> Brothers of the Night > by Night--Mist > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Luna's New Sons > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was a bit of a cold night. The Princess of Night made her way through the streets of Canterlot after having raised her beautiful moon. The running of the leaves had just finished a week ago, and as always, Rainbow Dash and Applejack had tied in the Ponyville area as she had heard. Whether or not the two had planned a tie, there were no doubts the two were happy with a shared win. Her reminiscing was interrupted as the wind picked up and blew a bit of a chill. “Buurrr. Winter feels to be fast approaching. I can’t imagine anypony being out here without some proper attire for these conditions,” Luna said to herself. As Luna prepared to take off, a small whimper, no, two small whimpers, from an alleyway grabbed her attention. “What on Earth?” She pondered. She folded her wings and lightly trotted towards the source of the whimpers. When she rounded a corner, what she saw next broke her heart. She put a hoof over her mouth to muffle her surprised gasp, and her eyes were welling up in tears as she saw two cute little colts laying in a cardboard box, huddled together shaking as they were not gifted with warmth on this night. These were not just your average Earth pony, Unicorn, or Pegasi. These two were little colts were Bat Ponies. Bat Ponies were a special breed of pegasi, as most knew. They weren’t the most common, but there was still a good portion. One of the little colts had a fur color that was similar to Peanut Butter that Luna would have with her toast. The other, bared a striking resemblance to the color of mist when seen at night. However, the coats of these two bat ponies were not in very good condition. Luna could also tell that they must have been starving for some time now at the way their bodies looked. What saddened Luna was that she knew all too well the most obvious reason for their present condition. In a way it also made her angry. She soon started to trot towards the little colts. The colts heard her footsteps and yelped at the sight of the princess before them. Both attempt to find places to try and hide. The state of their condition however didn’t let them get very far. Luna couldn’t bare to watch anymore. These colts were no more than 4 years old. How they managed to survive on their own was all but a mystery to her. She lifted the colts in her magic. The colts immediately screamed, covering their faces, waiting for the princess to hurt them, or something of the nature. “Calm down little ones. Please. I am not going to hurt you,” Luna said. The colts slowly pulled their hooves. “That’s it. You two should not be out here by yourselves. I don’t know why you are out here, but I cannot let you stay here,” Luna said. The boys said nothing as they crouched their heads lower at her statement. “Seeing as you need a place to eat, sleep and warm up, I am taking you with me,” Luna said. This surprised the colts and Luna giggled a bit. She soon heard the sound of two rumbling tummies. “It would seem I have found two hungry little colts.” This made the colts smile and blush. This in turn made Luna smile. “Let us be off, to fetch you some meals for those hungry little bellies,” Luna said as she placed the two foals on her back. Luna soon spread her wings and made ready to fly. Upon this happening, one colt wrapped his arms around her neck as best he could, and the other held onto his brother. She smiled and soon flew off onto the castle grounds. As she landed at the castle entrance, two Lunar guards greeted her. “Princess Luna, we are relieved to see you back safely, but, why do you carry two youngsters with you,” a Lunar Guard asked in curiosity. Luna was relieved he was curious rather than mad to see two bat ponies within the castle grounds. She replied, “I have brought them here for many reasons that will be explained in due time, however the most important reason right now are that these two require medical attention and a good meal.” Seeing the colts in the state they were in, they made no argument and fetched fellow Lunar Guards to stand their posts as one fetched the medical staff, and the other fetched the “cook of the night”. Luna was also escorted by one guard as she made her way through the halls. The two colts felt very intimidated as the Lunar Guard trotted with Luna. Soon, the Princess of night and the two colts made their way to the dining hall while the guard waited outside. Soon the chef arrived and was surprised to see two colts with the Lunar Princess. “Your majesty, this is quite unexpected, I usually see little visitors when I work during the days after me and my brother switch off,” the chef said. “Well, Chef Dumpling. There is more to this than you may think. I request that you make these two boys a well prepared meal. Their bellies have been growling like a bear,” Luna replied. “Of course your highness,” Dumpling said. He soon verified what the two colts were hungry for. However, he felt he could make a bit more for them. When the food came out, the boys were in shock and awe. They felt as if they were being treated like royalty. Why? And why was the Princess of the Night sacrificing time to spend with them? They did not know, but they were grateful. The two began eating, however, their little feast did not end well. Not 15 seconds after having devoured a small portion of their meal, they threw up. Luna was afraid this was going to happen. All that time on the streets had really done a number on their bodies. The chef felt sympathy for the two young ones. He knew it wasn’t because they hated the food, it was their bodies, having been malnourished and told the princess that it was no trouble cleaning the mess. Luna soon wiped the two little colts up and placed them on her back and made for the medical wing of the castle. Halfway there, she was intercepted by the evening royal medical staff. “Your highness, we came as soon as we were summoned. Please follow us at once your highness,” one of the medical staff members urged. They galloped as fast as their hooves could carry them. Soon they were at the examination room. Luna was asked to leave, however the little colts hung onto her legs as a way to say they didn’t want her to leave. After negotiations, the staff let her sit and watch. It took roughly half an hour, since the boys were so timid and would not speak a word. After Doctor Gentle Heart was finished, she turned to Luna. “What is their condition Gentle Heart?” Luna asked as she looked at the two little colts bundled up in warm blankets. “Well, other than extreme undernourishment, the boys are fine. It will take some time, but I am certain the boys will regain their strength, if given proper nourishment. To help speed the process, we have pills that can help. They’re tasteless for adults, but the foal additions have a sweetened blend put in to help the little ones be able to take it, since they don’t turn down sweets. These pills are an explosion of nutrients that will help them regain the strength they lost, I have already given each of them one with some water, so it should already be helping them. Had you not found them, your highness, I can’t begin to imagine what might have happened to them. If you don’t mind me asking your highness, what do you plan to do with them?” Gentle Heart inquires. Luna looked at the two little colts. For most, this would be a tough decision, but for her, her mind was made up. After the way the boys had reacted to her, especially just moments ago, she knew she was one pony they could trust. Plus, even if taking them to an orphanage had been on her mind, she had a feeling the two would be thrown out on the streets again just because they were different from all other ponies with their wings, ears and eyes. She couldn’t let that happen. Everypony had a right to live. The boys were no different. Plus, she had grown attached to the two little colts in the few hours they had spent together. She trotted over to them. As she did, they looked up at her, eyes filled with confusion. “Hello there, little ones. Are you feeling a little better?” She asked. The two colts simply nodded. ‘Okay this is a start,’ she thought. “Do you have a home? Any parents?” she added. The two hung their heads and shook them side to side. Luna felt even more hurt for them on the inside now. “Would you like to stay here?” She requested. The two colts look up at her in confusion before she continues, “With me? I can take care of you. Keep you safe. Would you like that?” She asked, taking baby steps with the request. The colts looked at each other, then looked back at her, and the one with the peanut butter fur asked, “W-Wiww you be ouw M-Mama?” This is a question she had been hoping for, and she was relieved they were trusting her enough to speak. She then replied, “If you really want me to, of course I can be your mommy.” The boys look back at each other and smiled. They leaned towards her and then began to hug her. She was surprise by this gesture, but then she smiled, and hugged the two little colts back, tearing up a bit. “Oh, one more thing, can you tell me your names?” She asked. “We…. We not have ones youw highness,” the mist colored pony said. “Well, no pony should go without a name here at our castle. Hmmmm….. I think I shall call you Night Mist, because your fur is like the color of the mist when seen at night. Would you like that dear?” Luna asked. “Uh huh, me likey,” Night Mist said. “Hehehe, whats about me Mama?” the peanut butter furred pony asked. “Well, I think I’ll call you…. Peanut Butter, because your fur is like the color of peanut butter, and I saw how you went for the Peanut Butter cookies at dinner. What do you think?” She asked. Peanut Butter giggled and blushed at his guilt of liking Peanut Butter cookies. “Dats a good one, Tanks Mama,” Peanut Butter answered. “Well, we’ll head to the lunar chambers in a moment. But I have to talk to Dr. Gentle Heart first dears,” Luna said. “Otay mama,” the boys replied in unison. Luna couldn’t help but giggle at the way the boys talked to her. It just made them all the more adorable. Soon she turned to Gentle Heart who had been listening in on the conversation and asked, “Your majesty, are sure you want to do this? Being a mother is a great challenge. I don’t doubt your abilities, but are you sure you are ready for this?” Luna smiled with courage, “I am. I cannot let these two go back to a life on the streets. It would hurt me too much to abandon them, knowing I could have done something. They have no one to turn to, and you know how the Canterlot Orphanage feels about bat ponies.” “I understand completely Princess Luna. I do not have anything against them. They seem to have been through more than their fare share, and I would feel a bit of guilt myself if we turned them away. I was just making sure you felt you are ready for this challenge,” Gentle Heart stated. Luna nodded in understanding. “Well, while you were conversing with the, hmhm, “young princes”, I took the liberty of preparing some medicine for them,” Gentle Heart stated. She handed her four medicine bottles with pills inside. Two labeled Peanut Butter and the other two labeled Night Mist. “Give them one from each bottle for the next two weeks during each meal. One will be the pill that we talked about, and the other should help them to hold down their food that they eat, and also digest it properly. I should also mention they both have high metabolisms, higher than most pegasi or bat ponies normally do, so they’ll be hungry a lot. “Thank you, I’ll make sure they take them. If that is all, we will be off. The boys look tuckered out,” Luna said as she looked back at the tired little colts. “Yes that will be all for now. I’ll have you bring them in two weeks from today to see how they are progressing. Do bring them in before hoof if you feel you need to though, don’t hesitate,” Gentle Heart urged. “I will, and thank you,” Luna calmly assured her. Soon she turned back to her two new sons. “Alright little ones, let us get you to bed,” Luna gestured them, and soon lowered herself, so her new boys could crawl onto her back. After they were secured on her back, it didn’t take long before they passed out while in transit to their new sleeping quarters with their new mother. She looked back and smiled as she watched the two boys sleep, and cast a spell to give them a shared and happy dream, protecting them from nightmares for the night. She then looked forward and continued her journey to the Lunar chambers. > Princes Of The Night > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Morning dawned on the city of Canterlot and a few beams had found their way into the Lunar Chambers. Thankfully Luna's Crescent Moon bed was large enough to allow Luna's little ones to sleep within her embrace. However, she knew that a new bed was required. While she knew some would suggest to let the boys have their own beds, she knew for certain the boys would want to remain close to her when they rested, for, as far as she knew, she was one of only few the little colts would trust. As the dawn had beamed into the room, the little bat ponies buried their faces in Luna's chest to block it out. It woke the Princess of Night, but upon looking down at them, she smiled and rubbed their backs gently. The whimpered happily as they fought to stay asleep. This made Luna's smile widen even more at their adorableness. She couldn't see how ponies could turn away from such cute little faces. Finally, Peanut Butter and night Mist stirred awake and looked up at Luna. "Mowning Mama," They said in unison. "Good morning my little ones. Did you sleep well?" Luna asked motherly. They yawned, "Uh huh." "That's good, because today, we have to go somewhere important," Luna informed them. "Whewe we going Mama?" Peanut Butter asked. "We're going to the orphanage," She answered. Night Mist Gasped and crawled under her wing. "What's the matter sweetie?" Luna asked worried as Peanut Butter followed suit . "Me no wanna go der. Dey scawy," Night Mist told her. "Dey trew (threw) us ovew fence wast time we der," Peanut Butter whimpered. "Oh, I'm not taking you there to make you stay there. I'm gonna adopt the two of you today. You're gonna become Princes of Equestria," Luna said. "W-weawwy?" Peanut Butter said as he peaked out from under her wing. "Yes, but first, we need you to get all squeaky clean," Luna said. "I was hoping you were planning on giving them a bath your grace. I have it all set to go. I even added bubbles for the little ones pleasure your majesty," Misty Breeze, a aqua colored pegasus stated proudly. "Thank you Misty. I can always count on you to be on top of things. And of course, no news ever slips past your ears," Luna replied. "Of course your majesty, or I couldn't be your personal hoof maiden," Misty said. "Well, I shall call you if we need anything else Misty," Luna said as she walked by Misty. "Always a pleasure to serve your majesty. I must say the boys are cute little rascals," Misty said. Night Mist and Peanut butter blushed as they hid in their new mother's mane. "Indeed they are, and a little shy too," Luna giggled. Luna soon walked into the bathroom and Misty shut the door to give them some privacy. Peanut Butter and Night Mist were blown away by how large it was. Sure they had seen the bathroom back at the orphanage, but this dwarfed it in comparison. Soon Luna grabbed them in her magic. For a second they were startled, then, when they noticed her magical aura surrounding them, then relaxed. She checked to see if the water in the tub was the right temperature, and as always, Misty had been spot on. Soon she climbed in and slowly lowered the colts into the tub with her putting them on the shallow part. "How does that feel my little ones?" Luna asked. "It wawm (warm), hehehe," Peanut Butter giggles. "Now, let wash out those manes. Now close your eyes little ones," Luna said. They did as they were told and Luna used her magic to scrub soap into there manes and then to scoop up a bucket of some water and pour it over their heads. "Brbrbrbrbrbrbrbrbr," Night Mist exclaimed as he shook his head of excess water. Luna giggled at his display. "Your manes and fur are looking much nicer," Luna commented. She held up a mirror and showed them what they looked like. They were surprised that they looked so well groomed. Once Luna was done after the boys had finished having fun popping bubbles, she levitated them out and placed them on a dry towel on her counter and soon wrapped a towel around each of them drying off their fur. When she finished, the colts' fur puffed out. "Hehehe. We so fwuffy," Peanut Butter giggled. "Yes you are," Luna said as she finished drying herself off. After she finished brushing their fur and straightening out their manes, she levitated them onto her back. It was still 7:30 a.m. according to the clock, which meant that many nobles, aside from her sister, were still asleep. This would provide her the chance to make her way to breakfast and out the door before there was an uproar of nobles hearing about the news. She soon trotted down to the dining room, not forgetting to grab the boys their medicine. As she trotted down though, something had crossed her mind. She saw something in the boys' past memories when they had been sleeping that she was uncertain about. She couldn't understand how, but these memories were something that had been locked away from the boys to be able to gain access. Whether that was good or bad, it was all how she looked at the situation. She had seen two boys.... human boys, from another dimension. As far back as she went, the boys had been on the run from something, they were scared. Then, a figure appeared. A figure she knew all too well. Discord, the lord of chaos. But his appearance was different. Now, being reformed he seemed to want to help the boys. He told them that they would lose their memory if he did this, but they would be in good hands, well, in her case hoofs. He then opened up a portal, and grabbing the boys hands together they jumped in. It seemed to be going smoothly, but then.... there was chaos. Discord had lost his grip and the rift sent the boys in a different direction than him. Now it was at this point, Night Mist and Peanut Butter had woken up next to each other in the streets of Canterlot. And for a long period of time they were trying to survive, first going to the orphanage before being literally thrown out after a time. Then trying to survive on the streets. Luna was in a state of shock and worry. These boys had been through more than their fare share of bad luck. And they needed her more than ever. After the Night Mist and Peanut Butter had taken their pills and eaten their breakfast, Luna once again, set them on her back and formed her wings into a bowl shape so her sons wouldn't fall off. She knew walking would have to wait a couple of weeks til they regained their strength. Once she put on their sun glasses and made it too the door way she heard from an all too familiar voice, "And where are you going?" "Oh, hello Tia. I was just about to take a stroll through Canterlot," Luna answered her sister. "And you didn't bother to introduce your little passangers to me before you left? The nerve little sister," Celestia teased. "Well, I didn't want to bother you during day court big sister," Luna said. "Hmhmhm, oh Luna, I was only playing with you, and day court wont begin til eleven o' clock today, since it is Sunday," Celestia informed her. "Oh, yes, that's right," Luna remembered. "And there's no need to worry. I know what you're up to little sister, and I think it's wonderful that you are going to raise these two little colts. I must say, I was surprised that these two little ones were found where they were," Luna said. "Well, there's more sister," Luna said. "Oh?" Celestia pondered. After introducing her sons to their new aunt Tia, Luna soon explained it to her quietly, not wanting her little ones getting all worried. Celesita was shocked herself. "Well, we better get going," Tia said. Before Luna could interject, Celestia pulled out ink and parchment out of nowhere and wrote a note, no doubt to inform the castle staff they would be gone until day court. Celestia soon cast a copy and teleportation spell, sending it to all the staff before motioning her sister to follow her out. As they walked they saw a few of Canterlot's populous wave at them and daw at the seen of the two little bat ponies. When they arrived at the orphanage, the caretakers were in an uproar about having bat ponies within their establishment. Celestia and Luna of course had the Royal Guard come by along with the Canterlot PD and escort the caretakers out. Some of the orphans were ones who recognized Peanut Butter and Night Mist and were happy to see they were alive. It hadn't taken long for the Princesses to call upon a dear friend of theirs, who wanted to personally take over the orphanage and make a happier place for all ponies, including those like the two new princes, who had just gained their ranks as the papers were signed by their mother Luna. Soon the Princesses were heading back to the castle with the little princes and knew that there would be much more to deal with Once they trotted inside. Night Mist and Peanut Butter were actually surprised to see other grown up ponies, aside from their new mom and aunt, keeping an eye on them. The Lunar Guards that were escorting the royal family were doing their job quite well. One pony, who seemed to have a sore spot for bat ponies, threw a tomato at the princes, only to have the guard use some skilled maneuvers, that sent the fruit right back into the pony's face, than have two more Solar guards put the pony in chains, for attempted assault of royalty. "Um..... what we have for lunch Mama?" Night Mist asked, as his tummy started to give away his hunger. "Well, mommy's gonna have some nice surprise treats brought up to the Lunar chambers for you, and if you're still hungry afterwards, Mommy can give you some of her milk," Luna replied. Night Mist and Peanut Butter tilted their heads. They didn't know Luna made her own milk, and wondered why they never saw cartons of it with her face as the logo. They usually just saw random cows on the logo. Celestia chuckled at the boys' confused looks, "Your mommy will explain later dears. But right now, we need to make sure we get you to the castle safely." "Otay," the boys replied in unison. As they reached the castle. Castle staff and royal guards treated them properly. One even announced all the royal family's names. Night Mist and Peanut Butter saw some of the Castle mades giggle as they looked at them. This made the two blush and hide their faces with their wings. "Timid little rascals aren't they?" Celestia commented. "I can't blame them. Mares giggling at how cute you look as a little one. It would make even the most emotionless stallion blush," Luna pointed out. "Too true," Celestia agreed. "Princess Celestia! Princess Luna!" Called one of the Guards. "Yes Silver Hoof, what is it?" Celestia asked. "I apologize for the short notice, but the Nobles have requested a meeting, concerning the two new princes. The news traveled so fast, no pony had time write up a scheduled area to take care of this. It would seem they want to resolve the matter quickly. Some nobles are not feeling positive about Luna's sudden adoption of the two Princes," Silver Hoof informed them. Celestia sighed, "I had a feeling this was going to occur. I know you don't want to leave your sons' side sister, but..." "No I understand. This has to be taken care of. It may be a pointless debate, but it needs to be resolved before things get out of hoof. Lady Vannila!" Luna called. A mare Lunar Guard came to Luna's side, "Yes your highness. How may I assist?" "Please have yourself and two of your fellow guards ponies see my sons safely to the Lunar Chambers, and keep an eye on them. I'll be along shortly as soon as the meeting with the nobles has concluded," Luna commanded. "Yes your majesty. We'll protect them with our lives. Shadow Wing, Star Blaze, with me," Vanilla commanded. "Yes ma'am!" They saluted, and hurried the two princes on Vanilla's back to the Lunar chambers. > A Pointless Debate and Peacful Conclusion. > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Nobles of Canterlot, as well as Princess Twilight Sparkle and Spike, and Princess Cadence and Shining Armor, who had received fast word of the recent development were all in attendance, mumbling in arguement about what Luna had taken action of. Celestia and Luna looked at each other and shook their heads in disappointment. They knew almost every noble would want to get their say in that matter. "Everypony Please," Celestia tried to grab their attention. The argument kept going on. "If you we could have some order here," Twilight tried. Still the conversations continued. It was as if the nobles didn't realize all the alicorn rulers were there. Discord popped in and stated, "I apolgize for the intrusion, but I could sense the Choas brewing all they way back in Ponyville. I haven't missed anything juicy have I?" Luna sighed, "Not yet Discord. Now if you'll excuse me........ SCIIIIILEEEENCE!!!!" The room went eerily quiet as everypony stared in the direction of the princesses and Discord, who had made a seat of his own for the meeting, and was currently rubbing his ear. "Forgot you had those kind of vocals Princess Luna," He admitted. Luna snorted, "Now that I have everypony's attention. We know why everypony is here today, so I shall skip the pointless statement of why the meeting was called. I know everyone wants to have their say, however, I shall let Princess Twilight speak first, for I know if I or Celestia were to take the first part of the conversation, our statement would be considered biased, based on the situation. Even Prince Blueblood's could be taken out of context." "I accept that reasoning Aunt Luna," Blueblood replied. Twilight than cleared her throat, "I recently received word this morning that Princess Luna had not only rescued, but adopted two foals she met last night. This comes from a source other than the princesses who wish to keep their name anonymous. I was also informed of the particular race of pony these two foals were, which are Batpony. They are a cousin branch of Pegasi, and most are known to be nocturnal, as I am sure everypony here is aware. Now, these ponies are few in number here in Equestria, and the fact that two were found to be in our nation's capital is astonishing from my perspective to say the least. This will most assuredly make headline news by tomorrow at the latest, if not sooner, along with Luna's adoption of the young colts. Now as for where I stand on this adoption. I have no quarrel with Princess Luna adopting her new charges." "Thank you Twilight. Now, as my sister has stated, I am sure everypony here wishes to speak their piece on that matter. That being said," Celestia was abruptly cut off as a pony interjected, "I would like to hear the opinion of Prince Blueblood on this matter first." The room went silent for a moment, and no pony made a disagreement. "Well, ahem, as you wish, Prince Blueblood, you may speak your piece," Princess Celestia insisted. "Thank you, Aunt Celestia. Now, I can not say that I am for or against the said adoption my Aunt, Luna has made. I have no opinion one way or the other about the cousin race of Bat Pony. I know very well some are part of the Lunar Guard, and that is reasonable, since we need proper guardianship of the Night. That duty can not fall squarely onto my Aunt, Princess Luna, as she also must see to the realm of dreams and many other matters to keep our nights safe. One thing I do not find pleasing at all, is the condition the two colts were found in," Blueblood stated. "Are you saying that you do not approve of they're looks being on Royal grounds," one unicorn noble inquired. "Not remotely what I meant. The boys were found very undernourished, and with no pony looking after them, here in our capital. The fact that any foal should have to go through such torment, I can not feel righteous, if I was aware of such knowledge. So, if I am saying anything, the act my Aunt had made was of a noble cause," Blueblood stated. Celestia was in a bit of a surprised state. She hadn't expected Blueblood to react like this, after his attitude at the Grand Galloping Gala with Rarity. She than said, "Thank you for your input Nephew. Now, who else would like to put forth their word?...... Yes, Lord Firemane." Firemane stood and inquired, "What of the rumors we hear that bat ponies are a remnant of Nightmare Moon's attempted takeover of Equestria? Are you willing to risk Equestria's safety by them being brought into the royal family?" "Those Rumors were completely false. Bat Ponies were around far before even Princess Luna's birth and crowning as a princess. To say they were unholy spawns of Nightmare Moon is unjustified," Princess Cadence interjected. "And if I may, I am the pony who was once Nightmare Moon. I may have been in a dark place, but I still had my mind in tact, so I would know of any dark entities I would have created. Rest easy to know that none exist," Luna defended herself. Fancy Pants, who was in attendance spoke, "I find the Bat Pony clan to be very interesting. The abilities that I have seen some of the Lunar Guard use, which I am sure we can give some credit to Prince Shining Armor for training, are a sight to behold. And I've seen a few foals myself of the bat pony kind. They can make even the most frustrated pony smile, just being in their presence. Even Lady Rarity herself has dedicated a line, both in child and adult wear to their race. So, I fail to see how these colts have no reason to be adopted, especially by dear Princess Luna." "I have heard stories that they are vicious, and will bite any pony who gets too close to them," A silver maned pegasus stated. "Lady Silver Streak. I feel you are going off of some old Nightmare Night stories, which were no more than a harmless prank some bat ponies played along with, but never really did any real harm to anypony. If bat ponies did ever try to bite someone, it would only be in self defense, or defense of their young. Bat Ponies have been known to be very close knit with their families. Some brothers and sisters living under the same roof in means of keeping an eye on each other. And foals. Even if they did try to bite someone, they're fangs are too fragile to do any damage to any pony. At best, it would feel like a baby puppy would be nibbling playfully on your hoof," Lord Flint Hoof stated. "But royalty can not simply go and adopt common orphans into their family," A black furred unicorn stated. Then arguement broke out again, and everyone was trying to speak over each other. "Oh, dear, not another Griffon Kingdom Fiasco," Tia put a hoof on her forhead. "What happened with the Griffons while I was away sister?" Luna inquired. "The less you know the better, Little Sister," Celestia advised. "Trust me, your really don't wanna know," Twilight added, having been present for that meeting. "Very well. Sister. I'll let you take the vocals this time," Luna offered. Celestia nodded, and Discord dropped his popcorn as he, Blueblood, Shining Armor, Spike, and the other three Princesses plugged their ears, Celestia Bellowed "ATTENTIOOOOOON!!!!" The nobles straigtened out their manes and attire as they all sat quietly, looking at Celestia with pupils the size of pins. "Thank you. Now, it would seem that the last statement got us all out of order, so, before anypony tries to make another claim whether or not my sister had a right to adopt the two colts in her care, I will make it clear right now, my fateful Student's number one assistant Spike, has helped to look through every law to be thorough about this, and I will let him state what we have found. Spike," Celestia insisted. "Wait, you're letting dragon, let alone, a child dragon speak," a gold furred pegasus argued. "Spike has been at Princess Twilight's side since the day she entered my school. He know's more about Equestria's laws than many here do, so yes, will let him speak," Celestia spat. "Thank you your highness," Spike bowwed. "Um, before I do let him continue, I would like to state that Spike was made an honerary member of the Sparkle Family, and was given the title lord. So, if you wish to speak to him directly, I suggest you address him as such," Princess Cadence informed everypony. "Um, well, as I was about to say, having looked through every law that was passed by Princess Celestia herself, and others co-signed by Luna, both pre and post banishment, apologies for the acknowledgement of that, Princess Luna," Spike apologized. "Forgiven, proceed," Luna assured him. "No law has ever been stated that a pony, be they noble or common, can not be adopted into royalty by Princess Celestia or Princess Luna. Nor does any law state that a particular race of pony can't be adopted by the Princesses either. And if I may be so bold to speak, rank, race, or species should not dictate how you view anyone, therefore, there is no reason Prince Night Mist and Prince Peanut Butter should be denied the right of being adopted by the princesses. You should judge someone based off personality. I know I've had my short comings of being too quick to judge, and I've done my best to atone for them," Spike stated. "Very well said, little brother Spike," Shining Armor applauded his dragon brother. Spike bowed, and returned to Twilight's side. "If I may ask Princess Luna, just out of curiosity. Why were the said names given to your charges?" Lady Fleur De Lis inquired. "Well, Prince Night Mist's coat and mane reminded me of the mist when I see it at night. And Prince Peanut Butter. Well, he had a sweet tooth for peanut butter flavored cookies, so you can see how he got his name," Luna informed them. This gained a lot of daws from the nobles in the crowd. "Well, I know I'm not really an expert on many of the pony ways, but from my perspective, I see this adoption as a great setup. Not just for the colts, but for Princess Luna as well. She'll have some company on her nights she keeps safe. Not that it's a huge effort for her, given the help she already has with her guard, but I can understand how lonely certain days can get with no pony at your side. I just hope you won't keep them too in line during the night. A good cake war now and again is quite amusing," Discord chuckled. This got many nobles, and the Princesses to laugh, themselves, remembering when Pinkie Pie got carried away with one of her parties, and Tia and Luna had ponies take side in a cake fight. No doubt Discord had a hoof, er, claw, er, maybe a paw in planning it. With no further argument on the matter, and complimenting Blueblood on showing his true nobility, and not his uptight attitude, the Royal Families made their way to Luna's chamber. When they entered, they found the adorable sight of Night Mist and Peanut Butter laying next to Lady Vanilla. Vanilla Stood, Saluted the families as they came in. "Your majesty I hope you don't mind. They're bellies were starting to rumble, and after they took their medication, we had no other means of giving them nourishment, so, I had to..." Vanilla was cut short, as Luna covered her mouth. "I understand Vanilla. I asked you to look after them, and your maternal instincts kicked in, so you let them nurse from you," Luna deduced. "Y-Yes your majesty. I hope you don't," Again, she was cut off by Luna. "I'm not mad at all Vanilla. I am glad you want above and beyond what I expected of you. Which is one reason I chose you for this," Luna stated. "Um..... one.... reason?" Vanilla inquired. "I shall tell you at a later time. But for now, if you and your fellow guard wish to take your leave, I shall not keep you," Princess Luna informed her. "Well, I can see this is a bit of family get together, so, I shall take my leave with Shadow Wing and Star Blaze," She stated, and soon trotted out of the Lunar chambers. Once the Lunar Chamber doors were shut, the whole family, even Prince Blueblood, dawed at the sight, as Luna lay down next to her two tiny charges, and layed her wing protectively over them as they slept, signaling the rest to keep their voices down for the time being. > Meeting The Element Bearers > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Peanut Butter and Night Mist soon opened their eyes to see the entirety of the Royals families looking at them. Night Mist crawled underneath Luna's wing, to stay out of sight, while Peanut Butter used his wings to hide his blush. "Aww, timid little rascals," Shining teased. "Well what do you expect. They're just toddlers. And seeing so many faces at once can be a little nerve racking," Cadence explained. Peanut Butter was soon brave enough to fold his wings back and look at everyone. "Aww, there's that cute little face Luna told me so much about," Cadence dawwed. Night Mist still stayed under Luna's wing, extremely shy, almost as shy as Fluttershy. Luna maneuvered her head under her wing to nuzzle Night Mist. "It's okay sweetie, don't be frightened. No pony here is gonna harm you. They just wanna see how cute you are," Luna assured him. "But Mama, I.... I....." Night Mist couldn't finish as he started to tear up, and stood a bit to show he had made a wet spot on the living room bed. When Luna saw it, she realized that the sight of all the royals at once gave him a scare. And now she knew that Night Mist didn't have complete control of his bladder. It honestly didn't surprise her, with the condition she had found him and Peanut Butter in to begin with. She nuzzled him once more. "Shhh, it's alright. Accidents happen sweetie. Come, I'll take you to the bathroom and we'll get you in some protection, okay?" Luna stated, as she used her magic to clear evidence of the wet spot, so he wouldn't feel so embarrassed. Night Mist sniffed, "Otay Mama." Luna soon, pulled her head out and said to the others, "Please excuse me and Night Mist for a moment. We need to take care of something. Peanut Butter, are you okay with your aunts and uncle watching you while I'm gone for a moment?" Luna inquired. Peanut nodded, and soon Luna grabbed Night Mist by the nape of his neck and carried him to the bathroom. "Twilight chuckled, "I see Night Mist is the tiny one. That must mean Peanut Butter here is the big brother." Peanut Butter chuckled as Twilight Sparkle ruffled his mane. Just then there was a knock on the door outside the Lunar Chambers. "Now who could that be?" Celestia inquired. "Oh, I hope you don't mind, but not long after they heard the news, my friends insisted on visiting and seeing the new princes. I felt it would be wrong of me to get the privilege to meet them, on not my friends," Twilight informed them. "I suppose that is a fine point, but I would advise that you let us know ahead of schedule that they'll be coming," Celestia insisted. "Noted Princess Celestia," Twilight blushed. Soon, the doors opened and it reveal the colorful herd of the Element bearers, and Sunset Shimmer. Peanut Butter coward back a little at the new comers, not used to getting so much attention. Just then Luna entered back into the living room, carrying Night Mist again, this time with a youth diaper. It allowed him to maneuver freely, while still being able to prevent accidents, and to make it look more styish, it was decorated with moons and stars. Fitting since he was a child of the night. This recieved many daaws from the whole group, even Prince Blueblood, as Luna laid back down on the bed with Night Mist and Peanut Butter. "My, these two boys are rather dashing little colts. I can see many mares falling for them in the future. But, I think for the time being, they need to have something to make them look adorable. Um, Princess Luna, if I may," Rarity asked as she pulled out a tape measure. "By all means Miss Rarity," Luna permitted. Night Mist and Peanut Butter watched and even giggled as Rarity doing her fast paced measuring of them tickled a bit. When she was done, she stated, "I'll be back in a flash dears." With that she galloped off, and everypony presumed it was to her Canterlot Boutique. "Well, I have to say with those style wings, if they work hard at it, they may be just as awesome as me when they get older," Rainbow Dash stated, trying to keep her daaws in check, to look tough. "Now Rainbow, Don't go gettin any idears to make them Wonder Bolts yet. You understand they've been through a rough time," Applejack tried to reel Rainbow Dash in. "Yeah, I know. I still can't believe that ponies would do such things to them. If I ever meet any of those ponies up close, I'm gonna m-," Rainbow was cut off as her mouth was magically shut tight. "Not around the little ones Dash. They don't need to worry their little heads about those things," Twilight stated before releasing Rainbow's muzzle from her magical grip. "I must admit, it's the first time I've actually laid eyes on bat ponies myself, let alone a foal bat pony. Makes them all the more cuter," Sunset admitted. Night Mist covered his face with his wings to hide his blush. "Oh, where did little Prince Night Mist go?" Sunset teased. She leaned in closer and bumped her nose gently to his, making him move his wings slowly back to look at her. "Aww, there he is," She cooed. Night Mist giggled and booped her nose with his tiny hoof. "Oh... he got me," Sunset joked as she acted as if she had her sense knocked about, and fell to the floor. "Whoop, mare down," Applejack chuckled. Night Mist crawled towards the edge of the bed, only to have Sunset pop up and say, "Boo!" Night Mist jumped and laughed at the surprise jump, as he fell onto his back. This proved adorably fatal as Cadence took a turn to torture her new nephew and give him belly blasts. Night Mist flailed his legs helplessly as he laughed from the belly blast attack. Peanut Butter began to trot across the bed to try and help his little brother, only to have Celestia grab him in her magic. "Oh, you thought you could get spared and save little Nighty," Celestia deviously smiled, before she used her wing to tickle Peanut Butter. Both foals now were laughing uncontrollably. After the princesses felt their nephews had enough, both the colts toddled back to Luna for motherly protection from any further tickle tortures. Fluttershy blushed, "They're just as cute as baby fruit bats." "Yeah, when they're not terrorizing the Apple Orchard, I'll have to agree. Don't let me catch you two sneakin onto the farm and causin some mischief," Applejack joked as she ruffled their manes. "We won'ts," they said together. Everypony thought it was cute that they still had they're babyish talk, even if they were 4-5 years of age. Just then Rarity trotted in, and stated, "Well, it took a little longer, but I finally made something fit for these adorable little royals." Rarity revealed two onesie pajama's. The larger one had had red color to it, with peanut butter jar and peanut butter cookie designs all over it. Obviously for Peanut Butter himself. and the smaller one was a black color, with the moon behind some mist like clouds patterened all over it. "Oh Rarity, they're adorable. How much will they be?" Luna inquired. "Oh, no charge your majesty. Think of this as a gift for the Little Princes for their welcoming into the royal family," Rarity stated. Night Mist and Peanut Butter just started blankly at the PJ's, as if they were in a trance. "Well, let's see if we can try them on," Luna insisted. The boys were excited to get into their new attire. Once they were fitted on, the boys felt as if they were being hugged by the fluffiest cloud. They then started prancing around in their new attire. "I see they love them," Rarity stated. "Indeed. I actually doubt the boys will want to part with them for a long while. It will make all of Equestria who have level heads coo over them even more," Blueblood said. Just then, Peanut Butter and Night Mist passed out into a little foal pile right next to Luna. "Whoop. Looks like all that excitement finally did them in. Shhh," Luna gestured with her hoof. Luna gently levitaged the two of them and took them to the cirb area she had set up in her room. She knew they were not baby foals, but with their condition, it was more of a precaution so they not hurt themselves. As the two boys slept on in dreamland, Luna cast a spell to cover their adorable ears from loud noises and another to keep their dreams peaceful, and keep the bad memories away. Then she trotted out and began to converse with the her family and friends. She hadn't seen a form of chaos had been hiding in the room, ready to perform an adorable prank. > A Plushified Prank > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- While the royalty and the the Element Bearers talked about the party Pinkie Pie was prepping for the two colts, within the room, there was a figure no pony assumed would be there. It wasn't Discord. He was with the others as well, trying to come up with a humorous game, on the request of Princess Celestia. But this figure was a relation of his. She saw the two boys asleep peacefully, and commented to herself, "Such adorable things these two, and I have to compliment Rarity on her designs. But these two are getting so much boring attention. Nothing exciting." She looked around the room, thinking, trying to figure something out, go give these two an excitement they wouldn't soon forget. Then she saw it, and put her plan in motion. Then, with a zap of her horn, she disappeared. As she did so, Discord wiggled in a silly fashion. "Oh dear," he commented, with a bit of a concerned look. Celestia's face went pale. "I've seen that look before Discord. What has caught you're attention?" she inquired. "Well, it would appear that my little sister has decided to have a bit of fun at the moment," Discord answered. "Wait! You have a sister?!" Twilight gasped. "Whoops, I forgot to mention that to you eight, didn't I?" Discord blushed, remembering to include Spike and Sunset who were present as well, with the Element bearers. "Well, all four of us did. I guess we were so focused on reforming you, Eris sort of slipped our minds," Celesia admitted. "You knew he had a sibling?" Rainbow Dash asked as her jaw dropped. "Yes, we did. However, unlike her older brother, Eris was just a prankster. While she still loves a little chaos, she was more for harmony then her older brother. Who do you think helped us discover the Elements of Harmony after Starswirl disappeared. She tutored under him as well, even if Stygian found her a bit frustrating as an alicorn," Luna stated. All of Twilight's herd of friends and Blueblood's jaws dropped. "Eris is an Alicorn?!" "Yes, she is my, how do I say it, counterbalance if you will. Like how Luna is Celestia's counterbalance. While I spread love and a touch of harmony in my own way, Eris has to keep that in check with a little bit of chaos and Discord, but her balance is kept in check, unlike how Discord's chaos was spread with no restraint. Sometimes I think he did it out of jealousy of his sister being chosen by Starswirl over him. Reason she's not known to many is because she doesn't like appearing in public. I mean, if you look at the ponies of the past, and how Luna's reputation was regarded, you can imagine what it could have been like for Eris, if Ponies knew of her. Even these days she keeps herself hidden in public eye, only revealing herself to those she can trust," Cadence explained. "But getting back to why I pressed concern. It would appear she's chosen her target for a pranking," Discord stated. Luna's eyes went wide, and she dashed for the bedroom where her son's were asleep a moment ago. Shen she opened the door, what she saw made her gasp. "Woow!" Night Mist bellowed in a happy manner, as he was tossed up in the air by a plushified Nightmare Moon doll, one Luna had won at a Nightmare Night celebration, it was life sized too, now moving on it's own. She watched in a moment of shock and terror, as Night Mist disappeared into it's pluchified jaws and down it's throat. It made a burp before turning towards Luna and the others. "Let them go, Now!" Luna demaned, restraining herself not to use her Royal volume, in risk of hurting her little ones. "Oh, but Peanut Butter and Night Mist are having fun in there. Listen," Nightmare Plush insisted. Muffled sounds of joyous laughter and the word "bouncy" being repeated in a cute tone could be heard as they saw Nightmare Plush's belly wiggle about. "Now why would I take away their fun?" Nightmare Plush asked. "You have to admit, she makes a good point Luna," Discord stated. "It's your fault she had enough time to even do this. She needs to let them out," Luna stated. "If you want to get them out. You have to catch me first," Nightmare Plush stated as she spread her plush wings, and took off with ease to the air, zooming past everypony. "Guards! Stop that Plush!" Celestia demanded. The Guards and even Shining Armor made a dash after Nightmare Plush, with the royals not far behind. Twilight and her friends devised a plan to catch her, by heading out the balcony window, and down to the ground with their wings and magic, getting everyone there safely. Spike had his own idea, knowing a few shortcuts to catch up to Nightmare Plush. Meanwhile, in Nightmare Plush's belly, Night Mist and Peanut Butter were staring at what appeared to be a fun room, fit for little colts their age. Eris may be a prankster, but she was no mare of torture, so while they had fun in the fun room, The Herds of Royalty and Elements were trying to keep up with Nightmare Plush. She did all kinds of Twists and turns, causing a few guards to get into collisions and pile ups with each other. It was causing Luna to worry. Until finally, they came to a halt in the Princess's private kitchen, where Nightmare Plush was standing there, and the two bat pony colts were hugging her and giggling, and everypony else had a look of surprise on their faces. "Well, it took you long enough," said another voice. Everyone looked to their left to see Eris, Discord's little sister, alicorn with a mixture of colors that made her look like someone had used paint on her, but blended quite nicely, since she did originally descend from a paint class of Earth Pony. "Eris, I thought we agreed not to frighten the Princesses and give them heart attacks," Discord snapped. "Oh big brother, they're immortal. Giving them a good scare is fun once in a while. That's why I explained what would happen to the boys before you all barged into the room. Did you two have fun in the fun room?" Eris asked. The boys nodded. "Tank yous Auntie Eris," Night Mist gestured. "You're very welcome," Eris replied as she nuzzled both of the colts. "Wait, fun room? They were swallowed by a plush doll that took on a life of it's own," Luna stated, thinking there'd be nothing but fluff surrounding the boys, though a fun room would explain why they had been chanting the word, bouncy. "It's a new thing I wanted to unveil for the upcoming Nightmare Night. A little excitement to add to the celebration. While I haven't made a choice to mass produce this attraction yet, Nightmare Plush is to let ponies have a good time, after getting a chase by Nightmare Moon, should she find the candy offer not up to par. Inside, it could hold many a pony, on the outside, she only has a fairly distended looking belly, making her still able to chase after other ponies. Now, of course I would let ponies know ahead of time what Nightmare Plush is all about, so that they're not panicking that Nightmare Moon is actually gobbling up ponies. Night Mist and Peanut Butter just got an early experience, and I got to have a good laugh seeing you chase her," Eris stated. "But, you can always ask me to go back to being a normal plush. If you feel too upset to let this continue I understand," Nightmare Plush stated. "No Mama, please. Don't make her a normal Plushie. She's fun," Peanut Butter pleaded. Luna looked at her boys' faces of pleading. It was the one face that would make even the most stubborn mare break face. They seemed so happy to have a plush toy they could interact with. Even if she was a memory of Luna's dark self. And the Plush had no ill intentions. Just a playful personality. Perhaps it was best to let her stay as she was, help get the boys more social in a way. "Alright. I'll let you stay as you are. Besides. I do think that having a live plush give new experience that still leads to a good time, is actually a good idea. They could create all sorts of games with this for the celebration. However, I request a few minor alterations, and a slight request," Luna stated, as she motioned Eris and Nightmare Plush to her. She whispered something to the two alicorns, and each held a look of surprise. "Luna, that's down right devious. I didn't know you had that kind of mischief in you. I like it," Eris stated. "I agree. Ready Eris?" Nightmare Plush asked. "Ready," Eris stated. With that, she flared up her horn, and then there was a flash, which Luna was quick to shield the boys' eyes from. Once it died down, Nightmare Plush stated, "Thank you Eris. I'll be off for now. I have to take care of something." With that she flew out of the room, and Tia looked at Luna, in which she asked, "What exactly, did you ask Nightmare Plush to do?" "Oh, you'll find out in due time sister. So Eris, any reason why you led us to the private kitchen?" Luna inquired. "Well, I had made two desserts, one to welcome the young colts into the royal family," Eris stated. "And the other?" Cadence pondered. They watched as a cake was thrown into Blueblood's face. After most fell to the floor he stood there, not reacting. "I'm supposing you didn't deserve that?" Rarity scoffed. "No, that one I deserved," Blueblood admitted. Eris nodded, and informed them, "He stole my favorite book. And then got it locked away in the restricted section by mistake. I've been trying to get access there, but the librarians there know me all too well, even with disguises, and think I'm trying to get there for other means." "Why didn't you let us know?" Celestia inquired. "I was waiting for Blueblood to own up to his mistake and get back for me. But he always finds some scapegoat to prolong it's stay," Eris answered. Tia looked at Blueblood with a frown of disappointment. "You are going to get her book back tomorrow, and no excuses this time," she ordered. "Yes Aunt Celestia," Blueblood agreed. "Anyways. Now that that is out of the way, why don't we all have some cake. And don't worry Luna, I got the boy's medication right here," Eris stated. Soon, after Night Mist and Peanut Butter took their medication, Luna placed bibs on each of them, so not to get their adorable pajamas dirty, and let the two of them have the first slices. "You know Pinkie Pie will be super displeased about this," Discord stated. "Displeased? She's the one who made the cake. She calls it the Lunar Eclipse Special. She demanded to make it, then presumed the party planning for tomorrow. She's exited times ten about it," Eris let him know. "She's always excited times ten when it comes to planning parties. I think this will be times twenty," Discord guessed. With that, they all dug into cake, while Nightmare Plush proceeded with Luna's request. What that was, no pony knew but Luna and Eris.