s light grew darker and darker, until it looked like pure obsidian, small specks of gold flowing around it. At its peak, small tendrils of light started flowing from Frederick’s hand; up and away, straight into Luna’s horn.

She grimaced, not used to the human magic that was mixed in with her own and her sisters. It felt colder than a ponies, almost unnatural in form.

“Start your spells!” She screamed as the flow neared its climax and cut off. The doctors scrambled and filled him up with the required spells.

Frederick’s body shook on the bed as the colour returned to his face. One doctor felt his pulse return and inserted an IV into his arm. Another doctor scanned him, “his magic is returning, how he is holding it in?”

Luna started and absorbed the magic again. This went on for the next hour; the doctors would slowly heal him, then Luna would absorb the excess magic, again and again.

“He will not die...” she promised herself, a tear dripping from her face as pain enveloped her body; she was nearing her limit for magic.

Thankfully, the doctors decided that he could be called stable and slowed their spells. “Princess, I think we’ve done all we can do, “One doctor said, moving to her side.

Luna’s horn died down and she slumped to the floor in exhaustion, “Will he live?” She asked, leaning on the bed. She placed a hoof over Frederick’s hand, gripping it tightly.

“We believe so,” he replied. He looked the Princess over, “now, please go to a bed and get some rest!” He ordered.

“I want to be in the same room,” Luna asked, receiving a nod in return, she smiled.

She got up slowly and received help from some nurses and was moved into a nearby room. She was helped into bed and almost instantly fell to sleep; for the first time in eons, a dreamless sleep.

___

Twilight opened her eyes and immediately regretted it. “What did I drink last night...” she slurred as her head rolled back and forth.

“Whoa there, take it easy. You’re pretty drugged up.” A rough voice laughed beside her bed, “Here,” it said, placing a straw into her mouth.

Twilight sucked, feeling instantly better from the cool water flowing down her throat. She tried focusing on the location of the voice, but everything looked like big blobs and she only felt frustrated.

“The nurse said you’d be pretty out of it for a while.” A different voice said this time. More refined.

“Oh, I hope she gets better...” A soft voice this time.

Twilight felt like she knew them, but couldn’t focus enough to really figure it out; either way she didn’t care and closed her eyes and went back to sleep.

She opened her eyes again, this time she could see a bit better and figured out it was night time. No pony was in the room, but she could hear a commotion from outside her room and turned her head slowly to check it out.

She could just about make out a large amount of ponies like up, looking into room next to hers. She couldn’t hear what they were saying, but it didn’t sound nice.

The opened and in walked, what looked to be a nurse. She trotted up to the bed and checked her chart, “Ah Twilight Sparkle. I’ve got you down for hourly doses. This might feel weird.” She used her magic to turn a dial, releasing some liquid into an IV that was connected to Twilights leg, knocking her out.

___

Celestia was woke up by her door being pushed open quite rudely. She turned over, rubbing her fur to remove her dried tears; she found Prince Blueblood standing in the doorway with a small selection of nobles frowning behind him.

“I thought we made ourselves clear aunty.” Blueblood whined, “We didn’t want that thing in our city.”

Celestia winced at his grating voice and found her stress returning at an accelerated rate. “Blueblood, now is no-”

“Prince Blueblood, aunty.” He interrupted.

She clenched her teeth, “Now is not the time, come back sometime in the week.”

“No, we want that abomination killed or banished. We don’t mind, as long as it isn’t near us.” He demanded, stomping his manicured hoof to add emphasis to his point.

“That’s enough!” Celestia screamed, using her royal Canterlot voice. Blueblood was thrown backwards and into the wall.

He looked up in a daze and saw Celestia lower herself out of bed, the sheets smoking as her mane and tail touched them.

“We have had enough of you and your kind,” she shouted, abandoning her Canterlot voice. “You are nothing to us, mortal!”

“Aunt-”

“Silence!” She shouted, “You do not have the privilege to talk in my presence anymore.” She moves forwards, mane and tail igniting. “You are no longer a prince; I have served your ancestors, I have no more debt to them.”

Blueblood’s eyes widened, “You can’t be serious. I’m looking out for this city from filth like that!” He retorted, snorting.

“I am deadly serious, you have shown no respect for your Princess, insulted a dear friend of mine and made a mockery of your ancestors; I hope they have more pity on you than me.” She frowned and leaned in to whisper, “get out now, or you will see me angry.”

Blueblood whimpered and rushed out of the room, “You will regret this!” He shouted from down the hall.

Celestia rolled her eyes and turned to the other nobles who stood there with their mouths open, “Leave, or be banished from my country!”

They stumbled over each other to get away, hurting each other in the process.

Celestia slumped down and let her wings fall to her sides. She sighed and let out a small giggle, the full blown laughter, “Wow...” she thought to herself as she calmed down.

Eventually, she rose from the floor and shook herself off. She turned to the bed and grimaced at the state of the burnt sheets. “Nurse!” She called.

A few seconds later, a shaking mare walked into the room. She looked over at the Princess and gulped “Yes ma’am?”

Celestia could see she was nervous of her recent outburst, “It’s alright, what’s your name?”

The nurse bowed low and said, “Helping Hoof, ma’am.”

“Helping Hoof, pretty name. There’s no need to bow, please.” The princess held a hoof under Helping’s chin and lifted her out of the bow.

“No need to be so nervous, I promise I won’t shout at you. That pony wouldn’t stop being a foal.” Celestia smiled softly at Helping Hoof and receive a small smile back.

“I’ll try, ma’am.”

“Great!” Celestia turned to her bed, “I’m afraid I made a mess of the bed, sorry.”

“It’s alright, ma’am. It happens,” Helping said, walking over to the bed. She began to remove the sheets, trying to avoid any parts that would flake off onto the floor.

“I’ll check up on Frederick and Twilight, is that alright?” Celestia asked.

“It should be, ask the desk outside and they will take you to them.” Helping Hoof replied, turning to the Princess.

“Thank you,” Celestia said, walking out of the room. She saw the desk and trotted over. A number of nurses were working behind it and went wide eyes as soon as they saw her.

“Hi, can you direct me to Twilight Sparkle’s room?” Celestia asked as nicely as possible.

“I-it’s over t-there.” One of the nurses stuttered, pointing to the room next to Celestia’s.

“Thank you!” Celestia said, walking over to the room. She looked through the window and felt scared. She saw Twilight hooked up to various wires and machine; none of which Celestia knew anything about.

She opened the door and rushed over to Twilight’s side gripping her hoof. “Please be alright...” Celestia chanted as quietly as possible, trying not to wake her up.

She waited there for a good chunk of time before Twilight groaned and turned her head. Celestia sat up in the chair she was in and leaned forwards.

Twilight opened her eyes and smiled, “Princess, you’re here, how wonderful.” Twilight laughed and rolled her head about, seeming almost drunk.

She stopped and faced the princess, “Is that idiot alright?” Twilight asked, confusing the princess.

“Idiot, whom do you mean?”

“Freddy, he’s stupid,” she laughed, “he came after me. Stupid, stupid, stupid.” She stopped laughing shook her head and started crying, “I’m a cross breeder!” Shad shouted, covering her face with her hooves.

The princess looked at Twilight in shock, “Why would you say that!”

“Because it’s true!” Twilight cried harder, “mother said so and she disowned me!” She choked out, tears dripping down her face.

“That little hor-” Celestia coughed, “listen to me, Twilight.” She turned to Celestia, still crying, “don’t ever call yourself that again, you are degrading yourself.” Celestia stared into Twilights eyes, “your mother isn’t the epitome of cleanliness, she’s had her fair share of species,” Celestia whispered.

The door to the room opened and the same nurse from before walked in, “Oh Princess, I didn’t expect you in here...”

“I was just talking with my student, go ahead and start.”

“Alright, but I have to sedate her for now.”

“Why?” Celestia asked, turning to the nurse.

“She’s been deemed a threat to herself. She keeps trying to use magic and break her horn.” The nurse said, looking down.

“But she...” Celestia started, but was interrupted by alarm sirens coming from the machines behind her. They were lit up with warning signs indicating that Twilight was charging her magic. In bed, Twilight was trying to pull the wires out of her body; her horn lit up with blood red magic.

“Move!” The nurse ordered. Celestia moved out of the way and watched as a couple of orderlies rushed in and held Twilight down. The nurse moved over to the side and used her magic to turn the dial and sedate Twilight.

The nurse turned to the Princess, who stood there in shock, “We have to do it every hour, I’m sorry.” She said and walked out.

Twilight’s body went limp and the orderlies released her and left the room. Celestia stood there, not fully understanding the whole situation.

She slowly turned and walked out of the room in a daze. She looked down the hall and wandered in that direction, not focusing on anything in particular.

She came across the room where Frederick was being monitored and walked in. He was linked up to a much higher amount of machines than Twilight and had various fluids entering his body.

Celestia turned and saw her sister sleeping in a bed on the other side of the room. She lazily walked over and poked her awake.

“Sister how art thou?” Luna asked. Seeing the faraway look on Celestia’s face, Luna scooted over and let her sister into bed.

Celestia got into bed and was wrapped in Luna’s embrace. She slowly fell asleep as Luna helped her have pleasant dreams.

Author's Notes:

Wow, this one was strange to write. I hope you enjoy it, I know I did when I wrote it.

Pm me any suggestions, enjoy!

Chapter 13

Frederick felt numb. It was like someone had hit him with a shock rune, then repeatedly hit him with a war hammer; in short, he wasn’t feeling peachy.

First, his sense of smell returned, “Alright,” he sniffed the air, “Disinfectant and linoleum, I’m in a hospital, or a morgue.” He thought to himself.

What seemed like minutes, but could have been hours, his hearing returned. The sounds of ponies hoof steps echoed throughout the room, causing slight discomfort.

Getting frustrated he still couldn’t move, he tried focusing on some of the sounds, to get a picture of where he was. He focused in on some ponies talking and figured out they were in the same room as him. They were whispering, obviously trying not to wake him up.

They sounded familiar and he strained himself to hear them properly.

“When do you think he’ll wake up?”

“I don’t know Luna, when he’s ready I guess.”

“Oh, the princesses...” he thought, “Why are they in the hospital?”

Suddenly, Frederick could feel his body again; he wished he couldn’t. The pain was immense, infinitely worse than what teleportation could do to him. His body felt like it was melting from the inside out. Unfortunately, he couldn’t scream or move, meaning he had to silently take it; only an elevation in his heartbeat signalled anything happening on the monitor.

A few hours passed with no changes. To pass the time Frederick would remind himself how to rebuild his machine, mentally tinkering with the design to streamline the process. Whenever he would have another flair of pain, it would always be less than before and soon enough he was barely feeling anything at all.

Then the rest of his function returned. He opened his eyes and was greeted with darkness. “Oh great, I’m blind...” he though, before he turned and smiled when he saw the corridor light, “thank you...”

Slowly, Frederick leaned up and reached a sitting position. He noticed all of the wires sticking out of his body and traced them back to the machines. To him they looked intimidating; Alaria didn’t have any technology like this and he didn’t even want to try and understand it, let alone fiddle with it.

Looking down, he pulled the covers back and saw that this time, the hospital had put a gown on him, “most likely Twilight asked for me...” he smiled at the thought of her and fluffed a pillow up, move f it back so he could lean up.

Frederick looked around the room. It was more furnished than his last hospital stay, with books, chairs, tables and another bed, “aw, they let Twilight sleep here,” he mumbled, looking it over.

Frederick watched as a small colt walked past the room. He stopped, coughed and carried on past, dragging his IV stand alongside him.

Frederick looked away and saw a jug of water and a glass. Not able to get out of bed, he saw no option than to use his magic to levitate them over. Sighing, he faces the glass and summoned his aura around the glass. Surprisingly, he found it easier than ever, plus it didn’t feel as numb as before; in face it was quite warm, like the heat on a summer’s day.

Confused, he levitated the glass over and tried picking up the jug. While heavier it didn’t seem to bother him and a few seconds later he was holding both objects.

He poured out some water and levitated the jug back over to its table. Taking a sip, he sighed in relief and downed the whole thing.

He levitated the glass back over and laid back, “Ok, so my magic is stronger, why?” He muttered under his breath. Reaching out, he plucked a book from the shelf and examined the new feeling of his magic. It seemed to alternate between the feeling of a summers day and a spring night.

“The only ponies to touch me with magic are the princesses...” he rolled his eyes, “they both teleported me, they must have affected my magic,” he pulled a few more books of the shelf and soon enough he was levitating four of them in the air, when he used to be able to do two at most, “not that I’m complaining...” he mumbled.

He placed them back on the shelf and frowned. He wanted to see Twilight, to know if she was alright, but didn’t know if he was allowed out of bed. Soon the urge to see her was too tempting and he pulled the wires out, causing alarms to blare from the machines behind him. He looked back in shock and quickly got out of bed.

He heard some ponies running outside and froze when a small group turned the corner and stopped, “You’re awake!” One of the group shouted.

Frederick rolled his eyes, “Yes, now I want to see Twilight,” he asked.

One pony stepped forwards, “I am Dr Heart Beat, please return to your bed until we can determine you can move about without injuring yourself.” This pony was wearing a white doctors coat had a brown mane with a green coat. He wore a pair of spectacles on his nose and was unicorn.

Frederick had the idea of simply ramming past him, but that wouldn’t be the best move considering the pony was a unicorn and could render him in pain within seconds, plus it wouldn’t be a nice thing to do...

“Alright, but I want to see her straight after.”

“I will allow it for a short time,” the doctor replied, pleased that it worked.

Frederick got back into bed and covered himself up, “So doc, how long was I out?”

“Nearly three days,” Heart Beat replied, “It’s a Luna damned miracle you’re alive.”

“How so?” Frederick asked, turning to face Heart Beat.

“Princess Celestia teleported in with you and Miss Twilight, made a damn crater in the hallway, you didn’t have a pulse and we all thought you were going to stay dead...” Heart coughed, “anyway, Princess Luna siphoned off the magic that was stopping us from healing... whatever happened to you. You are the luckiest creature ever, seriously.”

“Yeah, I guess I am,” Frederick replied, smiling.

“Well, I better check if you can see your mare friend.” Heartbeat moves closer and pulled out his stethoscope. He brought it up and checked Frederick’s chest, “breath in,” he waited, “and out.”

Frederick waited patiently as Heart Beat completed his tests. After about ten minutes, the doctor moved away.

“Well, your luck doesn’t run out. You are pretty healthy after coming back from the dead,” he chuckled.

“Gee thanks doc,” Frederick said, rolling his eyes.

“Anyway, I can officially say,” he paused, “you can walk about.”

“Good, now take me to Twilight, please,” he asked, getting out of bed and checking to see if he was decent.

“Alright, but I have to warn you, she’s been sedated quite recently. If she wakes up, she’ll be groggy for a bit, then we’ll have to sedate her again.”

“Why, what happened to her?” Frederick asked, suddenly worrying that Twilight was in a worse condition than he thought.

“She become violent if she’s awake too long. We’ve tried to calm her down, but we can only do so much, maybe you can help her.” Heart Beat suggested, trotting to the door, “let’s go, we won’t have much time before she wakes up.”

Frederick followed him to the door and around the corner, “We’ve had to keep you in a separate ward, the patients didn’t feel safe with you there, sorry.” Heart Beat said, looking back at Frederick with an apologetic expression.

“Its fine, I’m used to it by now...” Frederick replied, shrugging, “I guess ponies don’t like change.”

Heart Beat shook his head, “Tell me about it, I try and hell my patients and they don’t like the new ways I do things.”

The pair walked down the corridor until they reached a set of double doors, “Alright, this is the ward where we are keeping Miss Sparkle, it has other ponies in it, and so don’t be alarmed if they get scared, a lot of them are in serious condition.”

“I’ll be fine, just take me to her, please.”

“Okay.” Heart Beat pushed the door open and walked through, followed by Frederick. Some of the ponies looked over and gasped, whispering to others about him, but otherwise just stood there and glared.

They walked down the corridor and stopped outside one of the doors, “This is her room,” Heart said, checking the chart attached to the door, “she was sedated forty minutes ago. She should wake up soon.”

Frederick looked into the room and saw Twilight hooked up to the machines and gripped the windowsill, “How long will you keep doing it?”

“We’re not sure, we’ve been monitoring her each time she wakes up. We’ll stop once she does.”

“What’s your opinion?” Frederick asked, looking into Heart’s eyes.

Heart looked away and gulped, “We’re not allowed to say.”

“Please, I need to know. This is all over my head, she’s all I have...”

Heart Beat sighed, “The way I see it, we can’t do this forever; she’ll have to come off sedation. Once that happens, if she doesn’t stop hurting herself, she’ll be moved to a more secure facility; no pony wants that.”

Frederick felt his breath catch, “You mean a psych ward?” He checked out, feeling tears start to well up.

“Unfortunately, yes.”

“How long until that is chosen?”

“Maybe another week, hard to say.” Heart Beat said, looking into the room. “I’m sorry, but I have to go; I have other patients to check up on. I’ll be back later to see you.” Frederick nodded and watched as Heart walked away and disappeared through a set of doors.

Turning to face the door, he pushed the whispering of the ponies out of his head and grabbed the handle. With a deep breath, he turned it and opened the door, walking in.

Frederick levitated a chair over and sat down next to Twilight’s side. He held her hoof and waited for any sign of her waking up.

He leaned back, keeping a hold of Twilight’s hoof and closed his eyes for second. “Why did this happen.” He thought to himself.

About ten minutes passed before any sign occurred. Twilight grimaced and turned over, waking Frederick up. He leaned forwards and gripped her hoof with both hands, stroking her coat.

“Twilight, I’m here,” he whispered.

She turned to him and opened her eyes. They sparkled when she saw him, “Hey... you’re alive.” She mumbled, just loud enough for him to hear.

“Yeah, I woke up a little while ago, how are you feeling?” He asked, looking her over.

“My head hurts,” she said, her expression turning sad, “I’m sorry. You got hurt because of me. I’m so stupid.” She laughed, “Silly Twilight.”

“No, I didn’t. I knew the risks and would do it again.” Frederick replied, cupping her cheek, “understand?”

Twilight nodded, “My horn hurts...” she muttered, with a faraway look.

“I know,” Frederick said, stroking her cheek, “try and sleep. It’ll get better.”

She nodded and turned over, closing her eyes. Frederick continued to hold her hoof as she lay there; the only company being the heart monitors beep.

A few minutes later, the nurse walked in, looked at Frederick with surprise and checked the time, “Is she asleep?” She asked.

“Shh,” he motioned, “she just nodded off.” He whispered.

“Oh, I guess I won’t need to sedate her this time; we’ll keep monitoring her though.” She looked back at Frederick, “I’ll ask to have you moved in here, and maybe it’ll help more.”

Frederick nodded and the nurse walked out with a spring in her step. He turned back to Twilight and leaned back; he would help her through this, even if it killed him.

___

Celestia paces around her chambers, her anger rising, “Why would they do this?” She asked.

“You know our subjects, they freak out at the tiniest thing they don’t understand,” Luna replied. She removed herself from the bed and walked over. She placed a hoof on Celestia’s shoulder, stopping her pacing.

“Yeah, I know. But it doesn’t make it right.”

“No, it doesn’t. At least Cadence was understanding,” Luna said, “she actually tried to help.”

“Good, Twilight will need her.” Celestia looked away and walked over to her desk, “I will speak with her family; it’s simply disgraceful.”

“Are you sure that’s a good idea?” Luna asked, “Maybe you’re taking this a bit too hard?”

“A bit too hard?” Celestia questioned, turning around to look at Luna, “sister, they called her a... Cross breeder and disowned her. She doesn’t deserve it!”

“I know, but we are rulers we don’t get the right to meddle in private pony affairs. I learnt that the hard way.”

“This is different,” Celestia retorted, “this is Twilight.”

“What’s that got to do with it? You never did this with Star swirl.” Luna said, “What’s going on, sister.”

“I, I’ve been feeling... protective of her lately, more than usual.” She said, looking away.

“Oh.”

“Indeed, I think I’m ready for one.”

“Now? Isn’t it too early?” Luna asked.

“Yes Celestia replied, “anyway, I have to talk to Shining Armour, his actions are unacceptable for a pony in his position.”

“Do you want me to come with you, I was there.” Luna asked.

“That won’t be necessary, I doubt he’d lie to me, especially with his wife there.” Celestia said.

“Very well, I await your return.”

Celestia teleported out of the room, leaving Luna alone.

She warped outside the Sparkle household and sighed. Walking to the door, she knocked using her magic and waited for a reply. It came in the form of Twilight Velvet “Princess, what have we the honour?”

“I need to talk to your son, is he in?” Celestia said, barely disguising her malice for the mare.

“Uh, yes. Let me fetch him,” she walked inside for a few seconds and Shining walked to the door.

“Princess,” he bowed, “it’s good to see you. What brings you here?”

“You do, or more specifically your actions against one of my subjects.”

“I’m sorry, I don’t know what you mean, and what pony do you mean?” He asked, causing Celestia’s anger to rise; thankfully she kept it simmering under the surface, unwilling to let it boil, lest she actually hurt this foal.

“Frederick, the human. He is my subject and friend to both of your princesses. Your actions against him are unacceptable for somepony in your position. Therefore, you will be demoted back down to private and stripped of your medals.”

“Are you bucking kidding me? That thing is rutting my sister and you punish me! She’s the cross-”

“Say it and you will be sterilized!” Celestia shouted, “Twilight has earn the right to date who she wants to. Let me remind you that you rutted an insect for a while; you are in no position to say anything.”

Shining looked away, a blush appearing on his face, “It’s no way for a mare to act.” he said, defiantly staring into Celestia’s eyes.

“Really, your mother didn’t think to when she dated a gryphon, or dare I say, a dragon for a while. It was talk of the town.”

“You lie!” He shouted, “She didn’t!” He said, gritting his teeth.

“Maybe, ask her yourself.” Celestia smiled, “you will report for duty after a suspension, a week should do it. One more buck up and not even your wife will be able to save you. Celestia said, leaning down, “your family isn’t welcome at the castle anymore.”

Celestia leaned back, giving a satisfied grin and teleported away, leaving Shining Armour standing on the doorstep seething with anger.

___

Twilight opened her eyes and turned to check if Frederick was still here. She smiled when she felt his hand hover her hoof and sighed with content as she turned her whole body to face him.

She leaned down and kissed his hand, gently waking him up, “Frederick,” she whispered, nudging his hand.

“Huh,” he jumped, “oh Twilight, you’re up.” He said, leaning forwards, “how do you feel?”

“Better,” she smiled, “My headaches gone...”

“That’s great, soon you’ll be out of here and back in Ponyville,” Frederick grinned, “Luna came by earlier, she stayed for a while, but had duties to see to. She thought it best not to wake you.”

“That’s ok, it’s for the best...” Twilight said. She looked over towards the window and sighed.

“What’s on your mind?” Frederick asked, rubbing her hoof.

“Have my family come by to see me?” She asked, knowing the answer already.

“I’m afraid not. Only Luna and your friends have.”

“I see,” Twilight looked back at Frederick, “I’ve lost them, they don’t want me as their family now.”

“They don’t deserve you then,” Frederick said, moving his chair closer to the bed, “I saw the way they looked at me. It’s my fault they did this, none of this is on you.”

“No, I made the decision to kiss you and start this,” she replied, frowning, “I can’t believe mother said such things...” she trailed off, the words not needing to be said again.

Frederick nodded, he knew all too well what family members can say to each other in anger; his father’s brother had almost broken apart the family, all over a business deal that went wrong, they haven’t spoken in over twenty years.

A comfortable silence descended over the room, Twilight grimaced and moved over, making room for Frederick on the bed. Taking the hint, he got up and laid down next to her, placing an arm around her midsection and pulling her in.

“Guess what happened to me this morning?” Frederick asked.

“Hmm, you haven’t kissed me, so nothing?” She grinned and breathed deep as his lips touched hers. Her eyes fluttered closed as a warmth spread across her body. Leaning into the kiss, she moaned slightly and her face blushed crimson.

Frederick reluctantly leaned back to catch his breath and saw Twilight slowly open her eyes; he felt entranced at that moment, unwilling to let that beauty go from his memory, lest he lose his mind.

“Not such a bad day after all,” Twilight whispered as she inhaled.

“Not at all, but you guessed wrong...” Frederick said, leaning in to whisper, “My magic grew stronger,” he grinned, “I would like you to teach me magic.”

Twilight’s eyes flew open and she looked away, “I don’t think I’ll be the best teacher, she replied, looking up at her horn.

“I didn’t mean right now. When you’re better, we could try it out, despite not being able to use them, I did research a little magic back on my world; otherwise I wouldn’t be able to use any.”

Twilight thought about it for a second, before nodding, “Alright!” She said, receiving a kiss on the lips in return.

“I knew you’d go for it, you can’t resist a challenge.”

“You don’t know everything about me mister, maybe I don’t.” Twilight replied, raising an eyebrow.

“Well then, I had better start studying up on you, hard.”

“I look forward to it,” she grinned, leaning in for a kiss.

___

Fluttershy looked at the clock on the wall for the fifth time in a minute and whimpered, “Shouldn’t she be out by now?” She asked the group. Receiving nothing my annoyed looks she retreated back into her mane.

Fluttershy, Rainbow, Rarity, Applejack and Pinkie sat in the waiting room. They had been called to the hospital by the Princesses themselves.

They had all been picked up by royal carriage and brought to the landing pad on the roof, then escorted down to where they were.

“Patience, my little ponies,” Celestia spoke as she entered the room, “you will see them shortly, it has been a trying day for every pony.”

“Princess,” the group said, bowing.

“Please, do not bow at this time,” Celestia said, “Follow me, I’ll take you to them.”

The group nodded and followed the Princess out of the room. They saw that all the corridors that they walked down were completely empty.

“Where’s all the ponies?” Rarity whispered to Applejack, who shrugged. Rarity rolled her eyes and stared ahead, deciding not to get into an argument.

“How is Frederick?” Pinkie asked, hopping beside Celestia.

She turned to Pinkie and smiled, “He’s doing well, and he was released a few days ago.”

“And he stayed here?”

“Indeed, he wouldn’t leave Twilight’s side.” Celestia grinned, much to the confusion of the group, “Ah, we’re here!”

The princess stopped outside Twilight’s room and turned to the group, “They will be a bit delicate for the next few weeks, Twilight especially so; she went through things I’ve not the right to say." Celestas turned the handle and opened the door.

The group walk into the room and rush over to Twilight’s bed. She was laying on the outside of the covers asleep, star swirls book on her chest; her leg occasionally kicking out.

“Awl, she looks so cute like that...” Fluttershy mumbled, with a rosy face.

“I know right,” Frederick agreed, turning his chair with magic to face the girls. They jumped back surprised by his presence, “Hey, I guess you heard Twilight is leaving today?”

“Yes indeed,” Pinkie replied, grinning her signature smile.

“It shouldn’t be too long, her horn needs to be tested one last time and then we can go.”

“It looked bad before,” Rarity grimaced, rubbing her horn.

“It was,” Frederick said, “but it’s over now. We just want to put it behind us.”

“Darn right,” Applejack said.

“What I want to know is, why didn’t any of you come to see me?” Frederick asked, leaning forwards.

The group looked to each other and started sweating under his gaze. After half a minute Frederick leaned back and laughed, “There’s no hard feelings, you came and saw Twilight that’s more than enough for me.”

The group wiped their collective brows and sighed, “Why did you stay? The hospital let you leave?” Pinkie asked bouncing up to him.

“Well I couldn’t just leave her here, plus the food is delicious,” he grinned and turned to Twilight, then leaned over and poked her side, “Hey it’s time to get up.”

The girls looked between Frederick and the now awake Twilight. “Hey, what gives?” Twilight shouted, pushing his hand away. She noticed her friends and clammed up, “Hi girls, what brings you here?”

“We heard you were leaving and wanted to help,” Rarity replied, “I hope that’s ok. It’s a bit selfish to only let Frederick help.”

Twilight and Frederick turned to each other and grinned, “I guess it is, sorry girls. I couldn’t resist her charm when she asked...” he trailed off.

“What?” Applejack asked.

“Girls, I have an announcement,” Frederick said moving onto the bed. “Twilight and I are dating.”

Twilight hesitantly looked between Frederick and the girls with a look of uncertainty; she didn’t know how this would turn out and it would likely break her if they reacted the same way as her family.

The girls looked to each other and then to Twilight’s hoof that rested on top of Frederick’s palm.

“Congratulations!” Pinkie shouted, throwing confetti into the air, “I’m so happy right now, I could burst into treats!”

Twilight’s smile grew with that and she turned to the rest.

“I think it’s awfully romantic, you are a very lucky mare,” Rarity winked, causing Twilight to blush and look away.

“I hope you will be happy together...” Fluttershy said smiling.

“About time you found somepony, I was beginning to think you likes mares,” Applejack said, grinning.

“That’s cool, I guess. Just your own alien colt friend!” Rainbow shouted, “seriously though, congrats.”

Twilight couldn’t be happier, her friends had accepted her decision. She wrapped her legs around Frederick and was pulled into his embrace. The girls saw this and echoed, “Awe.”

Twilight pulled away and blushed, “Girls, please,” she groaned.

“Oh please Twilight, you should enjoy it,” Rarity said, “Girls, we should give them some privacy before we leave.”

The group agreed and left the room, leaving Twilight and Frederick alone. “At last,” Twilight sighed.

“I thought they would never leave,” Frederick said, using his magic to close and lock the door and flip the blinds. He then picked up Twilight in his magic and flipped her on her back.

She squealed and grinned, “Oh yes,” she moaned as Frederick pressed his lips against her own. She writhed in pleasure as his hands trailed up her side.

Frederick pulled away for breath and stared down into Twilight’s eyes, “how did I get so lucky?” He asked, whispering.

Twilight stroked her hoof against Frederick’s chest, “I don’t know, I ask that every day.”

He reached up and cupped Twilights cheek, rubbing his thumb against her coat, “Are you sure you want to leave, we can stay another night to be sure?”

Twi looked away, “I need to get back to Ponyville, too many bad memories here now...”

“Alright,” Frederick said, kissing her on the cheek, “let’s go, they are probably worried about us,” he grinned.

Twilight hit him on the arm and slid out from under him. She caught a sneaky glance at his behind and blushed. She turned to the door, gripped the handle with her hoof and opened it.

Frederick followed Twilight out of the room after picking up his jacket. “Has the doctor arrived yet?” He asked walking out.

“Hello Frederick, I take it you’re well?” Hear Beat asked.

“Very, thank you,” Frederick replied, “How about you?”

“Can’t complain to be honest, lots of patients.” He said, smiling, “I’ve been told to handle your discharge papers.”

“Great,” Twilight said, “I’d really like to go home.”

“Of course, please follow me.” The pair followed Heart Beat down the corridor and towards the nurse’s station. He stopped and asked, “Twilight Sparkle’s discharge form please,” to one of the nurses that passed it over to him. Turning around he levitated a pencil and the form over to Twilight, “Please fill this in and you will be free to go.” Heart turned to look at Frederick, “Can I talk to you for a moment?”

“Sure,” Frederick looked down at Twilight, “I’ll be right back.”

She nodded and walked over to a chair then sat down; scribbling away at the form.

“What do you need?” Frederick asked, walking over to Heart Beat, who moved out of Twilight’s hearing.

“Twilight will be delicate for a while. I’d advise against anything that would make her uncomfortable, otherwise she might relapse back into violence,” Beat said bluntly. He sighed, “I’m sorry, it’s hard to hear.”

“No, I’ll have to know. I’m willing to do anything to help her recover, you know this,” Frederick replied, looking over to Twilight, “I need her nearly as much...” He mumbled.

“Say again?” Heart asked.

“Nothing, don’t worry about it.” Frederick said, “Anyway, is there anything else I need to know?”

“Yes, you will need to fetch this prescription from the pharmacy on your way out. It’s a cream designed to speed up the healing of her horn; we thought we would be able to use it here, but she recovered faster than expected, you will have to apply it at home.” Heart Beat shrugged, “You won’t have to use it for long, only a week or so, just until her horn has healed.”

“Alright, looks good,” Frederick held his hand out, “Thank you for looking after us, I appreciate it.”

Heart looked at his hand and after a couple of seconds understood. He shook Fredericks hand, “It’s no problem, just doing my job,” He said, humbled.

“If you’re ever in Ponyville, look me up,” Frederick said, releasing Beat’s hoof.

“I’ll make sure I do, it’s been a pleasure Frederick.”

Twilight walked over and passed the form back to Heart Beat, “Done, can we go now?” She asked.

“Yes, this looks to be in order,” Beat replied, “I don’t want to see you in here again, got it?” He said, smiling.

“Oh don’t worry, we won’t be coming back to Canterlot for a while,” Frederick said. Twilight rolled her eyes and nudged Frederick in the leg, “Alright, we have to go, take care of yourself.”

“Will do, bye!” Beat said, watching the two of them walk off down the corridor towards the pharmacy.

Frederick held open the door for Twilight as she walked through, “Ah here they are,” Celestia said, turning towards them, “Took you long enough.”

“Sorry, forms and stuff...” Twilight replied, a slight rosy tint of her face.

“Oh I see...” Celestia whispered, smiling. She walked over and hugged Twilight, pulling her close to her chest, “I’m sorry I didn’t visit more, I’ve had business to attend to.”

Twilight hugged back tightly and nuzzled Celestia’s fur, “I missed you...” She whispered.

“I know. I’ll try and see you more, even in Ponyville. I promise.”

Twilight smiled and pulled back, already missing her warmth, “Where is every pony else?”

“They are waiting on the roof, shall we go?” Celestia asked, turning to Frederick, “Is there anything you need to bring?”

“You can go on ahead, I have to pick up a prescription for Twilight; I won’t be long,” He replied, looking for the sign that pointed towards the pharmacy.

“Alright, come on Twilight.” Celestia turned and walked out of the room, heading for the roof with Twilight close behind.

They walked up the stairs and made it to the room. Celestia held the door open and was hit by a gust of wind, “Be careful Twilight, It’s a bit windy.”

Twilight walked out and ran over to the chariot, opening the door and jumping in. The rest of the girls were already in and helped her up.

“What kept you?” Dash asked, pulling Twilight into her seat.

“Nothing much, just paperwork,” Twilight laughed, much to the annoyance of the Pegasus.

“Spare me, I don’t need to know,” Rainbow replied.

“Dear,” Rarity said, “How long have you and Frederick been together?” She asked, “I know you weren’t together when you were in Ponyville...”

“We weren’t, there was an accident with some nobles... He got locked up and I confessed in his cell...” Twilight answered, hiding her face.

“Accident, what sort?”

“He was arrested and beaten,” Twilight said, looking down and frowning, “He bought me a present and they thought he stole it.”

Rarity sighed, “So romantic...”

“I guess so. I was scared of losing him...”

The rest of the girls smiled and nodded, “Understandable...” Applejack said, “I can see why, I hope you’re mighty happy with him.”

“Thanks AJ, you don’t know how much you all mean to me...” Twilight said, tears welling in her eyes. She felt a couple drip down her face and wiped them way, “I’m sorry girls, I didn’t want to cry, not today...”

“It’s alright, every pony cries...” Rainbow said, rubbing Twilight’s arm.

Twilight turned and hugged her, “Thank you...”

Author's Notes:

I wasn't sure if I should have continued the chapter, but I felt i ended at nice place.

Chapter 14

The carriage touched down outside the golden oaks library, dust being thrown about by the wheels and causing some nearby ponies to roll their eyes at the show of royalty.

Looking out of the window, Twilight smiled as she gripped the handle of the door and pushed it open. “Home, at last,” she laughed, jumping out. She stumbled a bit, but recovered. “I see Spike hasn’t burnt the place down.”

“Of course dear, I let him stay with me,” Rarity spoke, climbing out next. “I couldn’t let him stay on his own, while you were hurt.”

“Oh thank you Rarity, I owe you one.” Twilight walked over and hugged her, “I’ll make it up to you, I promise.”

“No need, he was as good as gold; keeping Sweetie Belle company while she was here.”

Fluttershy gently hopped out and trotted over, “I’m glad we’re back, would you like some help, Twilight?” She asked, hoping to make herself useful.

“Oh, no. I should be fine, Frederick can help me apply my cream later...” Twilight replied.

Rarity chuckled and looked away, “Not so loud, Twilight.”

“What do you mean?” Twilight asked, though roughly confused.

“Don’t tell me you don’t know...” Rarity said, wide eyed. Receiving a head shake, she raised her eyebrows, “you don’t, wow.”

Twilight huffed, “Don’t know what!” She asked, stomping a hoof.

“Alright, calm down,” Rarity said, waving a hoof. Twilight moved closer and Rarity whispered in her ear, “The cream is for your horn, and what happens when somepony touches your horn?”

“Oh my...” Twilight mumbled, backing off.

“Indeed, I’m sure you’re looking forward to it now,” Rarity said, grinning, “lucky girl.”

“Who’s a lucky girl?” Rainbow asked, floating over. She looked at Rarity, who was grinning, then over to Twilight and put something together, “Oh boy, is Twilight getting some?”

“No!” She shouted, causing Rainbow to recoil slightly.

“Geez, no need to shout, I was only joking,” Dash said, rolling her eyes. “Anyway, what are you girls up to?”

Rarity was the first to respond, “I have to check on Sweetie Belle and then respond to some angry letters. I left my boutique rather fast, once I heard about Twilight.”

“Oh Rare, you didn’t have to,” Twilight said, placing a hoof on her shoulder, “you could have finished your stuff first.”

“Nonsense, you are more important than some dresses,” Rarity replied with such honesty, Twilight leaned in and hugged her.

“Alright, alright,” Dash said, gagging, “enough of the sappy stuff.” She turned to Fluttershy, who was smiling at the scene, “how about you “shy, want to hang out, after Twilight gets settled again?”

“Oh, I’d like that,” she mumbled, looking up at Dash.

Somehow Rainbow heard her and grinned, “Cool, we can see what to do then.”

Applejack walked over, with Frederick in tow. “Feeling better, now you’re home?” She asked Twilight.

“Very, no pony to judge me here,” she replied.

“They did to Zecora...” Fluttershy said, oddly loud. The group turned to her and she hid behind her bangs, “sorry...”

“No, Fluttershy right, there will always be ponies that don’t agree with me; but I won’t mind, as long as I have my family with me. You guys,” Twilight said, looking at each pony in turn, ignoring the fact that Pinkie mysteriously appeared between Rarity and Rainbow, “are my family.”

“Oh Twilight,” they gasped and embraced her. It felt more than a simple hug, it was like a fresh start; where each of them were more closely bonded with each other than before.

“Thank you, every pony. I feel amazing, and not because of the drugs they gave me,” Twilight said.

The group laughed and pulled away, smiling set Twilight, “It’s great to be away from that city... it may have been where I was born, but Ponyville is my home.”

“Darn right,” Applejack agreed.

“Not to break this up, but I think it’s time we go in,” Frederick interjected, looking up, “It’s getting late.”

“I agree,” Rarity declared, “I have to check on Sweetie.”

“Alright, I’ll speak with you later,” Twilight waved goodbye.

“Oh one last thing,” Rarity walked over to Frederick, took his collar in her magic and pulled him down, “Enjoy tonight, her horn is sensitive,” she whispered in his ear.

Frederick frowned and turned his head, “What do you mean?” He asked, whispering back.

Rarity winked and trotted off, “Ta-ta, darling!” She shouted.

“What did she whisper?” Applejack asked.

“Oh, nothing important,” Frederick assured. He looked over to Twilight, “let’s go.”

“Alright. Sorry girls,” she grumbled and rolled her eyes. “Some ponies impatient,” Twilight teased.

“Come on “shy, let’s go before he cries,” Dash laughed, making Frederick pout in annoyance.

“Oh, okay. Bye girls.” Fluttershy looked at Twilight, “I’ll see you soon, Twilight. Bye.” Fluttershy flapped her wings and followed Dash into the air.

“Well, I had better go, can’t leave the cakes waiting forever,” Pinkie rambled, “I’ll make a huge surprise party for you soon.” She stopped and frowned, “oh well, I guess a normal party would do.” Pinkie trotted over to Twilight, “I’m glad you’re better.” She leaned in and whispered, “You are not what your mother called you, believe me.”

Pinkie pulled back and grinned, “Stay happy Twilight!” Then rushed off, leaving a pink strip of light and a confused Twilight behind.

“Well that was strange, but I have to get back to Granny smith, she’s been feeling under the weather lately.”

“Not you too, you should have stayed with her!” Twilight protested, “She’s your gran!”

“Now hold on, she was the one to force me to see you. She said, "you only make true friends once in life, don’t waste it".” Applejack replied. “Now, I better go before I get emotional I’ll talk to you soon, Twi.”

Applejack turned to Frederick, he leaned down and she whispered, “You better take care of her, otherwise you won’t have any apples left after I’m finished...”

Frederick nodded and leaned back up. Smiling, Applejack trotted off towards her farm.

“Note to self, don’t mess with Applejack...” he thought to himself, before looking at the library. “Home sweet home,” he said, walking with Twilight towards the door.

He pulled the key out of his jacket unlocked the door and pushed it open. Twilight walked in and took a deep breath, “We’re finally home...” she sang out as she trotted over to a bookcase and hugged it.

“Do you need a minute alone?” Frederick teased, pulling Star swirls book out of his inside pocket.

“OH, I know where that can go!” Twilight gasped and rushed over. Frederick passed it over and she ran upstairs and into her room.

Twilight trotted over to her desk and placed it neatly in the middle, making sure no clutter touched it. “Perfect,” she sighed. She returned to Frederick who was leaning back in a chair, levitating some books around.

“I can see why you would want to use this all the time, its fun,” he remarked, placing the books back onto their shelves.

“It’s not fun,” Twilight said, rolling her eyes, “It’s a tool that all unicorns learn, it shouldn’t be used for games.”

“Alright, it’s not fun...” Frederick grinned, looking at Twilight.

“W-what’s that look for?” She asked, backing away, not sure what he was thinking.

Frederick reached out with his magic and held Twilight in place, she tried pulling away, but couldn’t. Her eyes darted around as she begun to panic.

He used a tiny sliver of magic to tickle Twilight in the sides, causing her to shake and laugh, her panic forgotten.

“Enough, I yield!” She shouted with glee. Unfortunately for her, Frederick didn’t. Instead he got up from his chair and walked over, preferring to use his hands instead.

“No, no!” She laughed, squirming in his grasp. He let his magical grip dissipate and held her on the floor; staring into her eyes as her breathing slowed down.

“Ok, that was a little fun,” she whispered, “but I know something even better.”

“Oh yeah, what?” Frederick asked, leaning closer.

“This.” Twilight wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed. Their mouths intertwining.

Reluctantly, Frederick pulled back, leaving a disappointed mare behind, “This would be better if it wasn’t on the floor.”

Twilight nodded and started getting up.

“Oh no, let me,” Frederick said, picking her up in his arms, using a little magic to help. He walked up the stairs and into Twilight’s room. He had to scan the room and found the bed.

He walked over and placed a blushing Twilight down. He took his shoes off and climbed onto the bed, laying down. Twilight crawled on top of him and leaned down.

They carried on where they left off with their arms caressing each other’s bodies, barely able to contain themselves.

Frederick stroked Twilight’s thigh, making her moan and kiss more passionately. He pushed back and soon asked for entry with his tongue.

Slowly, Twilight let him in. She was hesitant, but found it enjoyable and found herself wrestling for control.

She pulled back for air and smiled down at Frederick. “I can’t believe this is real,” she chuckled, leaning down to rest her head on his chest.

___

The hard clicking of hooves was the only indicator that somepony was out in the blistering cold. He tightened his fur coat around his body some more and looked about; turning his head frantically to search for spies or thieves.

Turning down a narrow side passage, he levitated out a small slip of paper. Reading the words that was hastily scribbled down; he nodded and looked up to find himself in front of a wrought iron fence.

The pony tried to look past it, to see if any pony was waiting for him; but some sort of magic discouraged that and he felt the urge to walk away. Steeling his nerves, he took one last glance that the words and shouted, “Retribution is a right!”

He stood there, waiting. The silence that followed made him felt like he was the last pony in Equestria; he might have well been for all the luck he had.

A quiet squeak came out of nowhere, assaulting his ears with its horrid sound; it rose in pitch until the stallion was holding his ears, convinced they were going to burst.

The ringing stopped and the fence blew open with a sudden gust of wind, tossing him on his face and throwing his coat over his body, obscuring his sight.

Scrambling, the pony lifted it back over his head and stared into the darkness, waiting and hoping that this was a good thing.

As he stared, the only sound that accompanied the inky blackness was the wind tumbling through the passageway, seemingly as if the darkness was swallowing the very air around him.

Picking himself up and moving his coat back, the pony huffed and brushed himself off; his white coat coming under attack by grim and dirt.

“Hello!?” He squeaked out, now though roughly scared. On top of that, his knees hurt and he was getting a bit chilly; he wasn’t used to this weather.

Stepping forwards, he noticed that the magic that kept him at bay had vanished, letting him move freely without that horrid feeling of dread, it was a relief and told him that the information had been correct. Well, that and the fact he wasn’t vaporised instantly.

He took a tentative step, again testing if it was truly safe. Once convinced he wasn’t going to die, he grinned and began to walk into the void, feeling a small amount of magic wash over him as his coat disappeared, leaving him naked.

He looked back with shock; that was his favourite coat. But nevertheless, he could replace it a thousand times by the end of this; not that he’d plan to, he could do so much better.

Walking further into the darkness, he saw the cobble vanish leaving only the black of night behind. Deciding to try and ignore the rising feeling of vertigo, he stared forwards focusing on one non-existent point in the distance.

The pony walked for what seemed days, yet nothing turns up. He turned his head to look behind him and saw the passage way had only moved a few yards away. Now scared beyond belief, he galloped back to the entryway and looked about.

“This can’t be happening!” He said, swallowing his fear.

“Oh, but it is,” Another voice rang out, smooth as silk. The sound caressed the pony’s senses, making him calm and relaxed. “I know why you’re here...”

“You do?”

“Yes, little pony,” it chuckled, “you have been wronged and wish for revenge, do you not?” The voice sounded like it had moved closer, yet there was no pony else in the passageway.

“I have,” the stallion nodded, “that whorse, Celestia.”

“Ah, dear old Celestia,” the voice echoed, “She always did have a fire I couldn’t put out...” It sounded nostalgic than anything else, but soon enough it carried on, “You want revenge, I can give it to you; I can help you achieve her ruin.”

“What do you want?” The pony asked, looking down at the ground.

“I don’t want anything,” the voice said, disgusted. “What I need is are the Elements of Harmony, they made me like this, forced me out of a body, forced me to watch as pony kind became dribbling foals,” the scoffed, “bring them to me and you will have everything you need to punish Celestia for her actions.”

“I shall,” the stallion replied, bowing. His horn just touching the cobble under hoof.

___

Luna stood waiting for her sister by the entrance of their private garden. Looking about, she huffed, “Hurry up, Celle...”

The sound of flapping relaxed Luna and she looked over to where Celestia had landed. Walking over, she asked, “What took you so long?”

“Duties sister, that’s all we ever do nowadays,” Celestia groaned as she stretched, her limbs popping.

Luna grimaced at the sounds. “Well, we’re alone now. I wanted to talk to you about your problem, I know how to help.” Luna was nervous, she was about to suggest something that would be frowned upon by some ponies and simply not understood by the rest.

“Oh,” Celestia said, taken aback for a second, not expecting that. “Go on?”

“Well, I guess I could help, by carrying it for you...”

Celestia’s eyes flew open, “You’re not suggesting?”

“Yes,” Luna squeaked, looking away, “that is if you want me to, I don’t see any other way; Cadence isn’t old enough to try anyway.”

Celestia sat down on the grass, “Dear sister, I would be honoured if you would do that for me,” Celestia opened her legs out and embraced her sister, wrapping her up in her wings, “you have no idea how much this means.”

“Would you do the same for me?” Luna asked, “When the time arrives?”

“I will, I promise,” Celestia replied then kissed her sister on the forehead, “I love you, Lulu.”

___

Twilight sat up in bed and sighed with boredom. She had been given orders to stay in bed and rest by Frederick, who was now downstairs cleaning, of washing, of Celestia knows what.

She didn’t like sitting around doing nothing, she’d been doing that in hospital; now was the time she could actually help.

The sound of footsteps sounded from below. They increased in strength as Frederick neared her room. He pushed the door open, revealing himself.

Twilight blushed and looked away from his bare chest, “What do you need?” She asked, stealing a few sneaky glances.

“You,” Frederick replied, making Twilight turn to him.

“Me?” She asked, her heartbeat increasing; she knew what he wanted and she wanted to give it to him, over and over again.

Frederick walked forwards, slipping his shoes off and kicking them across the floor. He stopped just short of the bed, his trousers fading away like magic.

Twilight couldn’t help but have her eyes drawn to the sizable bulge in his underwear. She looked back up to his face and found herself being lowered onto her back, his strong hands gripping her fur as he stared into her eyes.

“Frederick...” she sighed, savouring each second like it was keeping her alive, “take me.”

“I will, Miss Twilight.” He leaned forwards and kissed her, the same electricity flowing through their bodies, forcing them together, making their worlds collapse until only they remained.

Frederick’s underwear disappeared, letting his manhood fall free. Twilight gasped as she felt it on her stomach, “oh...” she moaned, reaching down to feel it.

She wasn’t experienced, but she liked what she held. Her breathing quickened as Frederick moved his hand up her inner thigh and around her mare hood.

“Fred, uh, Frederick.”

“Mhm?”

“Rut me like a cross breeder!” She shouted in glee.

Twilight Sparkle woke up in a cold sweat. She turned over, unwilling to get out of bed, just in case she ran into Frederick. Twilight curled up, holding her tail and began stroking it, “mother was right, I am one...” she muttered as she started sobbing into her pillow.

Author's Notes:

Ohhh spooky. I wonder who the mystery pony is.

I guess you will have to stay tuned for more.

Chapter 15

Frederick paced around his room. Twilight was acting strange and not answering her door when he tried to knock. “Did I do something?” He asked himself, tapping his foot on the floor. He looked outside and saw it was getting near midday. Picking up his jacket, he stepped out of his room and across the hall, stopping outside Twilight’s for one last go at talking to her.

Tapping on the wood, he waited a few seconds for any sign of movement, then said, “Twilight, I’m going to go out to pick Spike up. I’ll buy some food on the way back, send Spike a letter if you are feeling better.” He hesitated but ultimately turned and descended the stairs, looking back once he made it to the ground floor.

Sighing, Frederick walked over to the door and left the library, locking it afterwards. He didn’t know what to do, but knew that doing nothing would hurt her in the long run.

Walking through town, he noticed it was slightly colder than usual and buttoned up his jacket. He passed the shops, ponies waving to him as he passed by. “Almost like I’ve always lived here,” he mumbled.

Rarity’s boutique came into view and he picked up his pacing. Quickly, he made it to the door and knocked, opening it. “Rarity, just me!” He announced, cleaning his shoes on the mat and closing the door.

Rarity strolled down the stairs, “Oh hello dear, come to pick up Spike?”

“Yeah, I was thinking of spending some time with him today. It’s been a while since I’ve spent some time with a guy.”

“Don’t tell me you’re unhappy with our company?” Rarity asked, faking annoyance.

“Oh no,” he laughed. “I just need a change, that’s all. Besides, I’ve really only spent a lot of time with Twilight,” he shrugged, “maybe I could hang out with you. How about tomorrow?”

“I think that would be splendid!” Rarity nodded, smiling. “I should be done dealing with angry nobbled by then and I can get a well-deserved rest.”

“Hey Rare, where do you want this fabric?” Spike asked, walking into the room.

“Oh, not now Spike,” Rarity whispered, levitating the roll of fabric away into the other room. “Frederick is here.”

Spike looked over, “What’s up Frederick, how are you feeling?” The drake asked, walking over.

“I’ve been better. Still, It’s good to be home,” he replied. “I’ve come to pick you up, Twilight is at the library.”

“Awl, but I was helping Rarity...” Spike whined.

“Really, Twilight was hurt, badly,” Frederick said, looking down.

“Alright... sorry.”

“Good, is there anything you need to bring?”

“No,” Spike returned to Rarity and hugged her, “thank you for taking me in.”

“Think nothing of it Spikey, I couldn’t let you stay alone.” Rarity replied, humbly.

“Thanks again Rare,” Frederick said, opening the door. Spike ran out, followed by Frederick, “don’t forget about tomorrow.”

“Bye!” Rarity shouted as the door shut.

___

The pair walked away from the boutique and down towards Ponyville, Frederick lifted Spike up and onto his shoulder.

“So, how is Twilight?” Spike asked, concerned. He moved around, getting comfortable on Frederick’s shoulder.

“Easy up there, you’re not small,” he chuckled. “Twilight is... okay now. She was a bit strange this morning, but made a fast recovery.”

“Good, I don’t know what I’d do without her.”

“Yeah,” Frederick said, sighing. He knew he would have to tell Spike about getting together with Twilight, but he felt nervous; he wasn’t sure how Spike would take the news.

“Hey Spike, how about we grab some shakes,” Frederick suggested, changing his path towards Sugarcube corner.

“Cool,” Spike replied.

Frederick pushed open the door to Sugarcube corner with his magic and walked in. He saw Pinkie Pie taking an order across the room and sat down on one of the tables next to the window, Spike sitting opposite to him.

A few minutes later, Pinkie hopped over and hugged Frederick, “It’s so good to see you, how are you?”

He laughed, “Hi Pinkie, I’m feeling alright.” Frederick was released from the Pink demon’s grip, “I see you’re in a good mood.”

“Silly, I’m always in a good mood. Now, what can I get you?”

“Can I get a strawberry shake please,” Frederick asked. He looked at Spike, “Spike?”

“Oh, can I get a chocolate one please, with gem dust on top.”

“Sure, I’ll get them for you now.” Pinkie said, hopping away.

“So, how was Rarities?” Frederick asked. “Do anything fun?”

“Heck yes,” Spike beamed, “Sweetie is really fun to play with.”

“Sweetie?” Frederick said, confused, and “is that Rarity’s sister?”

“Yup, she knows the best games, for a girl...” Spike continued, “I didn’t think I would enjoy it, but I did.”

“That’s good,” Frederick hesitated, “Hey Spike, I have something to tell you.”

“What is it?” Spike’s thoughts turned to fear “Did somepony steal my gems?”

“What, no!” Frederick groaned, “Nobody stole your gems. It’s about Twilight and I.”

“Oh good, what about you two?”

“We are... together,” Frederick gave a sheepish smile, unsure how this will play out.

“Of course you are, you live with her...” Spike replied, tilting his head.

“I mean, we are dating.”

“Oh,” Spike said, finally understanding. “How long?”

Frederick was surprised, there was no anger, no confusion and defiantly no fire. “Little under a week. Are you okay with this, you can say, I don’t be angry.”

“I’m just happy she’s found somepony, at least it’s you and not some rich foal from Canterlot.” Spike admitted, a small smile on his face, “Just don’t hurt her, alright.”

“I wouldn’t dream of it.”

Pinkie trotted over and placed the shakes in front of them. “On the house, it’s the least I can do for you looking after my sister.”

“Sister?” Frederick replied.

“Twilight, we’re her family remember,” she giggled, hopping away.

___

Princess Celestia sat on her throne reading a series of letter from her private advisors, “Rubbish, apologising to Blueblood; who do they think I am?”

“Princess, we have a situation!” A guard shouted up to her. He was out of breath and had scratches and dent marks over his armour.

“What happened?!” Celestia asked, gliding down, she landed in front of the pony and helped him steady. She looked him over and finding no wounds on his body stepped back.

“There’s somepony in the Element vault, he broke the spell in seconds,” the guard choked out, still catching his breath.

“Alright, go to the infirmary, I’ll deal with the intruder.” Celestia ordered, “Guards, with me!”

“Yes Princess!” The guards in the room shouted, marching over to her.

She made her way to the Elements vault, picking up some more guards, “better to be safe than sorry, especially after chrysalis...” she thought to herself as she turned the corner.

She pushed aside the wreck that was once the solid oak doors and walked in. On the other side of the room stood the intruder, facing away from the entrance.

He took a step forwards as his ear swirled around, hearing Celestia enter. “How nice of you to join me, But I’m afraid I have to take my leave. I so would have liked to chat about recent decisions.”

The intruder turns around, his body covered in a thick cloak, hiding his coat and mane from view. On his face, he wore a blank mask and it was obvious to any pony that heard him, that his voice was magically altered.

“Who are you!?” Celestia shouted as the stallion summoned up a portal on a nearby wall. She stared at it in shock; it had been forever since she had seen magic like that. It’s black border threatening to swallow the wall around it.

“Now now, Celestia. That would spoil the ending, we can’t have that, can we?” He mused, walking over to the portal, “I’ll play a little game with you, and see if you can figure this riddle out before I make my next move!” He shouted.

“His family melted under your rule, you will feel the chill of death.

Only so long can your sun keep the darkness at bay, in time even light can be turned.”

The stallion laughed, “I bid you a nice and warm evening Celestia, it’s about to be the last one for a long time!” He jumped into the portal, sealing it off behind him.

Celestia ran over and felt the wall, “Cold as ice...” she mumbled, as she turned to her guards, “why didn’t you do something!” She shouted, causing them to back away slowly.

“I don’t know Princess, I felt scared...” One of the guards said, with other agreeing.

“Very well,” Celestia said rubbing the side of her head, “I want my city searched, I want the elements back,” she ordered, “and get me some coffee.”

She walked out of the room and made her way to her private chambers. Opening the door, she jumped slightly at the sight of Luna resting on her bed.

“Dear sister, how nice of you to join us.” Luna sang. “How was day court?”

“The elements were stolen,” Celestia said, walking over to her desk, levitating the cup of coffee with her.

“Wait, seriously?” Luna asked, rising from the bed and walking over.

“Yeah.” Celestia took a sip, “seems as if we have somepony that wants to play a game with me.”

“You mean us?”

“I don’t think so, he didn’t mention you and seemed to know something about recent events; it makes me think Blueblood, but he was never like this and I know Shining Armour wouldn’t do this, especially with Cadence with him.”

“Do you want me to question Blueblood?” Luna asked, “I can make him talk.” She said, with a small grin.

“Lulu, please. This isn’t the dark ages anymore, that’s been banned for hundreds of years... besides we have more efficient methods.” Celestia laughed.

Luna shook her head, “Alright, I get it. I’m old fashioned,” she pouted.

“Come on, it’s not old fashioned. We saved that for the worst criminals, remember.”

“Yeah.” Luna held Celestia’s hoof, “I was thinking, before the theft, that we could try that thing today?”

“Today, isn’t it a bit fast?” Celestia asked.

“Maybe, but you said it yourself, you are feeling maternal already. Besides Mother was always telling us to embrace it once it happens.” Luna leaned forwards and kissed Celestia, “maybe we should embrace it.”

___

Twilight pulled the covers of herself, feeling relief from the heat of the bed. She turned over and stared at the door; on one hoof she missed Frederick and he had only been gone for an hour or two, on the other, she felt dirty for liking a different species.

Of course, none of it even mattered before that dream, heck it didn’t matter that much after her mother kicked her in heart. But now, she was beginning to have doubts.

It was the first time she had a dream like that. Twilight was still a virgin, mainly due to her love of books and the surprising lack of stallions around Ponyville. Not that it bothered her before, but now, all these strange feelings were occurring.

Needing to take her mind off them, she rose out of bed. She felt her horn ache and sighed, she would need Frederick to help her; hooves just don’t spread cream right.

Twilight really didn’t want that to happen, she wasn’t sure how she would react to him touching her in that place.

She knew this was wrong, she liked Frederick but couldn’t shake the feeling that she wasn’t supposed to. Society would frown upon it, say she’s dirty and unworthy of being a pony. Frederick would stand against it, stand up for her; but in the end Twilight didn’t know if she could handle it herself.

Pulling her door open, she walked slowly out, listening for any pony, specifically Frederick. When it was clear no pony was in the library she trotted downstairs and into the kitchen grabbing an apple.

Taking it back upstairs, she stumbled a little as her horn flared up in pain, “I should have applied it yesterday...” she muttered, wincing from the pain.

The sound of the front door being unlocked made her jump. Her heartbeat increasing with the need to see her colt friend, but also with the same need to avoid him and it was tearing her apart.

“Alright Spike I’ll make your dinner with crushed imp gem dust.” Frederick groaned, “Though I don’t know how you can chew them, they are gems.”

“Because of these bad boys,” Spike said, tapping his razor sharp teeth.

“Wow, never bite me.” Frederick ordered.

“Don’t worry, I won’t; unless you make, me, mad!” Spike shouted, chasing Frederick around the room.

Laughing, Frederick picked up Spike in his magic, “Go upstairs and see Twilight, I’m sure she’ll want to see you.” He placed Spike down and watched as he scampered up the stairs.

A knock on the door sounded out and Frederick walked over, pulling it open. “Oh, hey smart.”

“Don’t "oh hey smart" me, where have you been!?” She shouted, pushing Frederick back into the library with a hoof.

“Calm down, I can explain,” Frederick assured her. She stood there waiting for an explanation, “Come sit down, it’s a long story.”

The pair walked over to the couch and sat down. Frederick explained everything that happened in Canterlot and that they had just arrived back.

Throughout the story, Smart Glass’s expression changed from angry to sad. “I’m sorry, I didn’t know.”

“I know, it’s alright. We just want to put it behind us.”

“I understand, come and find me when you’ve settled back in. We can start when you’re ready.” Smart got up and walked to the door, “tell Twilight I hope she gets better, a cracked horn is horrible.”

“I will, thanks.” Frederick watched Smart leave the library. He locked the door using his magic and got up. He climbed the stairs and walked over to Twilight’s door. He could hear Spike and Twilight talking and he smiled. “At least she’s talking to someone...”

His smile dropped as he made his way into his room and closed the door. Taking his shoes and jacket off he undid the top few buttons of his shirt and laid down on the bed.

He tried to relax, but his thoughts kept returning to Twilight in the next room. “What did I do wrong...” he muttered, rolling off the bed.

An idea sprung into his head, “Maybe I could learn some magic, it could help...” he mumbled, walking out of the room.

Frederick walked back down stairs and into the kitchen. He proceeded to make a cup of tea and levitated it out with him and walked into the library proper. Strolling through the isles, he found the magic themed section and picked out a couple of books that looked interesting.

Sitting down at the table, he flipped the first, "Shields and you: a reference guide", open to the contents page.

Scanning the page, he found a section on personal defence and went to the page.

On the page were lots of formulae, some of which he could read and understand and some Frederick had no idea about. “This is nothing like Alaria’s magic...” he cringed, reading a rather complex formula.

Deciding it was best to try the simple ones first, he memorized one of the smaller formulae and charged up his magic. Standing up, he walked to the centre of the room and cast it out, willing his magic into a hexagonal shield in front of him.

It only lasted a split second before it exploded, knocking him backwards onto the sofa, “Wow, that was intense,” he laughed. Getting back up he felt his hand glow slightly, but not in pain. Instead it was like the glorious ache after exercise.

Steeling his nerves, he cast it again. It lasted for a little longer before dissipating into the air. Now his excitement really took off; sure it was only one hexagonal shape, that wouldn’t stay materialised but he knew it was only the start.

Frederick spent the next couple of hours training his magic until his hand cramped up, then went upstairs carrying the books.

He placed them on the chair in his room and went over to Twilight’s door. Frederick knocked and waited, hoping in vain that Twilight would answer.

Spike had gone out while he was training and had said relatively little in regards to what happened to Twilight.

Frederick heard the lock on her room unlatch and heard Twilight move away from the door. He opened it slowly, not wanting to ruin his chances of seeing her for the first time today.

He peeked his head around the door and saw her sitting on the edge of her bed, the covers thrown onto the floor. She was staring at the floor, where a puddle of tears lay.

Feeling his heart sink at the sight, he moved in and closed the door. “Hey Twi,” he said, moving a little closer, “how are you feeling?”

Twilight sniffed and wiped her eyes with a hoof, “I’m sorry,” she whispered.

“What for? You didn’t do anything.”

“For shutting you out, you are the best thing to happen to me and I treat you like this.” She looked up at Frederick, tears lining her face.

“Oh Twilight,” Frederick said, going over and hugging her. She wrapped her hooved back around and gripped as if he would vanish if she let go even a tiny amount; it showed she really cared, and to Frederick it meant the world.

Twilight pulled back, “I freaked out, there’s so many ponies that will hate us for being together... I couldn’t handle it,” Twilight whispered as a lump formed in her throat.

“Who cares, let them,” Frederick replied defiantly, “if they want to hate us, they will have to go through me first.”

Twilight smiled, she knew he would be like this and felt safer for it; he wouldn’t let her get hurt, not again.

“I’m guessing you’re hungry, I’ll make some dinner and then we can apply your cream, we missed yesterdays.”

Twilight blushed and looked away, “Sure... I’d like that.”

Author's Notes:

Oh no, more of the mysterios pony. His antics are getting worse.

His will he be stopped!

Chapter 16

Twilight sat at the table in the kitchen and watched Frederick cut up some vegetables. He stirred some sauce in a nearby pan with spoon in his magic, making sure it wouldn’t burn.

“What are you making?” Twilight asked, peeking around him, sniffing the aroma.

Picking up some coriander and grinding it up, Frederick turned around and moved Twilight back to her seat, “It’s a surprise.”

She pouted, “I don’t think I want it now...”

Frederick grinned, “More for me then.” He make his way back over and checked on some asparagus he placed in a pan with some mushrooms and onions. He nodded, they were browning nicely.

“What did you do today?” Twilight asked, glancing at Frederick’s behind.

“Oh not much. I picked up Spike from Rarities, then took him to Sugarcube corner for some shakes.” Frederick grinned, “I think the little guy has a crush on Sweetie Belle.”

“What makes you say that,” Twilight said, making sure Spike wasn’t about.

“You should have heard the way he talked about her,” he beamed, moving the vegetables around in the pan with magic. Turning around, Frederick caught Twilight staring and grinned.

She saw this and looked away, coughing. “Spike said you told him about us.”

“Was that alright, did you want to do that?”

“No, it was alright. He didn’t act up I take it?” She asked.

“No actually, he was surprisingly accepting.” Frederick walked over and pulled a plate out of the cupboard and place it onto the table, then placed some cutlery next to it.

He walked back over and drained some pasta. He took a plate and dished out the food, pouring the thick sauce over the top.

He levitated it over to Twilight, who sniffed it. Her eyes lit up, “this smells delicious, I didn’t know you could cook this well...”

“I have plenty of talents you don’t know about. I had to cook when I lived on my own, the produce was cheap in my area, and thus I had access to a lot of good food.” He explained. “I guess it was worth it now,” He said, crossing his arms and leaning against the table.

Twilight nodded, shovelling the food into her mouth. She had been in bed most of the day and was starving; plus the food tasted divine.

“Slow down, I don’t want to call Heart Beat,” Frederick laughed.

Twilight stopped eating, “You’re not eating?”

“Oh no, I had something after I got in; I made this for you.” He said.

Twilight looked at Frederick with gratitude, “You didn’t have to...”

“I know, but I wanted to,” he replied. “Besides, I have to look after you, doctors’ orders,” Frederick grinned.

He turned and began to fill the sink with soap and water. He placed everything he used in and started cleaning.

Twilight swallowed her food, “Leave it, I’ll do that,” she waved.

“You can’t use your magic, remember. Besides, you’re supposed to be resting.”

“If you’re sure...” she said, herself unsure.

“I am. Now, once you finish that, go upstairs and rest,” He ordered.

“Okay, dad.” Twilight laughed, before stopping and shaking her head, “bad joke...” she mumbled.

“Darn!” Frederick groaned, looking down at his wet shirt.

“What happened?” Twilight asked, looking over.

“Just some sauce on my shirt, I can clean it later.”

Twilight put her knife and fork down, pushing the empty plate away from herself and stretched in satisfaction. “That, was, amazing!” She moaned.

“I’m glad, now go and rest. I don’t want to see you out of bed.” Frederick ordered.

Twilight rolled her eyes, “Alright, but I want to go out tomorrow.”

“Sure, Rarity and I are hanging out. You can join us, on whatever she’s got planned.”

“Sounds fun,” Twilight said, walking out of the kitchen and back up to her room. She opened the door and was hit by dejavu. Shaking it off, she jumped up on her bed and looked around, bored.

Frederick finished cleaning everything up and looked at his shirt, “Ruined...” he mumbled and took it off, he laid it out on the table for later and grabbed the tube of cream for Twilight’s horn.

He made his way upstairs and knocked on Twilight’s door. “Hey Twi, do you want me to apply your cream now?” He asked, pushing the door open slowly.

He peeked inside and saw Twilight stare at him in shock. “What’s wrong?” He asked, stepping into the room.

“No...” she whispered, staring at his bare chest.

“Oh, sorry,” Frederick said, “I had to take my shirt off, it was ruined.” He gave a sheepish smile and moved forwards, “shall I come back later?”

Twilight shook her head, “It was only a dream, it won’t happen now,” she thought to herself, trying to stop the erotic images flashing through her head. “Now’s fine, let me get comfortable,” she replied, moving onto her stomach.

Frederick moved onto the bed and pulled Twilight onto his lap. He opened the package and took out the tube. Unscrewing the lid, he squeezed some of the cream onto his fingers and replaced the lid.

“Alright, here we go,” He mumbled. His fingers touched the tip of her horn and he could feel her tense up.

Twilight’s mind was in turmoil, she wanted him to stop and leave, to tell him it wasn’t right. But another part, a more instinctual part told her to let him do it, to take her and make her his.

Twilight’s will was being crushed by the older, more instinctual part and soon found herself rubbing her back legs together, to relieve some of the pressure.

Frederick noticed this and tried to apply the cream quicker, hoping this wouldn’t be remembered as an awkward memory later in life.

Twilight’s face was bright red, she gripped Frederick’s leg and squeezed, feeling the muscled underneath the skin; it was driving her wild and she didn’t know how long she would last.

Frederick looked over her horn and decided that it was covered enough, he picked Twilight up in his magic and moved her back and off his lap.

“Huh,” she blurted out as he got off the bed.

“Sorry Twilight, I don’t think this is a good idea right now,” Frederick explained, moving backwards towards the door, “I’ll see you in the morning.”

“Wait!”

Frederick hesitated, his hand over the handle. There was something about it that made him stop; he so desperately wanted to leave.

“Please sleep in here, I won’t try anything... I promise,” Twilight asked pure sincerity in her voice.

Frederick weighed the options, he had slept in the same bed, but never when she was like this. Would she really try something, she isn’t the type. He nodded and took his hand away from the handle.

Turning away from the door, he looked at Twilight. In that moment, he saw what she was going through; her horn was shining slightly, the cream having been absorbed. Her cheeks were flush and she breathing laboured.

He did this, unintentionally. Frederick felt guilty, he was just going to leave her like this, what sort of man was he?

He paced forwards, kicking off his shoes trousers. Twilight’s eyes widened and she bit her lip, most of her higher thinking taking a back seat now.

Frederick leaned in and kissed her with passion. In this moment it wasn’t about lust, for him it turned into something more a while go; what, he didn’t know.

Twilight wrapped her arms around him, caressing his body, trying to get him closer, to touch more to feel more. Every second and she lost herself to him; he could ask her to do anything and she would, gladly.

Frederick caressed her thigh, running his hand imp and down the inside, teasing her to no end. She tried bucking up but every time she did so, he would move it away.

Twilight somehow got a burst of strength and rolled Frederick onto his back, surprising him. She sat on top of him with a smug grin, “You’re mine now.” She moaned, rubbing herself on his stomach.

She looked down at him, and frowned, “this isn’t right...” she said, getting off him, “I think you should go to your room, it’s too soon for this.” Twilight looked away, trying to keep her composure.

Frederick sighed, “Alright, if you need anything, find me.” He left the bed and gathered his clothes and left the room. Leaving Twilight to herself.

___

Celestia pulled back, “Luna, I’m not sure mother was thinking of this...”

“Of course she was, she knew only Alicorn can give life to Alicorn, and we’re the only ones left who can...” Luna purred, leaning closer, “besides, who would know?”

“Well... I don’t know...” Celestia was on the fence, she knew she would have to make some changes, most notably with her sister, but she didn’t have to like it.

“Alright, we’re going to have to get intimate anyway, we might as well enjoy it,” Luna suggested, “Who knows, maybe you will have twins?”

Celestia smiled, she liked that, twins. “I guess, but it seems strange, I thought I would be ok with it, but now,” she trailed off, not needing to explain.

“I understand, but this is the only way, there’s no more Alicorns, sister.” Luna looked away, sadness showing on her face, “Cadence was... she isn’t like us, she’ll never know the pain of watching every pony die.”

“I know!” Celestia shouted, getting up from her chair, “don’t you think I know that, I had to live with it for all this time; when I sent you away,” Celestia felt a lump in her throat and found it hard to continue, “I thought I would go mad, I had no pony...”

Luna trotted forwards and caught Celestia, who cried into her coat, shaking with each sob. Luna simply sat there, holding her. She knew this was the only way to have offspring and didn’t care what any pony would think; this was her sister and she would die for her if need be.

Eventually, Celestia’s sobs died down and she pulled back, “I’m sorry,” she muttered, coughing into hoof. Luna nuzzled her cheek, licking the tears away, Celestia tensed, but didn’t move away; in fact she found it soothing, after all the years, she might have somepony to finally share them, albeit a bit unconventional.

“How are you feeling?” Luna asked, finishing the other cheek. She noticed Celestia had a rosy tint and was trying to not look at her.

“I’m ok now,” Celestia assured, looking down. She sighed “alright, you win...”

Luna clopped her hooves together and grinned, “I knew you would come around to my way of thinking, I’m surprised all it took was for me to lick you...”

“Well, it won’t work again,” Celestia said, glancing at Luna.

“Oh, it won’t?”

“Oh no.” Celestia backed away as Luna crouched lower to the floor, ready to pounce, “No you don’t!” She screamed as Luna jumped, pinning her underneath. Celestia calmed down as she felt her sisters legs wrap around her neck, “Luna?”

“Shh,” she whispered, “I just want to enjoy this.” Luna laid on top of Celestia and nuzzled her neck taking deep breaths of her scent, “I don’t want to forget this moment.”

“And what is this moment?” Celestia asked, smiling.

“The moment we bonded forever.” Luna kissed Celestia’s neck and nuzzled it, breathing in her intoxicating smell.

___

The intruder jumped through the exit portal laughing. He landed on the floor and levitated off his mask, coughing as the magic disconnected from his voice box. “Ah, that’s better,” he shouted, “la La LA!” He sung, throwing the mask onto a metal table.

“I’m glad you’re having fun, did you get the elements?” The ever present voice asked, obviously excited.

“Of course, how could I not have fun rustling that whorse’s feathers,” he laughed, then threw the bag onto the floor, scattering the elements about.

The voice laughed manically, “At last... they are mine!”

“Whatever, how about you tell me your name?” The stallion asked, chewing on an apple and leaning back on his chair.

“My name you say... alright, you have served me well. My name was lost in time, before my brothers had melted I was known as Chaugron, the cold bringer. Now, no pony knows me, only what I did.”

“What did you do?”

“Excuse me?” The voice asked.

“I can’t see you, meaning I don’t know what you look like... plus you said it yourself, no pony knows you.”

“Yes, I suppose your right. Give me a second.” There was silence for a second, then a large shaking, threatening to bring the building down. The elements glowed red and floated into the air. The aura around then turned darker until they looked like they were nothing more than holes in reality.

Suddenly they fell and clattered against the floor, their gems turned black. The pony scanned the room, “Hey, what did you do?”

“I am free...” a deep rumbling shook the pony to his very core, it filled him with dread; he shouldn’t have looked for revenge.

A crack appeared in front of the table, crushing the stone underneath as a leg materialised from thin air. It slowly grew up and took the form of a pure white horse.

The intruder instantly knew what he had helped and fell backwards. He scrambled back and whimpered as the form grew.

“Say it...” the horse demanded, “you know what I am!”

“W-wendigo...” he stuttered, soiling himself.

The newly formed wendigo looked away in disgust, “Foals.” Summoning a dark portal, he turned and said, “You should go back to Celestia while you still can, she might help you. Because I won’t.” He laughed and trotted through the portal, leaving the stallion behind in a puddle of his own urine.

“Bucking spirits, always the same...”

___

Celestia opened her eyes and stretched. Her hoof bumping into somepony else in her bed. She lifted the cover and saw her sister, curled up next to her; her hoof hanging over Celestia’s stomach.

She thought for a moment and remembered the previous night. “So that really happened...” she mumbled. Slowly she charged her horn and pushed the sun along its course in the sky.

Falling back into her pillow with a poof, she closed her eyes for a second and sighed in relaxation. It was comforting to have somepony else in her bed, especially one she didn’t need to send away straight afterwards.

Though, she found it strange that her sister had actually asked to help. Celestia thought about it, coming to the conclusion that maybe Luna had some deep rooted emotions and only now acted on them, using her as the excuse.

She shook her head, throwing those ideas out; Luna was her sister, she wasn’t going to analyse her like every pony else, she didn’t deserve it.

Celestia felt horrible for thinking like that about her, but habits are habits, thus hard to break; but for Luna, she would be willing to try.

Deciding she was too lonely, being the only one awake in such a large bed, Celestia gently rocked Luna.

She opened her eyes and turned away from the light, “Close the curtains, please,” she asked, holding a hoof ever her eyes.

Celestia closed them, “Sorry, I forgot you’re nocturnal.” She gave an apologetic smile and held out a hoof.

Luna took it and moved up, face to face with her sister; their warm breath on each other’s lips, “I can change,” Luna teased, pressing a hoof to Celestia’s chest, “If you want me to...”

“I couldn’t ask you to give up night court,” she looked into Luna’s eyes, “that wouldn’t be right.”

“No pony goes to it anyway. It’s dead at night, you know this.” Luna confessed, a sadness growing behind her eyes.

“How about we share day court instead, we take it in turns, that way you can meet our subjects and we both get to see each other more,” Celestia suggested, raising an eyebrow.

“You would share it with me, really?”

“Of course, I would have done anyway. It’s just convenient that were bonded now...”

“Oh thank you!” Luna shouted. She leaned forward and kissed Celestia, their lips caressing each other. Luna felt Celestia tense up again and felt a little annoyance, but pushed it down, “she just has to get used to this, mother did...” she thought to herself.

Luna closed her eyes and pushed forwards, adding more passion to the kiss and eventually she felt Celestia relax and push back, “see.”

Author's Notes:

Phew, this was a toughie, keeping the masked stallions identity a secret while giving you all a villian :)

Ain't I nice like that...

Don't forget to like and fave, if you haven't already.

If you have any ideas for the story feel free to pm me. I'm on most of the time :)

Much love!

Chapter 17

“Twilight, are you up?” Frederick asked knocking on her door, “Rarity is here, we have an appointment in the,” he paused. “I can’t believe I’m doing this,” Frederick thought. “Spa,” he finished. Looking rather annoyed at Rarity.

“I’m sorry dear, it’s where I normally go to relax,” she explained. “If you wanted to do something else you could have told me before hoof.” She then got up and stood in front of the door, “Twilight darling, let’s hurry up!”

The sound of hoof-steps on wood sounded through the door and the lock unlatched. Twilight opened the door, but couldn’t bring herself to look at Frederick. Instead she moved towards Rarity and hugged her, “It’s nice of you to let me join.”

“Nonsense dear, you are family,” Rarity beamed as she made her way downstairs with Twilight next to her.

Frederick slowly followed, slightly feeling left out and hurt. He knew Twilight wasn’t angry because he stayed, it was because it was too early in the relationship for that sort of stuff. Frederick only had a rough reservation about the species barrier, but that soon came crashing down when he understood they were as intelligent, sometimes even more so, as Humans.

Eventually the group made it to the entrance of the spa and walked in. The outside looked like any other building on the street. But the inside was a completely different universe.

The walls were painted hot pink, tropical plants were placed around the area, giving the room an exotic feel. Even the chairs looked surprisingly modern.

“Ah, welcome Miss Rarity, I see you have brought guests,” Aloe said, smiling and nodding to Twilight and Frederick.

“Indeed, can I use my loyalty card for them?” Rarity asked, levitating said card out and passing it to Aloe.

“You may, just step on through and we can begin.”

“Come on, let’s relax,” Rarity said, rushing for the divider that lead into the spa.

Frederick followed behind, with Twilight. They walked into the other room in silence. Frederick looked down and opened his mouth to say something, but stopped when he couldn’t make any sound come out.

Twilight’s mind frantically searched for something to say, anything that would distract from the growing awkwardness. It wasn’t like it was her fault last night, she wasn’t thinking straight; it was obvious that it was too early for that, right?

A stylish pair of towels caught her eyes and she blurted out, “White towels,” without thinking. Face hoofing, she shook her head, “Stupid Twilight, that’s not helping,” she chastised herself.

Frederick looked down in confusion, “Are you okay?” He asked, hoping she wouldn’t shout at him.

““-yes,” Twilight replied, quite embarrassed.

Frederick stopped and looked about once they had entered the room. It had the same paint as before, but it was a lot larger. Inside were various massage tables, some already holding ponies, there was a large hot tub in the middle of the room, easily able to hold more than ten ponies and what Frederick guessed was a hooficure table.

Rarity waved her hoof and shouted, “Over here!”

The pair walked over and saw her standing next to a pony that looked like the exact opposite of aloe. “What are we doing first?” Frederick asked, taking a glance at some steam that was flowing from under a nearby door.

“I suggest the Steam Room first, it’s great for your pores,” Rarity grinned, excited about sharing her time with friends, “Oh Twilight, how about you get a hornicure first, then join us.”

“I don’t mind getting one later,” Twilight said, unsure why Rarity would suggest that.

“Don’t argue dear, now go.” Rarity shooed Twilight away and turned to Frederick, “come on darling, we have things to discuss.”

Frowning, Frederick followed Rarity over to the steam room door, “Take your clothes off in there,” she pointed to an adjacent door, “and then meet me inside.” She pushed the door open and walked into the room, the sound of boiling water could be heard.

Frederick pushed the door open, locking it afterwards and proceeded to take his clothes off. He placed them inside a small hole in the wall and took the towel out, wrapping it around his waist; fortunately it was slightly longer than most towels and reached to just below his knees.

Unlocking the door, he turned and went inside the steam room. He scanned the area and found Rarity sitting against the back wall, slightly obscured by the mist.

Other than Rarity, the room was deserted; something that Frederick was thankful for.

Sitting down beside her, Frederick turned and asked, “What was so important that Twilight couldn’t be here?”

“What did you do?” Rarity replied, a slight tone of annoyance evident.

“What do you mean?” Frederick was surprised by the rapid change in her demeanour from nice to accusing.

“You two are not talking. I know Twilight well enough to know she wouldn’t go a day without apologising for something she did; which means you must have done something.”

Frederick sighed, he didn’t want to explain but he couldn’t see a way out; Rarity would say something to her friends and he would be labelled wrong.

“Here’s what happened,” he said, explaining the night before. Rarity’s expression changed from one of annoyance, to romance. Near the end, her expression was surprisingly neutral. “Either she’s had practise at listening to stories like this, or she can relate,” Frederick thought to himself.

“Well, I have to apologise. I got the whole thing wrong, can you forgive me for being so rude?” Rarity asked with an apologetic expression.

“Of course, you were only looking out for Twilight after all,” he said, smiling. “Remember, I would never intentionally hurt her.”

“I know that now, I just thought,” she paused, “never mind.”

Frederick shrugged, “I just don’t know what to say to make it better, and it’s so awkward now.

“I know that feeling,” Rarity mumbled. She placed a hoof on his shoulder, “If I were you, I’d just apologise. Now I know it’s no pony’s fault, just natural chemistry, but trust me when I say it will clear the air and you can move past this.”

“If you say so, she was acting strange yesterday; I think she isn’t sure about us, not as much as I am...”

“She’s had a mixed week, some doubt is natural. I’m surprised you haven’t had any actually,” Rarity replied, tilting her head slightly.

“I did, in the beginning... ponies were asking me about it, before we got together; I would deny and refuse,” Frederick chuckled, “She was so scared, in that cell, how could I not.”

Rarity nodded, “As I said, just apologise.”

“Alright, I’ll have to be alone with her though.”

“No problem, I’ll leave you two alone when she arrives; don’t mess it up,” she warned.

“I don’t plan to.”

A few minutes passed by in relative silence, only the sound of water evaporating echoed inside the room.

Twilight pushed the door open and looked about for Rarity and Frederick. She found them against the back wall and trotted over.

Rarity saw her come in and nodded to Frederick. He nodded back and she stepped down from the wooden bench and past Twilight, giving her a loving smile.

Twilight stopped and turned to see Rarity leave the room, “What did she do?” Twilight though as she trotted up to Frederick, “aren’t you following?” She asked.

“Twi, we have to talk,” Frederick said, tapping the bench next to him.

Twilight hesitated, but sat down. She waited for him to say something, but as the seconds ticked by, her hope was fading.

Frederick coughed into his hand and nodded to himself. He turned and took Twilight’s hoof into his hand, “Twilight, about last night, I’m sorry,” he declared. Carrying on, he looked her in the eyes, “I know now that I should have left; I can’t stand this anymore.”

“No, it was my fault. I lost myself to you, I promised I wouldn’t do anything; I turned into something else and it scared me...”

“Twi,” he held his hand out and cupped her cheek, “can we move on?”

She leaned into his hand and sighed, she loved it when he held her cheek. “I’d like that. I’ll try and not get so, excited, when you touch my horn.”

Frederick glanced to her horn, it looked smoother than usual and just a bit sharper, “I must say, it does look good...” he winked.

Twilight smiled, “They are good here, didn’t scratch it once.”

Frederick nodded, “Shall we go? I’m sure Rarity is waiting for us outside.”

“Okay.”

The pair stepped off the bench and walked side by side out of the room. Twilight weaved her tail around Frederick’s leg, showing other ponies that he was hers and they were together.

Rarity heard the door open and looked over. She saw Twilight’s tail and grinned, her idea worked. She honestly thought he wouldn’t be willing to swallow his pride as a male and apologise. But was, for once, pleasantly wrong.

She trotted over, “I booked the hot tub,” she said, looking up at Frederick, “I hope that’s alright, I know you like your privacy.” Rarity gave a sheepish smile.

“Don’t worry about it,” Frederick replied, placing a hand on Twilight’s withers, “I can control myself around you lovely ladies,” He grinned.

The girls rolled their eyes and moved over to the hot tub. Frederick climbed in first, quickly sliding into the warm water and dropping the towel nearby.

Twilight and Rarity slid in. Twilight close to Frederick, her face blushing slightly from the physical contact.

Rarity sat opposite and relaxed, closing her eyes and dipping under the water. She resurfaced, her hair sticking to her slender frame. Sighing, she opened her eyes and looked at Frederick. “Somepony was looking for you a couple of days ago. Some mare called Smart Glass.”

“Oh, yeah. I saw her yesterday. She was worried we weren’t going to research anymore...”

“Oh good, what are you researching? Is it like Twilight’s research?”

“Uh not really.” Frederick held his hand up, “this, is what I’m doing.”

Rarity grimaced at the flecks of crystal embedded in his hand, “does it hurt?” She asked.

“Not anymore, not since...” he paused, “not anymore, in fact, my ability for magic has gone up.”

“That’s great!” Rarity smiled.

“Indeed, now Twilight can help me learn some spells.”

“Well, I don’t know if I can teach you... I doubt I’d be a good teacher,” Twilight said.

“Of course you will, I know it,” Frederick assured her, “in fact, you can help me with a spell I’m learning now.”

“You started already?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah, yesterday,” he replied with a grin. Frederick remembered the formula for the shield, then cast it in front of him.

Twilight’s eyes widened with glee, “you did this in one day?” She asked, excited.

“Well, a couple of hours. Before cooking you dinner.”

“It’s beautiful,” Rarity complimented, smiling at the two ponies opposite. “I knew they are meant to be,” she thought.

“This is only one, once I’ve practiced, I can make multiple.” Frederick explained as he de-cast the shield.

“I can’t wait to teach you now,” Twilight whispered, leaning in for a kiss.

Pulling back, Frederick smiled. “I hope you will be a fair teacher, Miss Sparkle.”

“Say it again,” Twilight purred, moving closer.

“Miss, Sparkle,” Frederick whispered, his voice deep.

“Ahem,” Rarity coughed, knowing where this would go if not stopped.

The pair pulled away from each other, embarrassment showing. “Sorry Rare,” Twilight apologised, “I got carried away.”

“Yeah, sorry.” Frederick agreed.

“That’s ok, I can relate; in fact I kind of miss losing myself in some ponies eyes,” Rarity sighed with a faraway look.

“Rarity?” Frederick asked, “You ok there?”

She shook her head, “huh, oh yes.” She sighed, “I think it’s time for our massages now.” She stood up and left the hot tub, tying up her hair with a spare mane band.

Twilight and Frederick looked at each other, not needing to really say anything. Twilight kissed him and left the hot tub, allowing Frederick to cover up.

They dried themselves and walked over to the massage tables. There was a red coated, blue mane pony sitting next to the tables. She looked over and stood up. “Three for massages?” She asked, hopeful.

“Yes please, the full works,” Rarity replied, climbing onto the nearest table and laying on her stomach.

Twilight and Frederick did the same. Two other ponies walked over, holding bottles of oil. They walked up to the tables and opened the bottles, spraying the oil onto the group’s backs.

They put the bottles down and rubbed their hooves together. Stepping into a special harness, designed to keep them in place, they reached up and started pushing against their backs.

Frederick didn’t know what to think of this. He thought it would be uncomfortable with their hooves being hard, but this wasn’t; their hooves were as soft as cotton.

They pressed down and he heard a small crack as his back suddenly felt amazing. “Wow, how are you walking with this much stress?” The masseuse asked, kneading his back muscles. She was having a surprisingly hard time, with him being a larger build than a pony.

Frederick laughed, “I got used to it.” He grunted, as the masseuse pushed him back down.

“I suggest you find some way to relax during the week, this much tension isn’t good for you.”

“Noted.”

Twilight looked like she was enjoying herself as her masseuse kneaded her back. She had her eyes closed, with a small smile on her lips.

Frederick stared at her, taking in her features. She opened her eyes and smiled, catching him watching her.

Rarity sighed, content; she was happy for sister, Twilight. But even though she was the element of generosity, she was still a little jealous of them. She hadn’t had a special somepony in almost two years; for her, that amount of time was unacceptable.

The masseuses pulled back, moving the harness down the table and started on every pony’s legs. They felt the muscles and kneaded, loosening them up.

Eventually, they stopped and unclipped the harnesses. “We’re done,” Frederick’s masseuse said.

Frederick nodded and made sure he was covered before leaving the table. He noticed the oil had been absorbed quite quickly, leaving a bronze shine behind on his skin.

The group walked out of the spa feeling relaxed and reinvigorated. Rarity turned to Frederick and Twilight, “It’s been great, but I have orders to complete.”

“Alright, maybe we can meet up again soon,” Frederick replied, leaning down and hugging her.

“I’ll see you soon, take care,” Twilight said, hugging her as well, “sis.”

Rarity beamed, “Tata, for now.”

The pair watched Rarity trot away towards her house. Once out of sight, they started towards the library.

They walked through Ponyville marketplace. Ponies walking past waved and greeted them, their nervousness about Frederick having faded to nothing; some ponies though glared and actively moved away, mumbling obscenities under their breaths. “It feels so good to not have any pony stare at me,” he said, glancing at Twilight, choosing to ignore the others.

“I can imagine, sometimes ponies will stare at me, usually tourists,” she replied, rubbing up against his leg.

They made it to the library and Frederick unlocked the door, holding it open for Twilight. “Thank you,” she said, smiling up at him.

He followed her and sat down on the sofa, sighing as he slowly stretched himself out.

Twilight trotted into the kitchen and clicked the kettle. “What do you want to do, for the rest of the day?” She asked, pouring some milk.

“I was thinking of learning some more magic,” he replied. Frederick turned around and saw Twilight walk slowly out of the kitchen, staring at him. “You alright?” He asked, slightly freaked out at her behaviour.

“Can I teach you?” She asked, her smile growing.

“Uh, well I guess so.” Frederick stood up and went to his room. Twilight watched him return with some books in his hands. “This is the book I used before,” he said, holding it out for her.

“Oh, this one... there should be a new edition around her somewhere.” Twilight trotted over to the section that Frederick took the book from and started to browse the shelves. It took a few minutes but she found it, “here, this one can go back,” she said, taking the old book and placing it back on the shelf.

She turned to Frederick, “Shall we get started?”

“Sure, shall I re-read what I’ve memorised,” he asked, following her back out into their lounge.

“I don’t think that will be necessary, sit down,” she ordered, pointing at the dining table.

Blinking in confusion, Frederick sat at the table and opened the book to the page he was learning. With the book open, he looked up and waited for Twilight to start.

Standing there Twilight thought about the best way to teach him. She thought about how she would teach Rarity a new spell, “I can’t so that...” she muttered, shaking her head; she’d have to show the spell happening and can’t because of her injury.

Getting annoyed at not being having a teaching plan, she turned around and breathed in and out, calming herself down.

Then it came to her, how about she just explain the spell and then help him cast. “Oh Twilight, you are a genius...” she mumbled, rubbing her hooves together.

Frederick sat there watching Twilight talk to herself with slight amusement. He knew it wasn’t right for anyone to do that, but couldn’t criticise because he did it himself.

Twilight turned around and walked over to the chair opposite to Frederick and sat down. “Show me,” she asked.

Frederick brought up the formula in his mind and cast the spell, willing the magic out of his hand. The magic materialised and a small hexagonal construct appeared in the middle of the table. It floated there silently, giving off a bright purple aura.

“Back at the spa, it was multi-coloured,” Twilight stated, “why is it purple now?”

Because, I was thinking of you when I cast it,” Frederick replied, smiling.

Twilight blushed. She coughed into a hoof and said, “Let’s carry on before I need to kiss you.”

Frederick grinned and nodded, “Yes Miss Sparkle.”

“Ok, well... you can change how hard or soft the construct is buy using different parts for the formulae.” Suddenly remembering she didn’t have anything to write on. She got out of her seat and rushed upstairs.

She returned carrying a small blackboard and a pencil.

“Really selling the teacher act I see,” Frederick joked.

“I want to see you after class for a punishment,” Twilight replied with a sly grin. She wrote up the normal formula and turned to Frederick, “Now, you can use this to make the construct harder, though you will use more magic,” she explained while writing up a small formula underneath. “Or you can use this to make it softer.” She wrote up another section and underlined it.

“I want you to try to make it softer,” she said, returning to her seat, “Remember, you don’t add those sections, you replace.”

Frederick nodded and looked at the additional formula sections. He closed his eyes and imagined the original broken up. He then removed one section and replaces it with the one to make .the construct softer.

“Well done!” Twilight shouted, clopping her hooves together. She poked the construct and grinned as it stretched and bent. “You’re a fast learner I see,” she complimented raising an eyebrow.

Sure, the time in the hospital may have increased his magic, but for him to learn this fast meant there should be natural talent in him. If this was the case, Twilight would be over the moon with happiness; she would be able to teach him almost everything she knew.

“Alright now make it harder,” she ordered, hiding her excitement.

Frederick went through the motions again. Opening his eyes, he saw the construct froze in place, not moving when Twilight touched it.

“This is great, now let’s try something harder than the basics...” she said, grinning. She got out of the chair and wrote up a two pieced formula. The first part was longer than the hex one.

Frederick looked at it, then Twilight. “Are you crazy, I can’t do that?”

“Correction, you can’t do it in one go,” she said, nodding her head. “This is what some unicorns call, a slow cast spell.”

“What does that mean?” Frederick asked, slowly reading the spell.

“It means, that instead of what you are doing with the shied, this spell is cast in stages,” Twilight explained. “This spell is an example of a very basic foresight spell.”

“Wait... you have spells that let you see into the future?” He asked, not knowing if he should be scared or amazed, “how come everything hasn’t screwed up?”

“Well, just read the formula. Only certain ponies would even attempt to cast one, it takes that much magic.”

“Have you?”

“Not yet, I haven’t had the time.” Twilight said, shrugging.

Frederick started laughing.

“What’s so funny?” Twilight asked.

“You haven’t had the time... I love how nonchalantly you said that.” He said chuckling.

Twilight rolled her eyes and joined in, laughing as well. “Alright, we won’t try it today... this is your homework.”

“Wait, what?” Frederick asked, as he stopped laughing, fast.

“Yup, you will have a week to learn it.” Twilight gave a sly smile and moved closer. She climbed up onto Frederick’s chair and straddled him, “maybe, I’ll give a reward if you do good...” she purred into his ear, her warm breath giving him shivers.

“Miss Twilight, you are trying to seduce me.” Frederick grinned and leaned forwards, wrapping his arms around her, then picked her up.

“Whoa!” She laughed. As she gripped Frederick’s shoulders with her hooves.

He walked over to the sofa and sat down. He released her and she slid down onto his lap. He sat there, stroking her back and looking in her eyes; he loved those eyes.

“What are you thinking?” Twilight asked as she wrapped her tail around his leg. She leaned in and nuzzled his cheek, feeling more relaxed by the second.

“I want to know you better,” Frederick said. He moved his hand down and held her hooves, giving her a loving look.

“What would you like to know?” Twilight asked, her tail tightening around his leg; letting him know she was enjoying this.

“What was your past like? You said you were born in Canterlot,” he asked. “Why are you living in Ponyville?”

Twilight didn’t say anything for a few seconds, then nodded. “It was three years ago... during the one thousandth summer sun celebration. I read that Nightmare Moon was to return and sent a letter to the Princess.”

“Nightmare Moon?” Frederick asked, not having heard the name before.

“Oh yeah. Princess Luna was banished to the moon for a thousand years because she was jealous of her sister and make it eternal night,” Twilight explained in a sombre tone. She then smiled, “But now, she’s all better because of the Elements of Harmony.”

“Anyway, I sent the letter, but the Princess didn’t seem to believe me, or she was lying... it seems possible. She sent me here to make sure the celebration went smoothly.”

“I met my friends and then, during the celebration, Nightmare Moon showed up.”

Frederick sat there his entire attention spent listening to his mare friend.

Twilight smiled and continued, “My friends and I went into the Everfree forest, fell down a cliff, met a Manticore, a sea serpent and then made it to the castle of the two pony sisters.”

Frederick blinked and noted to ask her about all of that later. “Go on...” he said, squeezing her hooves.

She nodded, “we got inside and didn’t know what to do... then Moon turned up and tried to take the stones that we thought were the Elements.”

“Wait... the Elements are, what exactly?”

“Us, or more specifically by me and my friends are the embodiment of them. Applejack is Honesty, Rainbow Dash is Loyalty, Pinkie Pie is Laughter, Fluttershy is Kindness, Rarity is Generosity and I’m magic.” Twilight beamed, as she waited for Frederick to respond. She hoped it didn’t come off as too egotistical. She didn’t want to freak Frederick out.

He stared at her, his mind processing the new information. “Wow,” he muttered, causing Twilight to laugh. “You’re amazing,” he said, making her blush.

“I’m not that special, I only did what any pony would do.” She mumbled. Her heart fluttering as he said that.

“No, you did that, no one else,” he said, “that sounds pretty amazing to me.”

Twilight blushed, “I guess it was...” she said, before she kissed Frederick. She pulled back and finished the story, explaining how she helped to stop Nightmare and turn her back into Princess Luna.

“Why did you only get a window for essentially saving a Princess?” Frederick asked.

“You saw my parent’s house...”

“Your parents got that?” He said, not believing it.

“Yeah, I asked the Princess to build it for them. We didn’t live in the best place... it was in the lower district.” Twilight explained, a sad look on her face.

“Hey, it’s in the past, no need to dwell on it anymore.” Frederick cupped her cheek and stroked her coat with his thumb, seeing her relax.

“I know.” Twilight sighed, she knew that it was the right thing to do at the time, they were her family. “Let’s talk about something else...”

“Sure,” Frederick nodded. “How about we carry on with our research?” He suggested, looking over to where his tools sat, in the middle of the room, “we have kind of neglected it.”

“I guess we have,” Twilight agreed. She nodded and leaned down. She laid herself on top of Frederick and relaxed. “Should we find Smart Glass and tell Princess Luna?”

“I guess so, unless you think we can do it ourselves, “He shrugged, not really wanting to get up and leave the warmth of Twilight’s body. “We only need to sort out the crystals so that it’s easier to start.”

“I suppose we don’t need them here... maybe we could invite them round for dinner, what do you think?” Twilight pulled back and looked at him, trying to find out his reaction.

Frederick looked at her with a small smirk, “You know, I’m the one that would have to take...” he shook his head when Twilight pouted and ran her hoof over his chest, “fine... but we will need to go shopping, we don’t have any edible food now.”

Twilight grinned and kissed him, “I knew you were the best.”

“I know I am, it’s just nice to hear it from you.”

“Yeah yeah, eat it up,” she joked, kissing him again, with more passion. ,”mmm, what time should we invite them round?”

Frederick moved his hands to her thighs and squeezed, making her tighten her tail and push him back into the sofa. “I’d say about eight,” she said, panting slightly.

Frederick grinned, “Alright, that gives us a couple of hours to...” he paused and leaned forwards against Twilights protests and pushing hooves. He leaned in and whispered into her ear, “Learn magic...”

Twilight couldn’t stop herself and pushed her lips against his, making him fall back. He had found her weakness and exploited it, but for some reason she didn’t care.

___

A few hours later, they removed themselves from the sofa and stretched. “I’ll go and find Smart, can you tell Luna?” Frederick asked.

“Sure, I just have to find Spike, I’m sure he’s here somewhere...”

“Try Rarity’s, he’s probably with Sweetie,” Frederick said, a smile making its way onto his lips.

“Will do, I’ll see you in a bit,” Twilight shouted, watching Frederick open the door, “missing you already!” She blurted out, blushing madly. She turned around and his her face.

Frederick stood there at the door for a few seconds. He didn’t expect to hear that from her, but it made him feel warm inside; it made him feel wanted.

Walking outside, he noticed less ponies about than usual for this time of day. Shaking off the feeling that something was wrong; telling himself he was being paranoid, he made his way over to the nearest inn and opened the door.

Inside, he looked about. The room was lit by a large fireplace that illuminated the various ponies sat at their tables in the middle of the room. Off to the side, near the door was the front desk; a light blue coated earth pony sat there, looking disinterested in the magazine she was reading.

“Hi there,” Frederick greeted, walking up to the desk, “I’m looking for a mare called Smart Glass, does she rent a room here?”

The pony looked up and recoiled upon seeing Frederick. “What in Tartarus are you?” She said nervously. She looked him over and something clicked, “Oh... you’re that thing that’s rutting the librarian...”

“The hell did you say?” Frederick asked in disbelief, not feeling the air lose its warmth.

“I’m just saying, I’d never peg her for a crossbr-”

The mare started choking as Frederick picked her up by her throat using his magic. “Don’t you ever say that about her?” He shouted, dropping the mare.

He turned around and left the building before he did anything more dangerous. Standing outside, he looked around and focused, letting his anger flow out of himself. “It’s only one pony, not everyone is like that…” he told himself, only partially believing it.

He shivered and did his jacket up. Looking about, Frederick found a couple of ponies standing about near the fountain and walked over.

“Hi...”he said, hoping they wouldn’t insult him or his mare friend.

“Hello,” one of the ponies greeted; a beige coated, fuchsia and cobalt mane earth pony. She turned to her friend, “Say hi, Lyra,” she said, glaring at her.

“Yeah, Hi... freak,” Lyra said, scoffing at Frederick then looking away.

He was starting to get confused, normally Ponyville was a friendly place, but now... he had only gone for about a week and it had changed this much.

“Where’s the other inns around town?” Frederick asked, trying to be as polite as possible, he didn’t want to be arrested again, or worse thrown out of town.

“Don’t answer that, Bon-Bon. It’s a trick, it wants our souls...” Lyra explained, only receiving a nod from Bon-Bon.

“I see...” she said, before turning to Frederick, “I’m sorry about her, she’s been angry since yesterday and she won’t say why.” Bon-Bon looked around and pointed over to a road, “the only other inn is down there, you can’t miss it.”

Frederick nodded, “Thank you for not insulting me, it makes a change.” He chuckled and turned to Lyra, “I hope you sort out whatever made you angry, it’s not worth it.”

“Whatever, freak,” Lyra replied.

Frederick sighed and made his way down the road towards the inn. He didn’t notice the layer of frost that coated his shoes fade away.

Opening the door to the inn, he took a deep breath and walked in, really hoping they would be cooperative with him. He saw Smart sitting at a table near the corner, eating some soup.

Walking over, he noticed that there were some ponies having arguments, not aggressive, but falling out over petty things. This only added further to his confusion, but he decided to note it for later.

“Hi Smart,” Frederick greeted.

She looked up and smiled, placing her spoon down. “Ah Frederick, how are you?” She asked. Moving the second chair out, he sat down.

“I’m alright, ponies have been acting strange though.”

“Tell me about it. Some pony tried to argue with me, guess why?” Smart asked, grinning.

“Why?” Frederick asked, curious.

“He started arguing, because I’m a unicorn, how racist is that!”

“Wow, what did you do?”

“I did what any self-respecting pony would do and hit him. He went out in one, the lightweight,” she chuckled.

Frederick joined in and laughed. “Alright, we should get on to why I’m here,” he said. “We are having dinner in a bit and wondered if you’d like to join us?”

“Me, why would you want me there?” Smart asked, genuinely confused.

“Why wouldn’t we want you there?” Frederick grinned. “Princess Luna will be there, plus afterwards we can start our research, it’s perfect.”

“You’re cooking for the princess?” Smart shouted, making all the ponies in the room turn towards them.

Frederick glared at her, then turned to the others, “I mean my mare friend, and she’s a princess to me.”

Some of the ponies rolled their eyes and turned back around, a few "aww”s could be heard as well. The rest of the ponies shook their heads, annoyed at not being able to see a Princess.

“You have got to stop doing that,” Frederick said.

Smart gave a sheepish smile, “Sorry...”

“Never mind, so you’ll come?” He asked, hoping she would say yes.

“Sure, what time?” Smart grinned and moves the soup over, “the food isn’t great here anyway.”

“It starts at eight don’t be late.” Frederick got up from the chair and pushed it back in. “I’ll see you there.”

“I’m looking forward to it!” She shouted, watching Frederick walk out of the building.

Chapter 18

Frederick pulled open the inn's door and walked outside, taking a deep breath; the smell of the inn fading away into nothing. He wasn’t sure what was up with Ponyville all of a sudden, but there were bigger things on his mind than a couple of rude ponies.

“Alright, let’s see what I need…” He mumbled, looking around for the nearest grocery store. He quickly located it and walked over, pushing the door open and feeling the cold blast of air from the refrigerators.

“Hi,” he waved to the pony sitting behind the counter; receiving a nod in return. ‘At least he isn’t insulting me or Twilight…’ Frederick thought. Walking past the counter, Frederick picked up a basket and slowly made his way down the aisles. He looked at the food, thinking of what he could cook for later.

“I guess I could make pasta… no, It’ll be too bland for the Princess.” He had to take into account the fact that he didn’t know what Smart liked to eat as well, earning himself a headache for his troubles. “I…” He thought, before stopping himself and shaking his head; he simply had no idea what to buy.

Sighing, he made the decision to cook what he would like, the consequences be damned. “Right, I’ll need this,” He said, picking up some carrots and placing them in the basket. He then walked over to the herb section and picking out a small selection, “These will come in handy.”

Turning down another aisle, he picked up some cumin seeds, some oranges and a small packet of chickpeas. Turning around, he scanned the shelves and picked out a small bottle of olive oil, placing it in and then picked up a packet of pomegranate seeds, placing them next to the oranges. “Only one thing left for the starter…” He looked around and caught sight of exactly what he needed, Cumin seeds. “Gotcha,” He mumbled, as he made space in the basket for the main course.

He paused and went over the list of recipes he had made for his family in the past, it didn’t take long to choose what he thought everyone would like, the princess included. He looked about and found the first ingredient for what he needed, mushrooms. He placed them in the basket and went looking for the rest.

Spending a couple of minutes searching had yielded a good haul. He knew that there were some of the ingredients back at the Library and didn’t bother to buy new ones. He collected the rapeseed oil; the fact that the store even stocked it surprised him to no end and then the garlic, carrying on to the pasta and then the chestnuts.

“Alright, so that’s the main course done, now for desert,’ Frederick nodded, happy that he was able to find everything in a timely manner, he only had two hours left before they would turn up.

Knowing that Twilight would have most of this recipe as well, Frederick looked about for the spoilable ingredients, stuff that he wasn’t willing to take a chance on. Finding eggs, he took a carton and looked along the shelf for the milk. He picked up a large bottle and placed it in the basket along with, strangely enough, a coconut and some blueberries.

“At last…” Frederick sighed and lugged the basket over to the counter. He placed it on the side and took out his bag of bits as the pony rung up the total.

After some time, the pony turned to Frederick, “Twenty nine bits please.” He looked quite bored of his job, made clear by the lack of ponies actually shopping in the store, or in general around Ponyville.

“Here,” Frederick replied, pushing six stacks of five coins across the counter, “Keep the one.” Frederick lifted the bags off and walked out of the store.

Making his way home, he couldn’t help but imagine Twilight’s face when he brings out the food; he really hoped she would like this. He opened the door to the Library and called out. Receiving no reply, he walked in and closed the door. “She must be at Rarity’s still,” Frederick mumbled as he dragged himself into the kitchen.

He placed the bags on the table and opened the fridge. It saw absolute chaos, there was absolutely no order to the inside and made it hard to look at. Rubbing his hands together, Frederick started to levitate ingredients out and onto the table, making sure they were on cloth before he placed them down.

“Damn Twilight, I thought you could organise…” Frederick mumbled, placing everything back in a non-horrific way. “Better, now for these.” He levitated everything from the shopping bags over and into the fridge. He wrote a note on a small sticky pad and placed it on the door.

“Do not eat anything!”

Smiling, Frederick looked about the empty Library. He wasn’t sure what he could do for the last hour before he planned to start cooking. Noticing the formula for foresight, he walked over and sat down.

“How does she expect me to learn this by the end of the week?” He asked out loud. Shaking his head, he decided to read “Shields and you: a reference guide.” Opening it up to the page he was on, then looking over the formula again, he effortlessly cast the spell and the hex construct materialised in front of him.

Memorising a smaller formula, he replaced a section in his head and saw the hex grow larger, almost to double the size. Placing his hand up against it, he smiled as his hand hit inside the perimeter. He closed his eyes and changed one number, which the book described as the number that controls the size. Making the number larger increased the size of the hex until it touched the table and reducing the number, reduced the size.

Frederick grinned and closed the book, “Another part done, Twilight is going to be excited.” Opening up the other book he collected, “Grimoire of Forgotten Magic.” He picked it up because of the strange name, there wasn’t many Grimoire on the continent of Mesopan and finding one that wouldn’t kill you instantly was pure luck as there wasn’t a standard way of writing spells, they were usually taught visually and orally.

He opened the Grimoire up and turned to the first page and leaned forwards, his blood freezing in his veins. Reading the words, his eyes widened, “This book is the property of the museum of Runic and Alchemical Science. Return if found.”

“This can’t exist here…” He muttered, not willing to blink just in case it wasn’t real and vanished. Quickly turning the page, Frederick scanned the pages and found several pictures of Runes and formulae of several spells of Alarian descent. “How the hell…” He said, turning the pages quicker, until he got to a page in the middle of the book that was bound in paper thin chains.

Moving the chains, Frederick felt they were as hard as steel and had the texture to match, “It would take bolt cutters to get through…” He said, a little saddened that he wouldn’t be able to find out what was on the page.

His interest peaked though as he flipped back through, stopping on one of the basic offensive spells, “I guess I could read about this,” He muttered as he got up and moved to the sofa, putting his feet up on the coffee table.

His mind was still reeling from finding this book in the library, ‘How did it arrive here, when did it get here, did Twilight ever read it and if this came here, what else did as well…’

Frederick tried to put those questions to the back of his mind as he started to read the page. He had heard about some of these spells before, from gossip arount New Haven, but had never actually seen them in action.

Frederick was nervous, the gossip had said that the guards that battled a mage had their faces melted and eyes turned into hornets, but back then, he would have never believed them; now, he wasn't so sure.

"No turning back now,' he said as he started readin g the page. He frowned, "Black Bolt, that's a little underwhelming..."

Giving the page a blank look, he carried on to the explantion of how it worked. '"Black Bolt is basically condensed dark energy. You, the magic user, will the energy into being, giving your own magic in return. It is then collected and moved by your will," Frederick read aloud.

He carried on, "There are teo different ways to cast Black Bolt for the aspiring magic user. You can either cast using a gesture of your choosing, or by though alone, the former requiring less magic to cast, taking from your kenetic energy instead."

"Huh, ok," Frederick said, looking about for any sign of Twilight, slightly missing her. He looked at the clock on the wall, "Damn, still fifty minutes left..." Frededick sighed and turned the page to the glyth.

Instead of forumla, Alaria's magic users adopted the use of glyths for their spell casting. It was efficient, but limited.

Staring at the glyth for a few minutes, taking in all the details, Frederick tried to memorise it. Closing his eyes, he could see it clearly and grinned, "Looks like my practise finally payed off..."

Not willing to cast the spell inside, in case he blew the library up. He got up from the sofa and walked over to the door. Locking it behind him, Frederick walked around the library, to the back where he found a small garden.

Sitting on the grass was his forge materials. It consisted of thee pallets of heat-proof bricks, a metal frame and everything else he ordered. Looking about, he got the idea to build a firing range; one that wasn't facing any major building, of course.

Making sure thathis line of sight was facing towards a field, he dug a little hole with his magic, marking the spot to build on.

Frederick levitated a large amount of bricks over, grunting at the exertion. He then levitated over a few of the metal poles.

Placing the bricks into a small block shape, he slid a metal pole through the middle of them, pinning them in place.

Waking back to the materials with the excess, Frederick placed them down and closed his eyes, remembering the glyth. He willed his magic and felt an enormous drain on it, dropping to one knee, breathing heavily, he felt it let up, the pressure on his chest vanishing.

He opened his eyes and saw the crystals embedded in his hand had turned black. Remembeing he had to use a gesture, Frederick pulled his hand back and threw it forwards aiming for the block.

The crystals glowed with darkness which travelled down Frederick's hand and shot out at speed. Before he knew it, the bolt had hit the block, blowing a small crater in the side of it.

"Bloody hell..." he shouted, moving back, mouth agape. Looking at his hand, Frederick laughed and jumped about, "this is awesome!"

A cyan streak passed him and stopped, "What's awesome?" Rainbow asked, scaring Frederick. He jumped back and fell over his materials.

"Ow..." he said taking dash's hoof. Brushing himself off, Frederick then pointed to the block of bricks, "I did that."

Dash turned to it, and saw the still smoking hole, "Whoa, how!?" She asked.

"Magic," Frederick replied as he held up the Grimoire, "I found out this is from my world."

"I thought you got here by accident?"

"I did. But so did this apparently, I don't know how long ago... hang on." Frederick opened the book to the last page and scanned it for some sort of date. "This is a Grimoire, they don't just keep them laying around. It would had to have been under heavy lock and key..."

"Then, why is it here, if it was so well guarded," Dash asked, now curious.

"Damn, no date... I don't know, but I will find out why, believe me."

"Does this mean you still want to go home?" Rainbow asked, looking up at him with a frown.

He sighed and knelt down, "No, I'm... not leaving, my home is here now." Frederick smiled, placing a hand on Rainbows shoulder, "besides, I couldn't pay you back for lunch if I did."

Rainbow grinned, "No, you couldn't." she hugged him. "It's good you're not leaving," she mumbled.

Frederick hughed back and smiled. He pulled back and asked, "Sorry dash, I've got plans. Can we meet up sometime to properly hang out?"

"Sure, what plans?" She asked, before smirking, "Are you and Twi..."

"No dash, we aren't." Frederick glared. "Me and Twilight have guests over for dinner tonight and I have to cook soon."

"Oh, I guess that's cool... any pony I know?"

"Well, that depends, do you know Luna?" He asked, waiting for her responce.

"You are cooking for princess Luna." Dash's mouth hung open. Frederick used his magic to close it. 'Thanks. Wow, that's amazing, I wish I could go but I have to foalsit Scootaloo, her parents are going out of town, again," she huffed, "I swear I look after her more than them."

"I think it's nice you do that," he said, rising back to his full height. "Anyway, I have to start cooking, Twilight will hopefully be home soon."

"Alright," dash replied, flapping her wings and hovering at head height. "I'll see you around."

"Bye Dash," Frederick called, watching Rainboe fly off.

Turning around, he made his way back inside. Once in the library, he took his shoes off and made his way into the kitchen and set the table. Once that was done, he took out all the utinsils he would need preparing himself for the inevitable stress.

Frederick heard the door open and the voice of his favorite mare. Walking out of the kitchen he greeted her.

"I see you're back!" He said, leaning down and kissing Twilight.

"Indeed, we had a lovely time at Rarity's, didn't we Spike?" She said, turning to Spike who turned away.

"Uh, yeah I guess..."

Twilight shook her head, "Well, I did anyway." She kissed him again, this time a little longer and then pulled back, "anything fun happen?"

"You could say that, but it can wait till after dinner, when I can put on a show."

"A show?" Twilight asked, confused. 'What exactly do you have planned for tonight?" Twilight raised her eyebrow and gave Frederick a suspicious look.

"If you must know -"

"No!" She shouted, "don't tell me!"

"But..."

"I want it to be a surprise, it must be good if you're going to show Luna and Smart Glass." Twilight said, trotting around Frederick and over to the sofa. She jumped up and laid down, yawning. "I'm so tired..." she said, laying her head down, "who knew talking with Rarity would be so exhausting."

"At least you got to talk..." Spike grumbled, folding his arms and looking away. He had a look of disappointment on his face which Frederick picked up on quickly.

"What's up Spike?" Frederick asked, concerned for the little guy.

"Nothing," Spike replied, the frown on his face giving him away.

Frededick walked over to the kitchen, turned around and waved his hand. "hey Spike, can you give me a hand in here?"

"Fine." Spike slowly shuffled himself over and into the kitchen, where he found Frederick sitting at the table, tapping his fingers.

"Take a seat, please," Frederick said, pointing to the one opposite him. Spike sat down and looked at Frederick. "Spike, what happened at Rarity's?'

Spike looked over to the doorway with a sad look and whispered, "They didn't even know I was there..." he leaned forwards and leaned his head in his hands.

"Who, Twilight and Rarity?"

"Yeah, they just sat in the kitchen and chatted, like this." Spike looked down and twirled his thumbs together, his eyes watering.

"Well, I imagine that they simply got caught up in their talk." Frederick replied, trying to sympathize with the drake, "I'm sure they didn't know that they did that. You know how females are..."

"I guess, but it still hurts."

"You've been staying an awful lot round Rarity's, maybe you're getting used to being the only one there with her?" Frederick didn't expect an answer. "I guess you haven't told her yet, that you like her?"

"How did you know about that?!" Spike whispered as loudly as he could without waking Twilight; he didn't want a grouchy Twilight right now.

"Spike, it's kind of obvious."

"Really?" Spike asked, unsure if Rarity knew.

"Before you ask, she probably doesn't know. Otherwise she would talk about it with you." Frederick half heartedly smiled. "Tell her, it'll make things better in the long run, even if she says no... Not that I think she will."

"I guess..."

"Good, now come on. It's time for you to go to bed." Frederick rose from his chair and walked around the table, then picked up Spike.

"Hey, watch the spines!"

He then walked out of the kitchen and up the stairs. Opening the door to Twilight's room, he found Spike's bed and placed him in. "If you need anything, we'll be downstairs, ok?"

"Ok," Spike nodded and tucked himself in.

Frederick walked out of the room with a smile. He hoped Spike would gather his courage and tell Rarity, otherwise he could see it become awkward and then bad between them later on.

Chapter 19

Frederick walked down the stairs into the living room. He looked over and saw Twilight laying on the sofa, asleep. Walking over, he pecked her on the cheek and gently rocked her back and forth to wake her up.

Opening her eyes and leaning up, she rubbed them with a hoof. "Frederick, what time is it? Is the Princess here!?" Twilight asked, starting to panic. Her hair started to stand on end and she looked about, trying to spot Luna.

Frederick grabbed her shoulders, "Whoa, calm down. Nobody's here yet." Twilight nodded and he took his hands away, slowly. "I just woke you up so you could set the table, I'm going to start cooking now."

"I-I guess so..." she replied, looking away as she blushed. Twilight watched as Frederick rose from his crouched position and walked off into the kitchen, whistling an unfamiliar tune. She looked down, ashamed she let him see her like that. She hated herself when she got so... herself, especially when she had to be calmed down.

Reluctantly, she jumped off the sofa and trotted over to the kitchen to fetch a stack of plates, glancing at her coltfriend every so often.

Twilight set the table and stood there thinking. 'I don't deserve him,' she thought, shaking her head, 'he cooks, he looks after me and for what... to get shouted at?' She blew her hair out out of her eyes and sighed.

Twilight's determination grew: she knew she needed to do something, but what?

"Oh, I don't know..." she said to herself, her frustration growing as she laid out the cutlery around the plates. As she set the last knife, some pony knocked at the door.

"I'll get it!" Twilight shouted and walked over. She pulled it open and smiled, "Hi!"

"Hi!" Smart Glass greeted and held out a bottle of wine. "I hope you like red, I didn't know what to buy and the pony in the shop said to get wine as it's the most common and now I'm rambling, please stop me-"

"Alright, let's get you inside..." Twilight said, pulling her by the hoof and closing the door. "Frederick is in the kitchen if you want to say hello."

"Oh... Ok, I guess I'll go and say hi then..." Smart mumbled and turned before being stopped by Twilight.

"Smart Glass, are you alright?"

"Yeah, yeah I'm fine... Just a bit nervous. I've never been to one of these," She replied, looking dejected.

"To a dinner party?" Twilight asked.

"To a friend's house..." Smart said, looking away embarrassed. "I didn't have a lot of friends growing up and the ones I did have... didn't like me that much."

Twilight gave Smart a sympathetic smile and rubbed her shoulder, "Oh, I'm sorry; I shouldn't have brought it up." looking at the time, she gasped, "Go on through and talk to Frederick, I have to get ready..." Not waiting for an answer, Twilight rushed past Smart Glass and up the stairs. She burst into her room and pulled out a few dresses.

"Keep it down..." Spike groaned as he turned over in his bed.

"Oops, sorry Spike," Twilight whispered. She turned back around and shook her head at the dresses. 'Smart didn't wear anything and she looks good, maybe I should wear a necklace instead of a dress?' She thought to herself as she reached out and opened her jewelry drawer.

She looked over the collection of jewelry that many suitors had brought her, hoping to get closer to the Princess. She had turned them down, but kept the gifts; she wasn't one to turn down a diamond necklace, especially if the stallion was a jerk.

Twilight pulled out a semi-transparent glass necklace. It sparkled in the light from the candles, casting rainbow hues around the room, making it look magical. She smiled and hung it around her neck, making sure it sat just right and looked in the mirror.

"You look beautiful," Frederick spoke as he leaned on the doorframe. He smiled and looked her over, "good choice with the dresses, you look better without them."

Twilight looked away, her smile widening. "Shouldn't you be cooking?" She asked, unsure.

"Nah, it's just simmering at the moment. Everything is done, just got to wait," he replied, walking into the room, "I wanted to see my girlfriend before dinner..."

Frederick walked over to the bed and sat down. He patted the area next to him and watched as Twilight jumped up and sat there, looking up at him.

"I know we've been through some rough times. What with the hospital and your parents, but it'll get better, trust me."

"How can you be so positive? You weren't like this when you arrived." Twilight asked.

"I don't know really, maybe your friends have rubbed off on me... Or maybe I don't care what the future brings anymore."

Twilight placed a hoof on Fredericks leg and closed her eyes as his hand made its way through her mane,"What do you mean?"

Frederick held a content smile on his face as his hand trailed down Twilight's back, he looked down, "I nearly died, twice. Of course, both of those times were my fault, but still."

Twilight looked away, her grip on his leg tightening. She could feel her heart beat faster in her chest, a lump in her throat and her tongue become heavy.

Frederick placed a hand on her hoof and she jumped, "Easy, I'm only holding your hoof, what's up?" He squeezed her hoof and waited.

After a few moments, she rose, turned to face him and placed her lips on his, kissing him.

She pushed into him, feeling her heartrate increase, she wasn't sure what this new feeling was, but she didn't want it to stop.

Frederick was surprised, but instantly pushed back and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her closer. He stood up, keeping the kiss going. She pulled herself onto her back legs, so she was at the same height as him while he was standing.

Twilight moved her hooves through his hair, which had only grown longer and more unruly while he was in Equestria. She didn't mind, though; to her, it was as much a part of him as his suit or the crystal in his hand, even if it was a nuisance sometimes.

She moaned as his hand trailed down and groped her buttocks, his hands digging deep into her flesh. She blushed deeply, but didn't feel the need to stop him.

Twilight pulled back breathing heavily, a string of saliva connecting them. She caught her breath, "Wow... You're something else."

"You're not too bad yourself, Miss Sparkle." Frederick replied, kissing her on the nose, "we should go downstairs, our guest might get bored." he squeezed her butt one more time before placing Twilight down on the bed.

She jumped down and followed Frederick out of the room, wrapping her tail around his leg once they were downstairs.

Smart Glass sat on the sofa, sipping a glass of red wine and looked over. She saw the couple and grinned, "Nice to see you again. Have fun?"

Twilight stuttered, "I don't know what you mean?"

Smart leaned forward and picked up the bottle of wine then poured some into her glass, "Alright..."

Frederick walked over and picked up the bottle, "I think you've had enough..." then walked over to the kitchen and placed it on the counter.

"But..."

"No buts, I don't want you to be drunk when the Princess turns up," he stated, sitting down at the table, watching the door for the Princess' arrival.

"So, Smart," Twilight asked, walking over to the opposite seat, "What have you been doing recently?"

"Oh not much, the closest thing this town has to a lab is the hospital and it's severely under-stocked. I don't know how ponies can live like this..." she replied, unaware of the glare Twilight was giving her. As she placed her glass down, Frederick silently levitated it away, hoping she wouldn't drink anymore.

Flicking her hair back, she continued, "Nevertheless, I endured it and got some research finished, my finest work yet: how to maximise crystal growth through electrical stimulation." she smiled and looked to Frederick, "What was your best work?" She asked, raising her eyebrow.

He gave a silent chuckle and shook his head, "I don't have any, I was never one for proper research. To be honest, what we are going to do might not even work, I wasn't exactly an expert," he replied humbly.

At that moment, a gentle knock emanated from the door. Everyone in the room turned as Frederick went to open it.

He smiled, seeing Luna standing there; her hair sparkled as the clouds parted, illuminating her. "Hi, Luna," he spoke, holding out a hand.

She placed a hoof in it and smiled when he kissed it gently, "My my, such a gentlecolt..."

Standing back to full height, Frederick moved to the side, "Please, come inside. The food's nearly done." he could see Luna glance to his and away, almost as if she had something to say, but couldn't.

"Alright." Luna walked into the library, brushing her tail against Frederick's leg.

Shaking his head, he closed the door and followed her inside. She took her silver horseshoes off and levitated them over to the side. "Ooh, it feels soo good to take them off..."

"I can see that. Do you want me to take your tiara?" Frederick asked.

Luna looked up and levitated it off her head, "Sure..."

Frederick levitated it onto a small hook next to the coats. He turned to Luna, got on his knees and held his arms out.

She rushed forwards and embraced him, holding him tightly. "I'm so sorry!" She said, nuzzling his neck, "I shouldn't have teleported you!"

"It's not your fault Luna, really. It was my decision and I'm happy with it."

"But you nearly died..." she whispered, almost afraid that saying it would bring bad luck.

"But I didn't," Frederick pushed her away gently and looked her on the eyes, "and it was worth it, for her."

Luna smiled and nodded, "You love her, don't you?"

"I don't know, it's too early to tell. But I don't want to lose her," he replied, "Anyway, why haven't you come to see me while I was out?"

Luna looked away, "Uh... We had some trouble in the castle. Tia says I'm not allowed to talk about it."

"What kind of trouble?" Frederick asked, knowing full well she would tell him if he asked enough times.

"I don't know..." she mumbled. "There was a break in, in the Elements vault."

"A break in... You live in a castle, how can someone just break in?" Frederick frowned, if they stole the elements, they could be after Twilight or the girls next... 'Note to self, learn more spells...'

"I don't know, but Celestia said they were using some magic she hadn't seen in a long time."

Frederick sighed, "Alright, let's go inside. We can talk about this later."

Luna nodded and pecked him on the cheek. "Thank you," she whispered and walked into the living room feeling a little better.

Twilight stood up and bowed, "Princess, it's lovely to see you!"

Luna walked further in and pulled Twilight up using her magic, "No need to bow, Twilight. This is an informal dinner."

"Sorry... force of habit, I suppose," Twilight replied as she blushed.

Luna chuckled, "Don't worry so much."

She looked over Twilight's shoulder and saw Smart Glass standing there awkwardly and walked over, giving Twilight a friendly nuzzle.

"Princess... It's an honor," Smart Glass said, bowing. She lowered herself down, but was stopped by Luna.

"What did I just say? No bowing, Please."

Smart looked up and nodded, "As you wish, your highness."

Luna shook her head and smiled, "Just call me Luna, we are going to be working together for... hopefully a long time."

"Okay... Luna."

"Good."

Frederick walked out of the kitchen holding two plates of steaming food. "Please dig in straight away, I'll get the rest." He placed them down and went to fetch the other two plates.

Luna let Twilight and Smart Glass still down first, they chose to sit next to each other with Luna sitting opposite.

Frederick walked back in and placed the two remaining plates in front of Luna and himself. He sat down, taking the apron off and folding it over the back of his chair.

"I hope everyone enjoys. It's from a recipe book I had at my parents."

"It looks amazing," Twilight commented, looking down at her plate. She clumsily picked up her fork and sampled some pasta, smiling as she chewed, "Ohmygosh, this tastes soo good!"

"I have to agree, this is as good if not better than the castle's chefs," Luna agreed, nodding.

Smart stayed quiet and simply ate her food, not wanting to say anything awkward. She wasn't used to these situations and didn't know how to act. Especially with Princess Luna in the room.

"I'm glad you all think so," Frederick grinned, before digging in himself.

"So, What have you got planned for us. I hear it's super secret..." Luna asked, before she stuffed some of the delicious food into her mouth and blushing as she wiped some stray sauce off her chin.

"Well," Frederick replied, swallowing. "Not really, I'm just going over some ground rules whenever one of us uses the lab. Plus, I have something else to show you, in regards to my magic." Frederick placed his utensils down, "I also want to get the crystals sorted into separate piles tonight, it's been bugging me for a while now... and maybe sort out some plans for what we need to research or build."

Twilight swallowed and wiped her mouth with a napkin, "That seems reasonable. any particular reason we have to do everything tonight? I'm sure we'd be better off doing half now and the other half tomorrow?"

Frederick paused and thought about it, "Well, okay. I'm sure you guys won't want to be working after this anyway."

Luna and Smart Glass slowly shake their heads, not really knowing if that was rhetorical.

The rest of the meal is uneventful and mostly silent, as the plentiful main course and dessert has a way of filling everyone's mouths more often than not.

After retreating to the couch with some wine, they found themselves slowly falling into a food coma and fighting to keep their eyes open. Fearing that his guests and Twilight would fall asleep, he got up out of his chair, "Come on, it's time!"

Luna groaned as she turned her head, "Really? Can't you let us sleep?"

"I, uh, fine..." He replied, feeling disappointed. "I guess I can." Frederick sat down and leaned back, letting sleep take him. He felt someone jump up and lay on him, nuzzling his neck.

Opening his eyes, he saw Twilight smile up at him. She kissed him, "Thank you for this, you are the best," she whispered, not wanting to wake anyone else up.

"Anything for you..." Frederick replied while drifting off, the nuzzling helping him along.

Chapter 20

Groaning, Frederick sits up and brushed the sleep out of his eyes and yawned. "I see we're back here..." He muttered, turning towards Luna who was sitting in a leather high-back with her legs crossed. As was the usual, she had changed into her human form and wore her petite blue dress.

"Indeed," Luna replied, "the garden is... relaxing, don't you think?"

"I'd have to agree... though, something tells me you'd enjoy it more if I showed you something." Frederick stood up and brushed himself off from laying on the stone bench that he usually wakes up on.

Luna looked around at the flora before nodding. "As you wish. But if it's your bedroom..." she says with a sly smile.

"Can't you think of anything else?" Frederick laughed. "Have you even met anyone special?"

Luna blushed and waved a hand, "Don't you worry about me, I have plans."

Frederick nodded and closed his eyes, thinking of a place that he could show Luna. He flicked through his memories before he smiled and projected it outward.

The scenery changed around them, slowly fading out and materializing into a bustling town center.

"Where are we?" Luna asked, spinning around and taking in the site of so many human in one area. "It's amazing."

"This is Shregrove, the place we first met. This is the main road that runs from there," Frederick pointed to a large cathedral shaped building at the top of a steep hill, then turned and pointed towards the other end of thr road that led to the main gate of the city, "to there."

Staring at the cathedral, Luna asked, "What building is that?"

"That," Frederick started as he moved closer to Luna, "is the Academy for Rune Research and Augmentation."

"I see... did you study there?"

Frederick burst out laughing, "T-there, oh hell no. I could never afford to go there."

Luna stared at the building for a few seconds longer, before she turned her attention to the people around her. "Such detail," She mumbled, then looked to Frederick. "It's been a very long time since I have seen someone with such detailed dreams."

"What about yours?" Frederick asked, raising an eyebrow.

Luna rolled her eyes and chuckled, "I don't count, I am the princess of the night. It goes without saying that mine are the best."

"Modest as ever, I see."

Grinning, Luna bowed. Rising back up, she walked up to one of the nearby women and poked her, freezing her instantly. Luna took a closer look at her clothes and changed her own to match.

Instantly, she was wearing a long-sleeved cream colored shirt with a pale yellow cardigan and a brown ankle length skirt.

Twirling, Luna looked to Frederick and asked, "How do I look?"

"Like a real New Haven resident," He replied, walking over and picking up an apple from one of the vendors. "You know, I used to walk this road almost everyday..."

"I can tell," Luna said, looking around at all the shops and vendors. "How long did you live here?"

"Only for a couple of years. We moved from High Prez due to some reason my mother had; I can't remember." Frederick took a bite out of the apple and smiled, he always did like the ones from this cart. "My sister stayed behind as she got a pretty good job in the castle. I saw her a couple times a year, but it never seemed like enough, you know."

Luna nodded, knowing exactly what he meant. She walked over and gently took his arm and pulled him along, slowly walking down the road towards the gate.

"As time went on, we... I don't know, grew apart, I guess. Long distance will do that to anyone. She didn't have enough time off and I was busy with experiments." Frederick sighed and glanced to Luna, who had rested her head on his shoulder, listening intently to him. He chuckled despite his mood and said, "Sorry, I get carried away talking about family."

Luna raised her head and looked him in the eyes, "It's okay, really. I don't really get a chance to listen to others. They usually want to hear some kind of wisdom or answer." Luna rested her head on his shoulder again and tightened her grip on his arm, "I'm glad I met you, Frederick."

"As am I, Luna."

The pair continued walking until the road opened up into a large park. The cobbled road roughened up and soon they were walking on grass.

"Where are we now?" Luna asked. She made her shoes vanish and enjoyed the feeling of cool grass in between her toes.

"This is the park where I uses to spend my time with Angela." Frederick lead her over to a wooden bench off to one side and sat down with Luna next to him. He pointed over to a small pair of children playing in the middle of the park, "That's the two of us. We were maybe about... eight or nine there."

Luna smile grew as she took in the image of a younger Frederick. She grinned and turned to him, "Your soo cute!" Reaching up, Luna pinched his cheek, much to Frederick's displeasure.

Frederick swatted her hand away and slid across the bench, his cheeks red with embarrassment.

Luna grinned, "Some pony's embarrassed!"

"I am not," Frederick quickly replied.

Luna slid across and leaned in. She got closer and closer, their faced almost touching. After a few seconds, she smiled and said, "Okay!"

Jumping back, Luna twirled around and sighed as the grass made its way through her toes. "I like this, but I'm going to change back. If that's okay with you?"

Frederick crossed his arms, "Sure."

Luna rolled her eyes and in a flash had changed back into an alicorn. She trotted in place and flared her wings, rolling them in their sockets as she let out a relaxed sigh. "Much better..." she said, scrunching her hooves into the ground. "It may not be real, but my hooves don't know that."

Frederick's curiosity was peaked. He leaned forward, rested his arms on his knees and asked, "Why are you doing that?"

"Hmm?" Luna asked, opening an eye. "Oh, this?" She opened both eyes and smiled, "Alicorns are made up of all three races of ponies. This means we have a special connection to the earth as well as the sky, or magic.

While it's not as obvious as a unicorn's spell, most earth ponies have an inherent understanding of the earth and enjoy being in touch with the ground."

Frederick leaned back and raised an eyebrow, "Okay, so its relaxing."

Luna nodded, "In a manner of speaking, yes."

Frederick looked around before asking, "Is there anything else you wanted to know?"

"Hmm...," Luna pondered. She walked over and laid in front of Frederick, "What did you want to show everyone?"

"I don't know... It would spoil the surprise..."

"Ooh please," Luna pouted.

Frederick sighed then reached behind himself and brought out the book he had found. "I found this in the library, the other day."

"A book?" Luna said, frowning. "It's a library, there's hundreds..."

Frederick opened the book to the page with the Black Bolt spell and pointed to it, "This is a human spell, in a human book, in the library."

Luna blinked then realization hit her, "Oh..."

"Indeed." Frederick threw the book behind him and crossed his arms, "The best explanation I can think of is that it was thrown through when other experiments went on, regarding time travel or something..."

"That would suggest that our two world's were connected and it wasn't a miracle that you arrived here."

"Yeah."

"Others could come through..." Horror made to way onto Luna's face and she stood up, "You said other human's hate magic... they could hurt my ponies!"

"Whoa, easy. This is just a guess. This could all be some strange accident as well."

Luna thought for a moment and hesitated before slumping down, "I guess so..." She rested her head on her legs and looked up at Frederick.

"Besides," Frederick smiled, "That wasn't the best part..."

Luna raised an eyebrow, "Go on..."

~~~

Frederick was awoken by Luna shaking him violently, "What is the best part!"

"Pu-u-ut me-e dow-ow-own!" Frederick shouted, as he tried pushing Luna away, but her strength kept her on him.

Twilight walked out of her bedroom and gasped, her horn alight and levitating Luna off of Frederick. "Are you alright?!" She asked, rushing down the stairs.

Frederick turned to Twilight, "I'm fine, Twi." Then her turned to Luna and asked, "What was that about?"

Luna blushed and gave a sheepish smile, "Sorry... I get excited about surprises..."

Frederick sighed and shook his head, "Put her down." Twilight dispelled her magic and let Luna float to the floor. "If you'll let me, I'm getting everyone together first, then I'll show you." He turned to Twilight and let her nuzzle his cheek, "Good sleep?"

She grinned, "In your arms, perfectly."

Frederick rolled his eyes, before looking around the room, "Where's Smart Glass?"

"She's upstairs in my bed. I was checking on her when you woke up." Twilight walked around and jumped up on the couch, "She couldn't sleep down here, so she woke me up with her tossing and turning and I let her sleep upstairs."

"Ah, that's nice of you."

Twilight stuck out her tongue, then grinned, "Well, she's a friend, right?"

Frederick though for a moment,"I would think so."

Luna coughed and the pair turned to her, seemingly having forgotten she was there, "I don't want to break this up, but I have a schedule..."

"Oh right," Frederick said, then turned to Twilight, "Can you wake Glass?"

Twilight nodded, "Sure, don't be too long, I want to talk..." She let that hang in the air as she walked off and up the stairs.

Frederick glanced to Luna; the corners of her mouth turned up, "What do you know?"

Luna raised an eyebrow and brought a hoof to her chest. She fluttered her eyelashes innocently and replied, "Thee dost not knowest what thou means."

Frederick stared at the Princess for a few seconds before giving up and sighing. He felt a headache coming on.

Twilight and a yawning Smart Glass walked down he stairs and over to Luna, who sat waiting for Frederick to say something.

Frederick rose and walked over to the door, before turning back, "We're going outside for this."

The three ponies looked to each other before shrugging and following the human outside and round the back of the library. They ignored the pile of building materials that were now under a tarp which some pony must have left for them and carried on around, until they stopped behind Frederick in front of his make-shift firing range.

"What are we doing outside, it's quite cold..." Glass mumbled, shivering.

"We are outside for this." Frederick held up his hand with the crystals in and grinned.

"Your... Hand..." Luna deadpanned. "We're outside for your hand!" Slowly, realization struck and she squealed with excitement. "You learned a new spell!"

Twilight's eyes widened and she grinned, "Ooh, which one?!" Then she frowned and looked down to the ground for a few seconds before raising her head again, "Was it out of the homework I gave you?"

"You gave him homework?" Glass asked, chuckling.

"Shush you!" Twilight scolded. She turned back to Frederick, "Have you been learning in your free time?"

"Kind of," he admitted. "I learned this from a book that I found in the library. I told Luna earlier, so to save her time, I'll tell both of you after this demonstration." The other two ponies nodded and Frederick spun around to face the block at the far end of the range. He lifted his hand up to aim at the block and channeled magic into the crystal, forming the magic glyph in his head.

A few seconds later, he exhaled and the bolt flew from his hand, sizzling its way through the air and exploding against the brick block. The block cracked and shattered, showing the surrounding area with shards of glowing brick.

The ponies stood there with their mouths agape. Frederick turned around and grinned, "Cool, huh?"