> A Hero's Rebirth > by Lunar_Star > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > The Coming Of A Hero > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- A young man was sleeping soundly in his bed, he had just slowly opened his eyes and seen a dark tall figure hovering over him. He lay there for a moment, frozen in shock. His eyes scan the shape of the figure in the darkness, only the light of the moon shown through his window outlined the creature before him. “A unicorn?” He said groggily. He quickly grabbed the katana beside his bed but was too late to do anything else as the dark figure touched its horn to his head and a wash of light came over him. “Your powers are needed now. Go forth and uphold your oath.” It was then the young man blacked out. It was some time before he awoke and groaned, slowly sitting up. As he did, a shape twinge of pain shot through his head having him bring his hands to his head. “Ah damn what the hell my head feels like its splitting open.” As he sat there in pain before he picked up on the sound of what he could tell were clopping hooves. He turned his head and quickly figured out that he was not in his room anymore. Hell he wasn’t even in his house anymore. He was outside and from what he could tell was a forest path. The sound of hooves grows closer and the young man figured it might be a carriage that he knows all to well where he is from. He slowly gets to his feet and moves to the side of the forest path, awaiting whoever was coming but as the one he awaited started to come into view he could not believe his eyes. It was a unicorn, specifically a light purple unicorn. Her mane and tail where both straight cut with a highlight of purple and pink against the darker blue. Her eyes were a deeper shade of purple and she carried what he could tell was a saddle bag on either side of her back. The little unicorn drew closer before she spotted the young man standing on the side of the path. “Oh my are you... are you a human?” She trotted up to him and looked him over before speaking again. “You are a human I knew it. But wait a minute I thought humans where myths? What are you or more importantly how did you get here.” She stared at him for a moment or two before he spoke. The young man groaned and held his head with his hand. “Look Twilight, I would like it much better if we where out of this crazy forest.” Indeed he knew who she was. The young man was one of the many fans of the shown portraying the adventure of this unicorn and her friends. “How? How did you know my name?” She saw his actions and noticed he was in some kind of pain. “Oh you must be hurt, here follow me back to my home. I’ll see what I have to help you with that. Maybe then you can tell me just how you know me.” The young man leaned back down and grabbed his sword and followed the mare through the forest. But as soon as they took a few steps, the ground rumbled. The two stopped dead in his tracks and turn to see what made the noise. Not seeing anything they continue their trek but again the ground shook. “Ok now what in the name of the stars was that?” “I’m not sure. There are a number of things in the Everfree forest so I can’t say for sure.” The two wait for a moment before the ground shook once more. “An impact termor. Whatever it is it’s big, really big.” The two hardly had time to react as a large head lunged for them. It struck the ground just beside them, launching the two in different directions.The human shook his head as he looked up to see the creature’s face. Getting to his feet the young man drew his sword and readied himself as the beast lunged again for him. He quickly side-stepped and swung a horizontal cut at its neck but it did very little. “Damn it.” As if on instinct he sheathed his sword and swung his hand around and closed his eyes. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Meanwhile in the capital city of Canterlot a large white winged unicorn mare stood out on her balcony. Several hard knocks came to her door and before she even had a chance to move, the door swung open and in ran a dark blue winged unicorn mare. “Sister did thou feel that?” The larger mare looked over her shoulder to her sister. “Indeed I did Luna. It came from the Everfree Forest.” Luna trotted over to her sister. “That power, we had not felt it in so very long. Doth thou think it could be...him?” “I am not sure little sister. The signature is very similar if not a perfect match.” The older sister looked down to Luna. “It has been so long since he was taken from us. So long since we have seen his face or been in his presence.” She leaned against her sister’s side to which the white mare opened her wing and draped it over her sister. “He gave his life for us Luna we can not ever forget that.” “But if there is a chance that after more then a millenia he has returned to us, would thou not take it?” She looked up to her elder sister. “You know better then to ask that Luna. You among all ponies know the pain I have felt since his passing. If there was a chance that he was somehow given back to us, you know as well as I that I would go to any length to find out the truth. But we have an image to uphold and though I would wish to do otherwise we have to take steps to find out.” She left the balcony and walked back into her room and over to a pedestal. Using her magic he brought over a piece of parchment, an inkwell and a quill she then began to write. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Twilight groaned before she slowly rose to her hooves. She shook the dirt from her mane and knocked whatever might have gotten in her ears. As she looked around to see if the human she had met was ok, her eyes went wide at what she saw. What had struck them was a Hydra, more specifically one of it’s heads. But as of now that was a moot point because the large beast was now floating in the air and surrounded by an aura of deep purple. She looked over to the human she had seen earlier and noticed that his hand was glowing in the same color. As she continued to watch, the young human moved his hand with a flick of his wrist and tossed the hydra a great distance then dropped to his knees then to his face. Twilight galloped over to the fallen human and nudged him with her hoof. “Hey are you ok? Wake up. Please wake up.” She looked him over and noticed his chest rising and falling. He was alive just might have passed out from the use of his magic. But it was strange, from what she read about humans, they weren’t suppose to be able to use magic. Seeing that the human she met was not moving and she did not want to leave him there, she thought for a moment. “Uh duh I have magic.” Giggling to herself because of her own forgetfulness, her horn began to glow and it generates and aura around the man and his sword. She then trots off back to her home With the young human and his weapon floating behind her. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Sister it’s gone now, the power from the Everfree forest is gone? Might something have happened?” Luna turned to look at her sister as she laid by the fire. It was slowly becoming sundown and Luna would have to preform her duty and raise the moon as she had down every night since her return. The elder mare looked over to her sister. “No Luna. I have faith that whatever has transpired, it is not of ill intent.” She was looking into the fire and did not even turn her head to look at her sister when she spoke. Luna once again joined her elder sister. “Celestia, we understand how you must feel. We too were there when he was struck down.” Celestia was always good at hiding her pain and grief from her subjects. It was not right for them to see their ruler falter. But though immortal, she was not without feeling. Feeling that even in the large bedroom lit only by the fire, her sister could see. Celestia’s eyes were hidden by her flowing mane but even so, a soft whimper and tears dripped past her mane and onto the rug below. The young princess of the night leaned and nuzzled her elder sister. She was doing all she could to comfort her. They had known their champion ever since they were foals. The three of them were very close, nigh inseparable. Luna looked out of her sister’s balcony and saw that it was her time to raise the moon as she had always done. She nuzzled her sister again before she spoke. “Tia we must preform our duties now. Get some sleep, we shall be return when the moon is at its apex” With those words the moon princess rose to her hooves and opened her wings before dashing to the balcony and into the air. Celestia was alone once more. It was just as it was that very long time ago. Lunar had been killed defending the kingdom from an invading horde. Sometime later she had to banish her only sister. For over a thousand years before Luna’s return she had to carry on alone. Everyday and night felt worse as the years grew. Finally when Luna had returned, a part of her did as well. She loved her sister deeply and would have done anything for her, Luna knew that but the part she needed, the part of her she truly missed and wanted back the most was that of the one she thought about spending her eternal life with. Using her magic she opened a drawer from a nightstand on the far end of the room beside her bed. She removed a box then closed the drawer. The box floated over to her and then hovered in front of her. Using her magic to open it she looked inside to its contents. Inside was a bracelet made of a mixture of platinum and gold. The bracelet was studded with diamonds and sapphire. Along side it was a note to which she removed and read. Dearest Celestia We have known each other a very long time and in that time both you and I have grown close to one another. I know it is not right of me to do this, you a beautiful princess and I just your humble knight. But I feel as though if I do not tell you how I feel then my heart might very well burst from my chest and I don’t think the servants would take kindly to cleaning up Alicorn remains. Celestia giggled softly and sniffed, holding back her tears as she read that part. Celestia, dear kind Celestia. I love you, I love you like the grass loves the warmth from the life giving sun. I love you like the moon loves the stars. I would not be who I am without you beside me. You mean everything to me. I would gladly give up my immortality if I knew that I could spend just one more day in your loving embrace. Nothing brings me more joy then to see you in the mornings, to know you are the last thing I see in the evenings, to hear you laugh at my lame jokes. Without you my love, my life would have no meaning, no purpose. This bracelet that I have enclosed is not very much but when I seen it I knew it would only look better if it were on you. Everything about it screams of the love I have for you. When you look upon it I hope that you are reminded of its brilliance, and me. Yours Eternally and a day Lunar Star As she folded the note back up and placed it within the box, tears welled back up into her eyes and she then buried her face into her hooves and wept. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The young human slowly came to but as he awoke he noticed that he was no longer in the forest. It took him a moment to collect himself before he realized he was in bed. “Maybe it was just a dream.” As he was about the go back to sleep, he was stopped by the sound of snoring. He quickly sat up and looked around before the sight of what he could see as a sleeping baby dragon. “Spike, always sawing logs.” He looked over to the bed across from him and seen it was empty. He looked down from the loft and could see lights that were on from downstairs. He had slowly gotten out of bed and climbed down from the loft. He slowly made his way down the stairs until he heard the clopping of hooves and soft muttering. He soon reached the bottom of the steps and leaned against the side of the doorway. He watched as the purple unicorn walked back and forth, scanning through books and talking to herself. With a gentle knock on the frame work, it snapped the unicorn from her book which she dropped in surprise and turned fast to stare at the human now before her. “Oh good you’re awake. For a while there I wasn’t sure if you were going to open your eyes anytime soon.” “I... don’t remember what happened. The last thing I recall was that thing, whatever it was, attacking us. I tried to use my sword but nothing happened.” He gripped his left wrist and rubbed it. “Well that thing was a Hydra. It must have herd us and decided that we would be something on it’s menu. But you took care of it with your magic. I mean really, I was impressed. I didn’t think humans were able to use magic. But you did and just tossed that Hydra away like it was nothing. Then you passed out and I brought you here.” She smiled to him. “You’re saying I used magic?” He walked over to her and leaned against the center table. Twilight’s head nodded. “Oh yes, I will never forget that. But one thing I don’t understand, how did you know my name. I mean I have read all that there is about Equestria’s history and not one thing was mentioned about humans ever living here.” “Well as you could have guessed, I am not from here. I was somehow brought here. I still don’t yet by whom but the last thing I can remember was that it said. My power was needed and that I needed to uphold my oath, whatever that means.” He sighed softly. “How did you know my name anyway? We have never met before today and I think I would remember meeting a human.” She used her magic to pick up the book she was reading and placed it on the table. “Well that’s a bit hard to explain but here goes. Where I come from there is a show which features yourself, your five friends. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. It is a show made for little kids and they portray your little adventures.” Again he rubbed his left wrist. “So wait, you’ve been observing us?” The human shook his head. “No not at all. The whole thing is drawn by artists called animators. It’s basically a cartoon for children.” He looked to the little unicorn and seen she was trying to piece together everything he said. “Look it’s not important, just know that I know whom you are. As for me, name’s Tom but my friends call me Stargazer or Star for short if you want.” “Well ok Star since this is your first time here in Equestria, allow me to give you a tour though we will have to wait till morning.” The young unicorn yawned softly. “I think it best we get some sleep.” Twilight nodded and both her and her human friend retire for the night. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Elsewhere however, evil stirs. Two shadowy figures stand on top of a crumbling tower “Are you certain of this?” The taller of the two shadow’s speak. The other nods. “Great that’s all we need. If Lunar is here this is going to make things a bit difficult for his majesty.” > A Hero's Path > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dear Twilight Sparkle, my faithful student It has come to my attention that an odd occurrence has transpired within the Everfree Forest. I would like you and your friends to investigate this for me as I am unable to do so myself. Take great care however as I know that there are dangers within those trees. I will be awaiting your full report upon your return from the Everfree forest. Your mentor Princess Celestia of Equestria That was the letter that Twilight had received the next morning from her teacher Celestia. Tom was still sleeping before the sun came through the window and laid upon his face. He scrunched his face in discomfort before slowly opening his eyes. Giving a long yawn, he sat up in bed and looked around himself. “Oh yeah, I’m in Ponyville.” He yawns again before slipping off the covers and sitting on the side of the bed. “Oh good morning. You’re finally awake. I woundered if you were planning on sleeping through the day.” Twilight was busy looking through any books that she had on the tales of humans. “Well yesterday was a bit weird.” He started to slip on his boots before getting up and stretching his back. “The princess asked that I go and check on something that happened in the Everfree forest. I think she might be reffering to you and your ability to use magic. But just to be sure I’ll take a look anyway.” Tom hopped down from the loft and landed just behind the unicorn. “Eek!” Twilight turned her head around and looked up to him. “Don’t do that. You scared me, I thought you might have fallen.” He chuckled and shook his head. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to spook you. anyway if you are going back into those woods, mind if I tag along. I think I have just as much reason to find out why I am here as much as anyone.” He looked up to see that his sword was still sitting beside his bed and he sighed. “Man. Now I have to get back up there and get it.” “Oh I don’t think you will need that. Besides, my friends are coming over shortly. The princess asked that I take them as well.” “Right, who else but the Elements of Harmony.” “Here you are Twilight, it’s the book you were looking for.” The little dragon toddled over to the unicorn, a large book in his claws. He looked over to the human leaning against a bookshelf who smiled and waved. “Uh Twilight he’s not dangerous right? I mean he has that thing you brought with him.” “It’s called a sword Spike and yes you are perfectly safe. Star would not hurt you, he’s just confused about how he got here.” Spike gave the human a quizzical look before shrugging it off and returning to his duties. Tom was thinking back to what Twilight said about him using magic. “H-hey Twilight, about what you said last night. You know me using magic? Do you have any idea how it happened?” The young unicorn tapped her hoof to her chin in thought. “Hmm now that I think about it, no I can’t say that I do. Magic comes from within and it only happens when you decide it to. It’s not something that’s given, you have to be born with it.” “I see.” He looked to the floor in thought. Back home he was always a loner, someone who didn’t have many friends and normally kept to himself. “Is there anyway you think I could try again?” “Well I am still learning about magic myself but sure, I could show you a basic movement spell that all unicorns use to move objects. It’s how I brought you here.” She looked around the room before spotting the pile of books she had. “Here, see those pile of books there. Think you can move them?” Tom walked up beside Twilight and looked at the books. “Ok now close your eyes and think only of that pile of books. Picture nothing else in you mind.” He nodded. “Now since it seemed as though you don’t have a horn to amplify your magic, try using your hoof... I mean your hand.” Again Tom nodded and held his hand out to the pile of books on the floor. “Good now picture yourself picking up the book from the top of the pile and placing it on the table next to it.” Doing as he was instructed he saw himself in his mind, picking up the top book and placing it upon the table. Upon doing this, his hand glowed with the same purple aura. The top book slowly floated into the air. Being curious, Tom opened his eyes slowly then went wide eyed as the book floated in the air before him. He moved his had slowly and the book followed. He moves the book over to the table and thought of himself letting the book go, to which his magic acted accordingly and the book dropped to the table. Twilight clopped her hooves together as she saw this display. “Oh my gosh you did it and you made it look so easy. Are you sure you haven’t done this before?” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Back in Canterlot, a quill and parchment dropped to the ground. Celestia stood, her eyes wide and her mouth opened. She felt the same surge as last night. “Lunar...” She spoke in a hushed tone. Now there was no denying it this time, it had to be him. “Guard!” The princess shouted. A white pegasus, dress in golden armor came through the door into the princess’s study. “Yes your highness.” “Is my sister asleep?” She looked to him over her shoulder. “Not as of yet your majesty, She was just about to return to her bed chambers.” Celestia turned to face the guard who stood before her. “Tell my sister that I wish to see her at once. Have her meet me at the north tower.” The guard dipped his head in respect and departed. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was sometime later that Twilight’s friends had arrived but things didn’t get off to a good start. As Tom had gone to open the door for them, Rainbow Dash had tackled him to the ground. Luckily for him Twilight was able to explain everything. “So let me get this straight. The princess asked us to go and check on something that happened last evening in the Everfree Forest and you believe it to be this guy?” Rainbow Dash pointed to Tom. “Hey I’m not this guy. I have a name you know.” Tom stood his ground with a large bruise on his arm. “Oh yeah how about I call you mud or would you like another beating.” The cyan pegasus floated before him. “You caught me off guard once. That won’t happen a second time.” The two then growled at each other and readied to fight before Twilight stepped between them. “Enough, both of you. You’re both acting like foals.” Twilight looked to Rainbow. “Yes, she asked us to see what was going on. I am not sure if it has anything to do with Star’s arrival but we will do it anyway incase there is anything that might put Equestria at risk.” “Ah fer one agree wit Twilight. If there is anything that can threaten Equestria I say we find out what.” Applejack looked over to Tom, scanning him before looking at her friends. “Besides if he can use magic he might come in handy.” “Well honestly girls I only just discovered I can use magic. As it stands thanks to Twilight, all i can do is move objects. I don’t even know any spells or anything.” Tom said rubbing the bruise on his arm. “Well that’s just great, what good are you then?” Tom looked back to the rainbow maned pegasus and narrowed his eyes. “Hey I might not be as good at magic as Twilight and Rarity but i still have this.” He holds up his katana. “And i do know how to use it.” “Everypony please, must we resort to such barbaric means. I am sure that whatever it is the princess wishes for us to find will not come down to such force.” Rarity trotted up to Tom and looked him over. He wore a black tank top and black jeans and boots. “Also, black is very slimming darling.” Tom blushed softly at the compliment. “Look we don’t have time for this, lets just go and see if we can find anything ok?” The six of them nodded. “Good. Spike stay here and watch the library. We’ll be back as soon as we can. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Celestia stood at the top of a long spiral staircase. The wind blew gently through her long flowing mane. She looked out over the countryside of her kingdom. A soft flutter of feathers and a coo later, Celestia’s pet phoenix, Philomena lands on her mistress’s back. Celestia turns her head to the fire bird and smiled as she nuzzled her side. The phoenix then sits upon Celestia’s back, getting comfortable. It was not long after that that the sound of hooves moving up the stair reaches the princess’s ears. Luna comes up behind her sister and yawns softly. “Sister what is the meaning of this? One of the guards said that thou wished to speak with us.” “He is here Luna.” Luna’s eyes widened before she looked up to her elder sister. “So that power we felt last evening. The one in the Everfree Forest, that was Lunar?” The sun princess nodded her head. “Yes I am sure of it now. I felt his power again, this time it was closer. I believe that it was coming from Ponyville.” “Then come we must make haste if we are to catch him before anything...” Luna’s sister cut her off as she hopped on the stone railing surrounding the balcony. She had her wings open and was about to take to the air. “No Luna. We can not. I have already sent a message to Twilight to investigate the Everfree Forest in hopes of finding anything. We shall await her response. When I receive her letter I will request that she brings whatever it is that she finds to us.” “But...” “No buts Luna. I know how you feel, believe me. But we must let him come to us.” Celestia was fighting against herself. On the side she wanted nothing more then to find Lunar and never let him go. But then on the other, she was a princess and had to act accordingly. So even though it pained her not to go to him, she knew that he would eventually find his way...home. Luna hopped from the railing, landing beside her sister. “Very well dear sister but when he dose, do not stop us from rejoicing.” “I would be inclined to join you Luna.” She then seen her sister yawn once more. “Go and get some sleep Luna. I will have one of the maids wake you when it’s time.” The night princess nuzzles her sister before walking back down the spiral stairs. All the while Celestia remained on the balcony. “Am I wrong Philomena?” The phoenix lifts her head up to look at Celestia. The princess turned her head to look over her shoulder “Am I wrong to wait? I want to go to his side. To be there with him but I have duties to tend to and a kingdom to run.” The female phoenix hops off her mistress’s back and land on the railing before her, staring into her amethyst eyes. “Am I wrong?” The phoenix looked into those eyes and shook her head. Even though she could not speak, she understood what Celestia said. The princess closed her eyes, squeezing out a tear to which was lightly removed by the phoenix wing. Even if she could not respond directly to her question, Celestia knew what she meant, she would wait for him. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Elsewhere just beyond Equestria’s boarders to the north. Two gryphons walk into a rather large throne room surrounded by guards and warriors alike. The two stand before another much larger gryphon. The gryphon in question sat upon the top of a short stair. He wore an ornate crown and was cover in gold jewelery. His golden eyes narrowed as he gazed down at the two prostrate before him. “Speak.” They both rose to their feet before one spoke. “My lord Greaves. We have just returned from our recon in Equestria. Everything looks favorable but....” “But what Gallen?” The other gryphon stepped forward and spoken up. “We that is to say I felt a powerful presence. I could not be certain but I believe it to be that of the princesses champion. An Alicorn stallion by the name of Lunar Star.” The room grew silent. The three winged beasts looked at each other before the king boomed. “What!” The two cringed as their king raised his voice. “Lunar Star sire.” One said meekly. “How can he have returned? He’s been dead for well over a millennia.” He stood and walked down to the two of them, pacing back and forth. “Do you two have any idea how this messes up my plans?” He the grips Gallen up by his throat “Could you be wrong?!” “No my lord. His magic patterns matches. There could be no other explanation.” Gallen was struggling for air as he was held up by his king before being dropped. “This is very vexing news.” Greaves returns to his throne. “If Lunar has indeed returned it will set my plans back considerably.” “So then what do we do my lord?” “We will have to bide our time. With their champion back, that is three beings of great power.” The king drummed his claws on the ground as he thought. “What of the artifact? What news can you give on that?” A soldier then stepped forward. “We have a team looking for one half of it now my lord. No news as of yet.” “Very well, dismissed." With a wave of his claw they left. > Memory > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Six ponies and one human made their way into the deeper part of the Everfree Forest. Rainbow Dash flies over the trees, relaying anything she may see to those on the ground. It took the group sometime before they arrive where the Hydra attacked Tom and Twilight the night prior. “Ok here is where I ran into Star before the Hydra attacked and he tossed it away. So we should start looking here and see if there is anything out of the ordinary.” Twilight trotted around, looking through bushes and shrubs in hopes of finding any kind of reason for Tom being there. “This is getting us nowhere. Twilight there is nothing here.” “I am afraid I must agree Twilight. If there was anything out here it is probably gone by now.” Rarity spoke as she walked up beside Rainbow Dash. “Well then why would she send us out here if there wasn’t anything to find?” “I think she may have felt my arrival and that was it Twi.” He walked over to the unicorn and patted her shoulder. A roar sounds through out the forest. Tom face-palms and groans. “Not this again. Really? It’s like something our of a bad cartoon show.... erm no offense.” Storming out of the trees the Hydra again appears. All four heads roar in unison. “You again? Didn’t you get the hint.” “You guys make a break for it, I’ll hold it off.” Rainbow flies towards the massive beast but was soon stopped. A magic aura holds fast to her tail. “Hey what’s the big I...dea?” She looked back to see Tom holding her with his magic, his eyes glowing white. “No Rainbow Dash. I can not allow you to place yourself at risk.” His voice as the girls could tell was not his own. He pulled his hand back and brought the pegasus to him. “Everypony, draw near I am going to generate a mass teleport.” “Wait what? I thought you didn’t know any spells, How are you going to do that if you don’t know what to focus on?” But Twilight’s words fell on deaf ears as now both his hands glowed, Bringing them up over his head. “Everypony quick, get close to Star.” All six formed a circle around the human. Tom then brought his hands down and spread them apart, forming a barrier around them all and in a flash of light, they were gone. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- By now it was no longer a surprise to Celestia or Luna that they felt Lunar’s power surges. They both knew he was alive but neither knew what form he had take. For all their knowledge he was just as they remembered him, as an Alicorn. “Your majesty!” “Hmm? oh, yes forgive me Lord Brighthoof you were talking about a recent outbreak of the Feather Flu in Manehatten.” Celestia’s mind was anywhere but where it should be at the moment. “Yes your highness. It has spread throughout the lower districts. Mostly among the middle class.” “I see. I will send some of the best doctors i can offer to stop the virus from spreading any further.” The stallion bowed his head to her statement. “Thank you you majesty.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- With another blinding flash, the seven of them appeared back in the library. Books and papers whip around the room in the massive amount of magic that was used. “My goodness is this what it feels like when you try this Twilight?” Rarity places a hoof to her head as she steadied herself. “No, I mean i don’t think I’ve ever used that amount of magic before.” “Well at least we’re out’a there in one piece.” “Speak for yourself Applejack. I would have clobbered that stupid Hydra if magic colt here didn’t stop me.” She pointed to Tom but as she turned to look at him, he just stood there in a daze. “Hey are you alright sugarcube?” He didn’t respond. Soon enough though his body fell but was quickly caught by Twilight’s magic. “Oh my, this seems to happen when he uses his magic by reflex. I’m not sure what the make of it. It seems like when anypony’s life is in danger he goes into some kind of altered state and preforms spells that he has no knowledge of.” “Do you think he’ll be ok Twilight. I would hate to see him get hurt just for saving us.” Fluttershy spoke in a soft tone. “No I don’t think it’s an injury but it is strange. Did anypony else notice his voice change when it happened?” Twilight looked to the others and each one nodded in agreement. “Strange, I wonder if the princess would know something about it.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dear Princess Celestia. I am writing to you to report that we have not found anything of significants within the Everfree Forest. However last evening as I was coming home from a friends house I ran into a very odd creature, a human to be exact. We were both attacked by a Hydra and to my amazement, he was able to use magic. I maybe a little off in saying this but from the myths I have read, nothing said anything about humans using magic. Also it seems when he uses his magic on pure instinct he looses consciousness and dose not wake till hours later only to not be able to recall what had happened prior. I am not sure what to make of this and hope you might know something as to the reason he is here. Your faithful student Twilight Sparkle Celestia reads over the letter she had just received from her student. Her eyes grew. “That must be the reason for the power surges we had been feeling.” Celestia flew out of her room and through the castle, galloping at great speed. Something was giving speed to her stride. She quickly rounded the corner after a long hall and charged up the stairs. After she had reached the top she knocked quickly against the large doors. “Your highness the princess slumbers.” One of the night guards stepped from the side. She shot the dragon winged pegasus a stern glare to which he returned to his post. Again she knocked on the door. Slowly it opened and a very tired Luna steps out. She yawns deeply and her eyes hung droopily. “Sister it is not time for us to be awoken yet. Why has thou roused us from our slumber?” She quickly pushed Luna into her room and closed the door behind her. “Tia we demand to know what cause thou has for thy actions?” The sun princess then showed her sister the letter she had just received from her student. Upon reading it the moon princess’s jaw dropped. “Can this be? The power signatures we felt from the Everfree Forest and Ponyville, they came from this human?” Celestia said nothing just stood there in mute surrender. “Sister...?” Luna walked over to her elder sister and again noticed the faint glistening of tears in her eyes. “After well over a thousand years Luna. He’s come back to us.” Luna nuzzled her sister’s side. “Sister is thou sure that this human is the incarnation of our dearest friend?” “There can be no doubt Luna, it all fits. Twilight stated that she met him last evening which was when we felt the first signs that he might be here. When it ended, that must have been when he collapsed.” “Sister I know what thou said about waiting for him to come before us. but in light of this evidence my we say that it would be foalish to tarry longer.” Celestia could not help but agree with her sister. They would both go. For they had to be there and see him with there own eyes. “I shall write Twilight and tell her of our arrival. Make sure everything is prepared for our departure.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom woke from his sleep only to see that he was not in his room nor Twilight’s. He was on a battle field surrounded by dead ponies and what looked like panthers. A pegasus dressed in golden armor rushed to his side. “My Lord are you injured?” “What? N-no I’m fine commander, what of our forces?” As he spoke he realized it was not his own voice but that of someone else. It was as if he were dreaming but if this were a dream, why is it he’s dreaming of ponies? “We have advanced on all fronts. It would seem as though the panther’s are retreating back to their fortress. Might I make a suggestion sir?” “Speak.” “If we took a small strike team, we might be able to infiltrate their stronghold and open the gates from the inside, allowing our forces to swam in and end this war.” Tom thought for a moment than nodded his head. “Make it so but be discreet about it. We do not wish to lose anymore of our brothers or sisters.” With a dip of his head the pegasus flew off into the smoke filled skies of the late afternoon sun. “Lunar!” Tom turned his head skyward and saw two pegasi coming towards him but they weren’t pegasi, they were the Princesses Celestia and Luna. Both were clad in armor from their heads to their hind legs. As they landed, Celestia trotted up to him and nuzzled under his chin. “After that blast we assumed the worst. Luna and I are both relieved to see you are not hurt.” Tom felt himself chuckle. “No simple magic blast could stop me. Now come on we have a war to win.” Tom felt wings beat on either side of him, slowly lifting him up into the air. Celestia and Luna soon followed. As he rose higher, everything seemed to slow down, almost as if it were recorded by a slow motion camera. He turned around only to see a spear coming for Celestia. In an instant he pushed her out of the way and the spear struck him with such force that it threw him to the ground. He bounced with the force of the impact and then slid along the ground. He could hear muffled cries of his name yet all he saw what the battered sky. Then he saw both Celestia and Luna looking down to him. They were yelling for soldiers. “Sir Lunar is down. Squadron B protect him and the princesses at all cost.” Several pegasi and unicorn soldiers surrounded him and both Luna and Celestia. The last things he could hear were the cries of the distraught mares before him and Celestia’s words, pleading for him to hold on. Then everything went black. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom slowly woke from his sleep to the sound of beeping. “Great, I’m in a hospital” “Ponyville General to be exact.” “How did I get here?” As his vision slowly came into focus he could see Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, Twilight, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie around his bed. But there were two other who stood behind them, Princess Celestia and Luna. “Well after you lost consciousness, your friends brought you here.” A brown stallion in a doctor’s coat stepped forward. “How long was I out?” “About two days.” The doctor replied. “Two days?!” Tom quickly rose but then suddenly fell back holding his head. “Come now darling the doctor said you should not move too fast or you will pass out again.” Rarity hopped up onto her hind legs and slowly eased him back into his spot on the bed. “How long should he stay here doctor?” Twilight turned to speak to him. “Well I suppose he can be released later today but he has to remain in bed and get plenty of fluids till then.” He then left, leaving the human with eight mares. Tom looked between each of them and then stopped his eyes on Celestia. “I’m sorry to ask this but would it be possible if I might speak to Princess Celestia in private.” The six friends look to each other then nodded before walking out of the room. Luna looked to her sister. “I’ll be fine Luna, don’t worry.” Luna then nodded and joined the others. “Twilight has told me how you know of our world. I must say that is a rather odd story.” “It’s all true your highness.” “Still I am unable to understand your purpose here. You say you have no idea other then what was said to you?” Tom nodded. “Stranger still is that you can use magic.” She walked over and stood beside him and even though she was a pony, he felt himself attracted to her. Everything she stood for, her grace and poise. Her sear kindness and dignity, he loved it all. He then recalled his dream and wondered if it was even a dream. To try his luck he asked her a simple question. “You loved him, didn’t you?” “Whom are you reffering to?” She looked to him with a quizzical stare. “Lunar...” The princess nearly toppled over as her eyes grew wide. “How...how did you know that name?” “While I was out. I had a dream but it wasn’t like any I had before. This felt real, like it was... a memory.” He looked to the sun princess and saw that her eyes where glistening in the light of the room. “You loved him. He gave his life to protect you from that spear and shielded you. But no matter how much you cared for him... he was taken from you. I watched as you wept over him. I saw it like... like I was him. He was your champion, your friend, your lover.” Tears streamed down her face. Her head hung and her eyes were closed. It was then she felt a gentle hand against her cheek and she gasped opening her eyes and staring at him. Tom smiled softly to her and she quickly nuzzled into his palm. “Please don’t cry princess.” He removed his hand from her cheek and moved slowly, sliding along the bed. “Please you musn’t move or you will collapse again.” “I will be fine.” He sat on the side of the bed then slowly put his feet to the floor and pushed off the bed standing before her. His irises were not their normal brown anymore but instead were a shade of purple. He then brought his hands to her head and held it within his palms. “Please don’t cry princess. I may not remember much but I do know one thing. The feelings i am getting are real.” He chuckled softly. “Its silly I know. We have only just met and yet here I am talking to you as though I have known you all my life.” Celestia could say nothing, her heart was beating so hard she feared it might burst from her chest. “But... maybe I do.” He shook his head. “I love you.” Tom leaned in close to the Alicorn princess, so close that their lips grazed acrossed each other before they locked. Celestia was a bit is shock but soon melted into the kiss and close her eyes, enjoying the moment. > Finding One's Place > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Lunar where are you?” A small white alicorn filly calls out as she walked through the halls of a large castle. “Come on Lunar this isn’t funny. Mother and Father asked that I keep an eye on you and Luna.” The little filly made her way deeper into the castle till she heard what she thought was giggling. Turning her head around a corner she looks down a long corridor but there was nothing there. Still she heard light giggling. Thinking it might be her sister she started to walk down the corridor. “I know that’s you Luna, come on out.” No sooner did she get half way down then all the curtains covered the light through the windows, making the corridor the little filly stood in as dark as night. She looked around, a bit nervously. “This isn’t funny Luna.” In the darkness the little filly could not see anything and soon a ghostly moaning echos in the darkness. The filly turned frantically looking from side to side. “I know thats you too Lunar, you won’t scare me.” Again another ghostly moan sounds before a figure of a headless pony fades into her view and runs towards her. The little filly screams and runs for her life as the ghost chases her down the corridor and around the corner. Once she was out of sight, the ghost disappears, the curtains roll up to allow light to enter and loud laughing echos. There at the end of the hall, laughing and rolling on the floor were a filly and colt, Lunar and Luna. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom slowly opened his eyes as he awoken in Ponyville. It had been only a day since Tom started to piece together what he felt was happening to him. He yawned and sat up, stretching his arms and legs. It was early morning and both Twilight and Spike had not yet awoken. He slowly climbed from his bed and the loft in which they slept. He made his way downstairs and into the kitchen. “Hmm lets see what there is to make.” He walked through the kitchen and began to raid the fridge. Taking out a carton of eggs, an onion and a head of lettuce, he places them upon the counter and rummaged through one of the cabinets and pulls out a frying pan. “Oh hell I almost forgot the milk.” He returns to the fridge and opened it, taking out a tall bottle of milk. He placed it by the other ingredients and grabbed a butter knife from the drawer. He cuts a swatch of butter and plops it into the pan. Placing the pan on the stove he starts it and waits for the butter to melt. “Hey what are you doing?” The tired voice reached Tom’s ears and he turns seeing a yawning dragon. “Oh hey Spike. I just figured I would make scrambled egg sandwiches for breakfast for everypony. “Can I help?” “Course you can help. You do know how to make scrambled eggs don’t you?” “Do I know how to make scrambled eggs he says.” Spike pulled up a chair to the counter and looked at the eggs in the carton the to the Human who was making sure the melted butter was evenly spread on the pan. “Uh incase I forgot, how do you make scrambled eggs?” Tom chuckled softly and went about showing the little dragon the best way to crack the eggs. He then shows Spike how to chop the onion, telling him to be careful or it will make him cry. “Now then don’t add too much milk but not too little. You want just enough to make them light and fluffy. Next you add the chopped onion and place it into the pan. You stir it every so often so it dose not burn. Once it starts to become solid, you are nearly done.” A little time later, Spike and Tom had set up the table, placing three plates and glasses, filling each one with orange juice then the two heard the clopping of hooves coming down the stairs. “Spike, why didn’t you wake...me. What is all this? “Oh good morning Twilight. I just figured I would thank you for taking me in while I’m here. I know it’s not much but I though I might make breakfast.” “I helped.” Spike boasted. The unicorn smiled and walked over to the table taking her place at one of the plates as Tom place a toasted scrambled egg sandwich with a leaf of lettuce. “Enjoy.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Luna yawned as she made her way to her bed room for much needed sleep. She had spent all night at court and was exhausted. She was just about to step inside her bedroom when her sister called to her. The princess of the night groaned softly before turning and looking up to Celestia. “Yes dear sister, what can we help thee with?” “Yes I wish to speak with you about matters in private.” Luna nodded and opened the door to her room, allowing her sister entry before walking in herself and closing the door. “So sister what is it that thou wishes to speak we about?” She yawned again and placed her hoof to her mouth as she made her way over to her bed. “I have requested that Twilight help with Tom’s that is, Lunar’s training. I do not know as to how he was brought here since you and I are the only ones able of such feet. Nor I do know that whomever did so, but I am grateful as I am sure you are.” Celestia walked over and sat beside Luna’s bed. “Indeed, though we were still quite young when he was taken from us we still remember our time together.” Celestia looked down and lightly scrapped her hoof along the stone floor. A slight blush courses through her cheeks. “He.. he kissed me Luna.” Luna looked at her sister in shock. “He kissed you? Why had thou not told us?” “Well..." Tom had pulled back from the kiss and looked into the princess’s eyes. “I... I am sorry princess. I should not have done that.” He then sat back on the hospital bed and breathed softly. “Please forgive me.” “Tom..” She placed her hoof under his chin and lifts his head to look at her. Looking into those eyes somehow seemed to give the human peace, as if she were emitting a soothing aura. But of course why wouldn’t she. In all reality she was a goddess. “There is nothing to forgive because you have done nothing wrong. I would be lying if I said I did not enjoy it. I know that even though your form may have changed you are still my Lunar and that will never change. Though I have not been totally honest with you and I should.” “What do you mean your majesty?” “Please, from now on just call me Celestia.” She took a deep breath before continuing. “My sister and I felt your magic. That is to say every time you use it, we can sense it. We were not sure if it was you whom had done it. But when Twilight had sent me her report when you returned from the forest that’s when we knew. You were still in the library when we arrived and Twilight had told us that you had not yet awakened. She along with all of us were worried.” “Worried? About me?” Celestia nodded her head. “Yes. So we took you to Ponyville Hospital and stayed beside you those two days. Truth be told when we return to Canterlot I know both Luna and I will hear about it from our advisors. But it is of little concern.” “What do you mean?” He was not sure just what she was getting at. “Your memory as it seems is slowly returning to you. Luna and I both firmly believe that you are the incarnation of our champion Lunar Star.” “I know. When I was on Earth I always felt different, like I didn’t belong there. I had very few friends and none of my relationships really lasted. I was dealing with stress on a daily basis, shedding tears at night because I knew that there had to be someone out there calling to me and there was nothing I could do about it. Then that mysterious unicorn appeared and brought me here and I met all of you.” He looked to his hands to which Celestia placed her hoof upon them, making him look to her once more. “When I saw you, it was different from when I had seen you on the show. I could feel that pull becoming stronger. It was then that I knew, you were the one calling to me and... that I was home.” He chuckled softly. “It’s funny. I am a human and you all are ponies but I feel more at home around all of you then I ever did with my own kind.” “He asked that I keep our conversation between us but he knew I would eventually tell you of this.” “And he cares not that thou did?” Celestia shook her head. “I wish to see him again Luna. After everything is taken care of here, I will depart to Ponyville. I will return later this evening.” Luna nuzzled into her sister. “Thou must follow thy own heart sister. Do not fear if thou ar’t late we shall be awake before thee return.” It was then that the lunar princess had an idea. “Sister when is the Gala?” “Next week, why?” “Might we suggest thou invite him to join us then? We are certain thou has invited thy student and her friends.” Celestia thought for a moment and realized that she had forgotten about inviting him. “I shall do just that Luna, thank you.” Celestia smiled to her younger sister and stood back up. “Sleep well Luna we shall talk more upon my return.” Luna nodded and smiled before yawning once more and laying her head upon her pillow. Celestia walked to the door of her sister’s room and looked back to her. “Sweet dreams Luna.” She then left, closing the door behind her. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Far to the north, two gryphons stood back upon a crumbling tower and looked out over the land of Equestria. One lay prone, the other sitting on his hind legs. “I don’t know about this Grain.” “What’s not to know? The king ordered us to continue to observe Lunar. If he becomes a threat, we eliminate him, how much easier could it get?” “That’s not what I mean. Greaves has lost it, look what he’s planning. A war on Equestria, a war against one of the few allies we have. Not to mention one of the strongest Kingdoms.” Grain looked over to his friend. “What the hay has you spooked all of a sudden? Normally you would jump at the chance for a fight.” “I know, I know but this, this is insane. Forgetting the fact that both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna have near unlimited powers. Now he wants us to kill their champion. Think about it, if it were not for him the Panther Clans would have slaughtered all of us. It’s all written in the books of our history. We owe that pony our lives.” “I know Gallen but orders are orders. If we don’t obey our king you know what will happen. We could very well have our wings removed or worse. Let’s just do what we are told and when we see the time to act we will tell him alright.” “Thanks Grain. I could not live with myself knowing that we were ordered to kill practically our savior.” A claw pats him on the back. “Gallen I have known you since we were fledglings and in all that time I have never once betrayed your trust. Just relax, we will think of a way to warn them when the time comes for now lets just play along." ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “So this Gala?” “The Grand Galloping Gala? Yes what about it darling?” “What’s it like? I heard Twilight talking about it before I left. She said that it’s held once a year?” Tom had figured since he was going to be here a long time, he had to get out and get to know that town. Twilight had offered to show him around but he was insistent on doing so himself. Besides, she seemed preoccupied with learning all she could about Lunar Star. He was not sure how she found out about him but figured it was no big deal, if anything he would ask her later about it. He met up with Rarity shortly after and the two struck up a conversation that continued all the way to her home. “Well darling, the Gala is a very regal party. All the upper class ponies from all over Equestria come to congregate and discuss dealing and the like. Though one has to receive an invitation from Princess Celestia before they can attend. Twilight, myself and our friends attended last year and... well things did not turn out as well as we had hoped.” “How do you mean?” Rarity was busy putting together another one of her designer dresses for who tom could only guess by the way it looked, had to be rich if she was placing gemstone all over it. “Oh dear, Star do you think you can get that box of jewels from the top shelf there. I am afraid if I move I will lose this stitching.” “Er sure.” Tom looked around for the box she was taking about then seen the box she mention on the top of the shelf where her sewing machine was. Using his magic he removed the box and placed it beside Rarity. “Thank you so much dear. Now then what were we discussing?” “The Gala?” “Ah yes. Well the six of us had never attended the Gala before then so we had what you call visions of grandeur so to speak. Truth be told I suppose we should not have been disappointed but things happen. Actually this years Gala is next week. Twilight and the rest of us had already received our invitations.” Tom leaned against a wall and watched the fashion pony as she worked, pulling gems from the box he had given her and placing the jewels at just the right spots. “Well I’m still kind of new here so I shouldn’t be expecting one. Besides I don’t think I would fit in with those type of ponies anyhow. I would stick out like a sore thumb or in your case, hoof.” “I’m curious though, what did you and the princess discuss that was so secret that you could not tell us?” Tom shook his head. “I’m sorry Rarity but those are matters between she and I. It would be wrong of me to tell anypony else what was spoken behind closed doors.” “Well I suppose I can’t blame you for wanting to keep some things private. One other thing that has been bothering me darling. Is that your cutie mark on your back there?” Tom stopped and thought about what she said. “My cutie mark? Oh you mean my tattoo. No I didn’t earn it, well I guess in a way I did but not like you ponies do. It was drawn into my skin and represents a part of my ancestry.” “Drawn into your skin? Gracious, didn’t it hurt?” “Very, but when the artist was done I didn’t feel anything. A slight burn maybe but nothing like when they were putting it there.” “Well then you must have been very brave to have undergone such an ordeal.” Tom was just about to speak before he was interrupted by a surprised gasp. “Oh my gosh it’s you.” A small white unicorn filly rushed up to him from the stairwell and started to bounce around him. “I didn’t believe it when my sister said she met a human but now that I see you I can’t believe you’re real.” “Forgive my sister’s rudeness. She was raised better then that.” “It’s alright." Tom chuckled and knelt down to the little filly. “Well hello there Sweetie Belle. My names Tom but you can call me Star. You know, you’re a lot cuter in person.” His comment making the unicorn filly blush. “Sweetie Belle why don’t you go and play with your friends, Star and I were busy having a conversation of our own.” “No, that’s ok Rarity. I been meaning to look around town anyway. I might as well get to know the place since I seem as though I’m going to be here a good while.” He then looked to the little filly. “Care to be my tour guide miss Sweetie Belle?” “Oh absolutely, I’ll show you all the fun places in Ponyville.” The tiny unicorn continued Talking even thought Tom was not following her. “Don’t worry, I’ll watch out for her.” Rarity smiled before returning to her work. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dear Twilight Sparkle I am glad that you and your friends are all attending this years Gala in spite of last year. As I said before, the Gala is always awful so it make me happy to know that you six will be here. Luna has also informed me that we maybe one guest short so I am writing to rectify that now. Please give this invitation to Star when next you see him with my warmest regards. Your mentor Princess Celestia of Equestria “Wow, hey Spike?” The little dragon cam down the stairs with books in his claws and placed the on the table. “What is it Twilight?” “Can you place this invitation on Star’s bed. I want it to be there when he gets back.” Using her magic he brings the ticket over to the purple dragon and placed it in his claws. He then runs back upstairs as Twilight looks through her books, trying to find out all she can about the stallion Lunar Star. She soon came upon bits an pieces of his life but they were only scattered fragments and soon enough she became frustrated with her search. “Argh why can’t I find out anything relevant. Who was he? Who were his folks? Where did he live?” It was the one part of history she never learned, like it was some kind of big secret. Ever since she heard Tom talking in his sleep one night and the mention of Lunar’s name she had begun to wonder who he was. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Elsewhere, Sweetie Bell had been guiding her human friend all over Ponyville, from the joke shop to the spa, from town hall to Sugarcube Corner. “So what else do you normally do around here?” “Well Applebloom, Scootaloo and I go to our clubhouse in Sweet Apple Acres. Come on I’ll show you.” So he followed close behind the little unicorn filly as they left Ponyville and walked down a dirt road. It did not take the two of them long before they reached the Apple family farm and were greeted by Applejack. “Howdy there Sweetie Belle. If’n yer looking for Applebloom, she at the clubhouse I reckon.” “Thanks Applejack.” Sweetie Belle walked past her and Tom followed. “Well hey I didn’t know you were part oh their little group.” “Actually I’m not, Sweetie Belle is just showing me around. I figure if I’m going to be here for a good while, might as well get a good idea of what there is around here.” Tom could hear Sweetie Belle calling for him to keep up. “Anyway it was nice talking to you Applejack, hope to see you around sometime.” The two walked through the orchard for a good bit before they reach a small tree house somewhere on the farm. “Well I’ll be you girls certainly have a nice place here.” “Well Applebloom did most of the work. She’s really good when it comes to that type of thing.” The two walk up to the small door as Sweetie Belle knocked. A moment later a small red maned filly opens the door. She was a light yellow and wore a rather large pink bow. “Well hey there Sweetie Belle, who’s yer friend?” “Oh this is Star. He asked if I could show him around Ponyville.” “Ok well then come on in, Scootaloo should be here soon anyhow.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Thank you everypony, that will be all for today.” Celestia said from her seat above those who where in her throne room. As they filed out one of the servants stopped and waited till everypony else was gone. “Your highness I hope I’m not being to bold in saying this but... you seem different.” “Different? How do you mean Dusty?” Celestia raised a brow. “Like a weight has been lifted from you your highness. All the castle can see it, even the guards.” Dusty was the princess’s handmare. She was one of the few ponies aside from her sister that she trusted. “If I tell you Dusty you must promise that it stays only between us.” “Of course your majesty, I would never dream of doing anything to bring shame to you.” The princess then steps down from her solar throne and walked towards the earth pony. “There has been a burden removed from me Dusty. A great burden that I have carried with me for over a thousand years of my life. Tell me, what tales have been told to you about the Great Panther war?” “Not much your highness. Just that the panthers were everywhere before Equestria decided to join in the fight.” “Indeed this is true. During the war my sister Luna and I were joined by another when we took the battle to the panther’s stronghold. A stallion named Lunar Star.” The earth pony placed a hoof to her mouth. “The savior?” “Yes. He and I were very close. You might say that if he were not killed that day so long ago, he would be my husband.” The small earth pony could not believe her ears. The princess had a special somepony she considered marrying. The news of this was almost too much and she fell on her haunches. “Forgive me your highness, I never knew.” “As you should not have. Nopony alive aside from Luna knew of it. He took the spear that was meant for me and died that day. I was never able to forgive myself because of it. But now, something that I can not even explain has happened.” “What is that my lady?” “Lunar has returned to us. I can not say how and to be honest I wish I knew. But he is with us once more and I could not be more happier.” Dusty had served her princess for several years now, even during the Nightmare Moon incident. She had always the princess to be a bit withholding with feelings. But for the past few days she had seen a change within her and she thought of it as a good thing. She was more open. “If the savior has returned your highness might we suggest that you go to him.” Celestia smiled. “I shall Dusty, I will not be back till this evening. Make sure everything is taken care of while I am away.” With that the princess left as Dusty bowed her head. > A Picnic In The Sun > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom was just leaving Sweet Apple Acres, followed closely by Sweetie Belle. He had made a promise to Rarity that he would look out for the little unicorn while they were out and about. The two waved good bye and continued down the road back to Ponyville. “Wow I didn’t even know you could do something like that.” Tom chuckled softly. “To be honest, before I came to Equestria, I couldn’t. Where I am from magic dose not exist.” “How can you not have magic?” Tom shrugged. “We made due. We had things called machines that took place of magic. It made our lives easier. Well, some of us.” “What do you mean?” “Wars, Sweetie Belle. Throughout my time on Earth there was never not death or destruction. Humans, well most humans are savage and barbaric. They would rather kill each other then work things out.” As soon as he spoke he covered his mouth and turned quickly to the little unicorn. “Goddesses I’m sorry Sweetie Belle I don’t think I should have told you.” Sweetie Belle tilted her head to the side with a quizzical look. “Why are you sorry? I know everypony dies.” “Yes...” He kneeled down and smiled to her. “You are right. I just... I see this place and I see a paradise. No wars, nopony killing the other for no reason. There is peace here and even though I grew up in a world where there was nothing but stress and turmoil, I longed for a place like this. I feel like, like I belong here.” “Well then allow me to be the first to welcome you home.” Tom smiled and ruffed her mane a little to which the filly giggled. “Come on, we should be getting back to Rarity’s.” It took the two friends a little while before they reached Rarity's home. Pushing open the door, Tom allowed Sweetie Belle to enter before following suit. “Oh you're back, Did you have a good time?" “The best. Applebloom and Scootaloo were totally blow away when they seen Star use his magic And I thought only unicorns could use it." “Well Star is a very unique person. Sweetie Belle." “Well anyway I should be heading back to Twilight's. She asked for my help later on.” He leaned down and patted Sweetie Belle’s head and gave Rarity a hug before leaving. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Celestia was lazily flying from Canterlot to Ponyville. She had several hours before she had to return, if she had to at all. Thoughts ran through the Princess’s head as to what she would like to do once she arrived. She was planning on a picnic and since there were no scheduled downpour it seemed like the best idea. Lunar’s form might be different but he was still Lunar and that was all she was concerned with. She had also not told Twilight of her arrival. She wanted it to be a surprise for both of them. Before she had left however she made sure to pack a few things for their picnic such as a blanket and some goodies that the two of them might snack on. She didn’t want Twilight to feel left out so just encase she made sure to get enough for the three of them. As she neared Ponyville, she had caught sight of Tom walking through the streets, talking to a few ponies along the way. “He’s fitting back in nicely, like he had never left.” She smiled to herself as she watched him making his way back to Twilight’s library. She drifted above till he disappeared inside. “Well it’s now or never.” The princess of the sun slowly circles till he lands just a few yards fro the library entrance. Many ponies who had seen the regal princess drop to the ground in respect as she passed by. She smiles to herself, feeling almost as giddy as a school filly but she hides it well enough so that any pony around would not notice it. She makes her way up to the library door and knocks. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “So how do you find Ponyville Star?” Tom had walked through the door a few moments ago and went right into helping Twilight organizing the library. She would do this every so often when things would get out of hoof. “I appreciate this help Star. It’s good to have another magic pony helping me since it gets done much faster.” Twilight then quickly placed her hoof to her mouth as she realized what she said. “I’m sorry Star, I didn’t mean to call you a pony.” Tom just laughed at her. “It’s alright Twilight. To be honest I feel at home among you ponies then I ever did with my own kind. Plus the fact I can use magic must mean something.” “Maybe you’re a unicorn?” “Or an Alicorn.” Twilight quickly turned and stared at him. He said that so fast right after she did that she snickered. “Who knows, you might even be Lunar Star.” “Maybe but I think the odds of that are slim don’t you? I mean a human mysteriously brought to another land where he used to be this all powerful being just to save it from destruction. It sounds like a bad novel if you ask me.” The two stop when there came a knock at the door. “I’ll get it Star.” Twilight walked down the stairs and to the door as Tom had finished putting the last few books back up on the shelf. When she opened the door, she gasped. “Princess Celestia. please come in.” The unicorn stepped aside to allow her entry then closed the door behind her. “I’ll go make some tea.” “That’s quiet alright Twilight, I was wondering if your friend was around?” “Star? Yeah he’s just upstairs. Wait right here and I’ll get him for you. Star!” The lavender unicorn took off up the stairs as Celestia waited for him. The sound of talking and the clopping of hooves sounded above her head before footsteps headed to the stairs. Tom sure enough came down the stairs, followed by Twilight and smiled to the princess the moment he saw her. “Well this is a surprise Celestia. I thought you might still be at court or dealing with some other matters of state.” “I thought I would get done early and come to see if you would like to have a picnic with me.” Tom walked to the sun princess in which the two gave each other a gentle hug. “It would be an honor.” Twilight for one did not miss something like that. “Hold on, Star. You just hugged the princess as though you had known her.” “I do, I met her the other day remember.” “No I mean like you really know her. I don’t think I have ever seen any pony aside from those closest to the princess do that, and I’m one of them.” Tom’s cheeks grew red as he blushed and looked to the Celestia. “You think we should tell her? I mean she is your student and an Element of Harmony.” “Tell me what?” Twilight asked. “I don’t see any reason why we can’t tell her.” Celestia looked back to Tom Tom nodded and walked over to the little unicorn before getting face to face with her. “The truth is Twilight. Ever since I was brought here, I have been having very real dreams. Dreams that I know for a fact I should have no knowledge of. In truth, they are memories of a life I once had.” “What he means is Twilight. Star is in fact a reincarnation of Lunar.” Twilight was dumbstruck for a moment as her jaw hung open. She looked between her mentor and her friend. “I knew it! I knew there was some connection as to why you could use magic. You also said the name Lunar Star in your sleep last night. So when you feel that a pony is in danger you go into this altered state which is really Lunar taking control of your body for a moment then giving it back when you are out of danger.” She giggled “Oh why didn’t I see this before. I mean I had a feeling that you might have been important but not that impor---” Tom had abruptly placed his hand to her muzzle to stop her. “Twilight please I know you’re excited that your house guest was once a great pony but I am still just who you see me as, nothing more, nothing less.” “It is important that Star’s secret remain as such. We both understand you may tell your friends and that’s fine but it can not go beyond that. There are still many things that we do not know, like why he was brought to us. Not to mention he dose not wield all the power he once did.” Twilight again looked between her mentor and her new friend and nodded. “I understand.” “Thank you Twilight.” Tom then stood back up before looking over to Celestia. “Should we go?” Celestia nodded and headed for the door. “Oh and Twilight I finished upstairs so that should be the end of it ok. I’ll be back later, don’t wait up for me.” He waved to the unicorn as he closed the library door behind himself. Twilight was still in a slight daze thanks to this revelation. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Both Tom and Celestia were met with odd looks but few if at all questioned it as they bowed to their ruler. “It seems we are the center of attention.” Celestia giggled softly. “I know a better way.” Without warning, the princess of Equestria leaned over and gave Tom a kiss on the cheek. This elected gasps from ponies that saw them and made Tom blush. “So now that we are the talk of the town, where did you have in mind for this picnic you mentioned?” “Well there is a lovely spot by the lake if you would prefer or we could enjoy the splendor of the park?” Tom faced-palmed. “I believe we have drawn too much attention to ourselves as it is. I do not think we need a scandal.” Celestia giggled once more. How easily he was embarrassed. She didn’t care one way or another, if anything were to surface she would make sure that it didn’t get far. One of the perks of being a ruler. The two walked through Ponyville, hearing hushed talking around them. They make their way just outside of Ponyville to a large lake. Selecting a spot under a nearby willow tree, Star used his magic to lift the saddle bag from the princess’s back. “Oh thank you.” “My pleasure.” Again using his magic, he removed a blanket that Celestia had brought and spread it out on the ground before them. Celestia then took her spot on the blanket and Tom sat beside her. “Have you... remembered anything lately?” “Actually yes. Do you recall when you were a filly, the eastern corridor of the old castle.” Celestia’s eyes widen and she looked at him. “I knew it! I had a feeling that was you and Luna.” Tom chuckled inwardly and nodded his head. “We could not stop laughing for a good few minutes. You were so scared we were afraid you were going to wet yourself.” Celestia blushed at his comment which made him stop talking instantly. “You did, didn’t you?” The princess very slowly nodded. This made him laugh even harder, so much so that he fell onto his back. “Oh Goddess I can’t breath.” “Well that was one moment I wished not to recall.” She continued to blush softly and looked down. “I am sorry princess, at the time we didn’t know any better. I mean we were still children after all.” Celestia nodded and the two of them looked out over the landscape, taking in the scenery. “I... am sorry that I don’t remember much just yet. It’s weird, not little over a week ago I was on Earth just working to make a living, stress everyday, tears nearly every night. Then I was brought here and everything I didn’t have on Earth I have here.” Celestia turned to look at Tom. “What do you mean?” “I was scrapping out a living. My relationships... well I already told you all this didn’t I? Anyway here I have friends, those who care for me.” He chuckled. “Not to mention I have the affections of one of the most beautiful creatures I have ever seen.” The princess felt her cheeks heat up and her heart beat in her chest. “I may not remember who I was right away. To be honest if I never do remember, that’s ok because... because I can make all new memories. Here, now, with you.” “You always knew how to make me blush didn’t you.” “What can I say, I have a poet’s heart.” Tom looked back to the saddle bag Celestia had brought with her and smile. “Well now lets see what kind of goodies you brought with you.” Tom used his magic and opened the bag, he then started to remove some of the things the princess had packed. “Hmm daffodil sandwiches, a bowl of tossed salad, pack of...oatmeal cookies?” Celestia nodded. “Three slices of cake, you always were partial to the stuff. I am guessing that you had accounted on Twilight joining us.” Again the princess nodded. “And what’s this? A bottle of champagne?” He smiled and removed the two glasses from the bag and popped the cork on the bottle, making sure not to spill any as he poured both a glass of it. Celestia took hers respectfully. “A toast. To good friends, better days and... a love rekindled.” The two lightly clinked their glasses together and took a sip. “Lunar.. I’m sorry, Star...” Tom had placed a finger to her lips when she turned to look at him. He then shook his head. “Celestia, no. You don’t have to call me by that name if you do not wish it. Lunar will be just fine.” The princess nodded. “Do you remember anything else? I mean anything intimately?” Tom knew what she was trying to get and he nodded his head. “I remember the night we spent in the hot tub. We were looking up at Luna’s beautiful night sky. She always had an artistic flare between the three of us.” He then looked over to the princess and gasped as he seen tears streaming from her eyes. For a moment all he could do was stare in disbelief but then when the shock of it was over he pulled the white mare into him and she lightly sobbed into his chest. “Shh... shh.. It’s alright.” “I had spent over a thousand years blaming myself for your death. Knowing that I could have done something, should have done something to save you. After I had to banish Luna, it felt all the more painful because I was alone. I did my best to hide it from my subjects but some of the servant at the time caught on. They would try to tell me that holding everything was not good for a pony, that I should let it out. But I couldn’t, I had to be strong for those who looked up to me to lead them.” “Shh... You must not blame yourself sweet Celestia. It happened so long ago and I was only doing my duty. I had sworn to protect you and Luna and that is what I did.” She lifts her head and stared into him, tears still streaming down her face. “But I should have done something to save you.” Tom shook his head. “Even if you did, there was little you could have done. The spear pierced my chest wall. Unless you had x-ray vision there was no way you could have know the extent of the damage.” He then took the princess’s head into his hands and lightly wiped away her tears with his thumbs. “Please Tia, cast aside such things. It is not good to dwell on the past and what could have been. I am here now, before you. My form may have changed but my heart has not. My mind, well that will catch up in time. Until then let us make new memories. As for my magic, I am sure that that to will return in time. Who knows, perhaps even my immortality will return also.” Celestia was the first to make a move and she quickly placed her lips against his own. Tom was a bit shocked by her forwardness as the movement of her body forced him onto his back. Celestia had deepened the kiss, parting his lips with her tongue and slowly slipping it within his own mouth. Their tongue fighting for control of the other as he held her close to him. Their kiss seemed to last a lifetime yet it only lasted a few minutes before it was broken and they stared into each others eyes. Tom had placed a hand to her cheek and smiled, Celestia nuzzled into it before resting her head on his chest. “Please don’t leave again Lunar, I don’t think my heart could take it if I lost you again.” “I promise you princess I will always be by your side.” > A Night And Day To Remember > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The two of them laid there, basking in the warmth of the late afternoon sun. Tom had placed the items back within Celestia’s pack and she lay with her head on his chest. He looked down to her and how peaceful she looked as she slept. He lightly placed a hand to her neck which made her stir and look to him. “Hi.” He said softly. Celestia just smiled and responded with a soft hi in return. “So just what else where you planning for this ‘date’ of ours?” The sun princess looked deep into his eyes and kissed him once more. “I have a very good idea. But first we need to get up. I have to lower the sun and allow Luna to do her duty. Then I was thinking we could return to Canterlot.” “Oh, and just what would we be doing there?” Celestia giggled and rolled Tom off the blanket. He chuckled deeply and rose to his feet as she pack the blanket with everything else. With her magic, Celestia slowly lowered the sun into the horizon and waited till she saw Luna’s moon crest on the other side. Once she was sure that her sister was ready, she lowered the sun till it dipped behind the mountains and disappeared. The moon then began to its movement through the sky. “Well then shall we go?” “Twilight may worry if I do not return.” “Oh Twilight know’s you are with me and besides, she trusts you. I can see it.” Tom nodded his head. “Well alright but you might have to teleport us, it has been a very long time since I had set foot in Canterlot.” Celestia smiled and raised her head, her horn began to glow in its normal golden hue before the two of them disappeared. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Luna had yawned when she was woken by the nudging of one of her handmares. “I am sorry to wake you princess. I know it is normally your sister that dose so but she has not yet returned and some of the staff are begining to worry.” Luna looked lazily at the young unicorn and yawned once more. “Fear not Olive Spice. We know where thy sister is and believe us when we say that she is safe where she is.” The unicorn nodded her head and stepped back to allow the moon princess to climb from her bed. As she did, she stretched out her legs and wigs first, then arched her back up and down. With a content sigh she walks from her room and through the corridors of the castle. Through the windows she was able to see the sun slowly setting. “Well at least she has not forgotten her duties.” Luna knew where her sister was and it made her happy to know that Celestia was once again back to her old self. As she rounded the corner she had bumped into a few of her sister’s guards. “Oh forgive us your majesty. We were just going to check on princess Celestia. We had not seen her throughout most of the day wand wondered if she was alright.” “Fear not our subjects, thy sister is indeed well though she is indisposed at the present time.” Both guards look to each other then bow their heads before Luna passed them on her way to the eastern tower. She was stopped a few more times by ponies who claimed they had not seen her elder sister all day. Luna assured each of them that she was safe and that seemed to be enough for them. Upon getting to the top of the tower, she walked out to the balcony and looked out over the land. Using her magic she slowly began to move the moon along in its path through the sky. She smiled as she seen the sun set, this solidified that her sister was indeed ok and would be returning soon. But a loud groan emits from her stomach and it was then that she realized that she was hungry. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- With a quick flash of light, Celestia and Tom appeared within her bed chambers. A fire was softly burning within the hearth and there were many candles lit around the room to provide ample light. Tom looked around a moment before the thought dawned on him. "Celestia, here I thought you never slept with a pony on the first date.” He chuckled softly. Celestia blushed as she removed her saddlebag. “Well my good Lunar seeing as how you can not recall much at this moment, I assure you that this is not our first date.” “That so? Hmm well I suppose we should get comfortable.” He lost his balance as Celestia used her magic and placed him upon the bed. “I agree.” Tom sat there as she walked over to a dresser and removed her tiara and necklace. She then stepped out of each of her shoes and slid them neatly under the dresser before turning to look at her love with a smile. Tom was untying his boots and placed them at the foot of the bed. He then removed his belt and placed it beside his boots.He removed his top and placed it atop his garments. Celestia slowly and very sultry, walked her way over from her dresser before she stood before him. Her eyes giving off a hint of lust mixed in with the love she had. It was Tom’s turn to use his magic as he picked up the princess and laid her upon the bed on her back. He then laid beside her and looked deep into her eyes. The two stayed that way for a moment before Tom leaned over her and kissed the mare deeply. His soft tongue gently parting her lips and snaking its way into her muzzle. Both appendages fighting with the other, trying to trump one another in their struggle for control. Celestia placed her forelegs on each side of his shoulders and held him close as their kissing continued. Soon though the mare broke the kiss with a gasp as Tom had lightly run his finger tips along her stomach and inner thigh. She could not help but whinny a little as his fingers moved from her thigh to her rear and back again. The human chuckled deeply as his actions caused different things to the Alicorn below him. He ran his tongue from her neck and up under her chin. “How long has it been Princess?” His fingers idlely resting just before her sex. “Too long.” Tom the kissed her deeply once more before plunging three fingers deep into the Alicorn’s moist confine. Celestia moaned into his mouth as her body went ridged and her wings, now stiff, locked her in place. The princess’s human lover slowly withdrew his finger only to plunge them back into her waiting slit. All the while the sun princess moaned into his mouth. A good thing to because it would look pretty bad if the guards came in or one of her servants but Celestia was already taking care of that. With her magic she placed a spell upon the room that would mute any cries from within to any pony who was not within the room. Tom continued his finger treatment till he relaxed and looked down to the panting princess. He then looked into her eyes before sliding down her body and taking her hips within his arms He lifts up her back end and brings his face within mere inches of her sex. Her smell he picked up on was that of sunshine and morning dew, a very pleasing scent. The human moved his tongue in and gave her sex an experimental lick which made Celestia gasp and shudder. Her taste was not all that unpleasant either. Giving another lick of his tongue the female Alicorn squirmed a little. He held fast to her hips and tongued her slit. Using his fingers he parted the lips of her sex, he say the pink moist flesh under it. Diving his tongue within, Celestia gave out a heated moan. She couldn’t take much more of his teasing and wanted him worse then ever now. But no matter what she tried, he would not allow her to move. All she could do was pant, moan and squirm from her human’s onslaught. Before he could continue further, Celestia was able to mutter something under her heated breath. “Lunar enough teasing, I need you now.” Tom was more then happy to oblige. He placed her rear back onto the bed and unbuttoned his jeans. Pulling them off along with his boxers, his hard shaft sprang to life from under the fabric. Celestia watched closely and shuddered as she felt his tip brush against her. Tom leaned in once more and kissed her deeply before thrusting forward and sliding in hilt deep, his sac resting against her rear. Celestia moaned into the kiss but soon broke it and moaned into the blackness and fire light of her bed room. Tom slid his hands under her and held a portion of her body in the air and started to wrack her body in pleasure with each hilting thrust. “Oh yes. Oh Lunar don’t stop. Please by the sun don’t stop.” Tom didn’t stop, he continued his hard slow thrust in and out of her welcoming snatch. The love that the two shared was something far deeper. Something that went back over a thousand years. This single act confirmed everything. “Harder, please.” Her pants and lust filled demands made for an even more intimate thought then he realized. He was soon thrusting into the princess with enough force that she slid back and forth upon the bed. Each thrust brought the sun princess closer and closer to pure bliss. Since Lunar’s death she had never been with another, she couldn’t bring herself to move on from him so she kept to herself and her sister, never letting known her sexual frustrations. “Oh yes. Don’t, don’t stop please, please, please.” Each time she said please, her voice would rise in pitch just a little bit till it was almost a squeak. It did not take long from that point till she let out a loud moan and came hard around her lover’s thrusting rod. Tom was feeling his peak come also and the feeling of his lover’s warm fluids surround his hard prick helped to send him over the edge and moaned out as well. Ropes of his pearly white seed shot from the tip of his member, coating the walls of her sex and her womb. The two lover lay in each other’s embrace, panting heavily and sweating from the force of their love making. Tom chuckled and looked deep into the eyes of the mare below him and ran his fingers through her mane. “Was it good for you?” Celestia smiled. “Totally worth it.” The two laughed before Tom pulled himself from Celestia and laid beside her. She rolled onto her side, the stiffness in her wings diminished and she pressed back against his chest. Tom wrapped his arms around her and held her close, kissing her neck. “I love you Lunar.” “And I you my angel.” The two then slowly let the embrace of sleep take them. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Luna trotted down the hall through the castle to her sister’s room and knocked on the door. It was nearly sunrise and Luna was stopping by to see if her sister had indeed returned last night from her trip. Upon hearing nothing, Luna knocked again and waited. When there was no answer, she used her magic to open the door and peeked her head in. Once she looked inside she sniffed and caught the scent of an odd oder. “What is that odd smell?” The princess of the night walked in and closed the door quitely behind her. She looked to the bed and notice her sister still asleep. She walked around the bed and stood before her sister then nudged her gently. “Tia, awake. It is nearly time to raise the sun.” Celestia’s eyes fluttered open and she beheld the image of her sister. Once her brain had caught up with her she gave a soft eek and sat up fast. “Oh Luna, it’s only you.” The sun princess yawned. “What time is it?” “Nearly dawn dear sister. We had hoped you would have returned before we were awakened but it seemed as though thou was having a grand time.” Celestia smiled and nodded her head. “Indeed I did Luna thank you.’ “One question sister. What in Equestria was that odd smell we found once we came into thy room?” “Smell?” Celestia was confused for a moment till the night’s event hit her like a train. “Oh that, well I was not feeling quite myself you see and didn’t make it to the bathroom in time.” Her alibi would have worked to had Tom not groaned and slowly sat up. Luna’s eyes grew wide as she beheld her eldest sister and the human Lunar. Then it clicked, the smell was that of sex. “Oh good morning Luna....Luna!” Tom nearly jumped out of his skin, luckily he just fell out of the bed with a resounding thud. “Tia we can not believe that thou would do such an act when thou knew that there would be ponies listening.” Celestia just gave her sister a dismissive wave of her hoof. “Relax Luna, I had placed a magic spell within the room to mute anypony on the outside from hearing.” “Well just be thankful we found you and not somepony else.” Luna looked over the bed to see if Tom was ok. Good thing he had slipped his boxers back on before she saw anything. Tom was sitting on the floor, rubbing the sore spot on his head. “If thou must make an appearance might we suggest that thou leave the room one at a time, so is to lower suspicion.” Tom pulled himself back up onto the bed and sat on the side. “That sounds like a good idea. I don’t wish there to be talk if somepony saw us leaving your bedroom at the same time.” Celestia nodded. “I agree. I shall raise the sun then depart first.” “We shall meet thee in the dinning hall dear sister. Also it is good to see thee again our dearest friend.” Then Luna left. Celestia climbed from the bed as Tom was just putting his boots back on. The princess then walked over to her dresser and clothed herself in her royal attire once more. She then walked to the door of her room where she met Tom but not before using a bit of her perfume to mask the smell of sex on her body. She even sprayed Tom with a little of it. As the two stood by the door, Celestia’s horn glowed and the sun began to move through the sky, signaling the dawn of a new day. > The Meaning Of Nobility > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Celestia smiled inwardly to herself as she made her way through the halls of the castle, Tom walked beside her. They had done as Luna suggested. Celestia had left her room first and when no pony was around, Tom left as well. The two met up later on, that is after the guards mistook him for an intruder. But Luna was there to correct things and say that he was a guest of Celestia’s and should be treated with respect. Not wanting to question their rulers, they nodded and went about there duties. The couple had run into Shinning Armor as they were making their way to the dinning hall. Upon hearing the news from his sister, Tom face-palmed and groaned softly. Shinning Armor however stated that only he and Cadence were the only two to know Tom’s true identity and so they left it at that. As the pair entered the dinning hall they were greeted by Celestia’s nephew Prince Blue blood. Tom just shook his head because though his memory was still unaccounted for, He knew that Luna had no offspring so there for Blueblood must be a far distant relation. “You can not be serious? You expect us to eat with this, this peasant? He is not even a pony for the light’s sake and yet here he sits as if we were equals? This is an outrage.” Celestia was about to say something but Tom placed a hand to her shoulder. He glared at the unicorn. “When last I looked this castle belonged to Celestia and Luna, not you. You have no right to question their reasoning regardless of your title. So if I were you ‘prince’ I would sit down and eat my food in peace.” “How dare you speak to me in such a manner. I’ll have you know my royal lineage goes back several hundred years.” Tom waved it off as she sat into his seat. “I care not what blood runs through your veins. I remember hearing about you and your arrogance and attitude. Always looking down to others just because they were not born with a silver spoon in there mouth. It’s ponies like you that give the rest of us a bad name.” “Ha I give ponies like you a bad name. Have you looked in the mirror lately. You’re not even a pony at all. You are a human, the last of a crude and extinct race that is greatly forgot...” Tom had had enough and held out his hand, wrapping the unicorn in a magic aura. “Would you like me to show you just what kind of pony I am?” Blueblood was terrified but he was drawn into Tom’s glowing eyes. It was then he seen just what the human was. The unicorn shook his head in disbelief. “No, it can’t be...you’re... you’re...Lunar Star.” Celestia placed a gentle hoof on Tom’s shoulder and his powers faded, dropping the stallion onto the floor. He looked into Celestia’s eyes and nearly wept. He then hung his head. “Forgive me Celestia.” Celestia in all her grace and wisdom, all the kindness and decency of an age, nuzzled Tom’s cheek. “Be at peace, I am not angered by you defending that which is in your heart.” The human sat back into his chair adjacent from Celestia, just across from Luna. Blueblood then tentatively took his own. Silence filled the dinning hall before Tom spoke. “Yes, I am Lunar but I am also a human. It maybe true that humans are no longer alive in this world but that dose not mean that fate has erased us completely. We thrive on a planet of our own. We live each day with the knowledge that we rule our world but it is not so.” He looked to the plate and the silverware. “Humans are a barbaric species, I know this all to well. They kill without mercy and destroy without thought of rebuild. I wouldn’t be lying if I said that the universe might be better off without them. But that is not to say that all humans are such. There are those among the whole who show unwavering compassion and kindness. Those that think only of others rather then themselves. Those humans such as they are, are few and far between but it dose not mean that they do not exist.” Tom glares at Blueblood. “Those few humans in the face of oppression, hatred and violence still would rather give you the shirt off their back then to watch someone freeze. They are more noble then you will ever be in your entire life. Nothing you say or do will ever change that. Nobility is not a birth right. Nobility is doing what is right, no matter the risk.” He then looked to Celestia. “No matter the risk.” Soon enough their food was brought out. Plates and dishes were place before every pony before any pony even thought to lift a fork. “My lord I...” “Save your comments prince. I wish not to hear them.” The meal continued on in silence for a time before it was broken by Luna. “So dear sister, how was thy trip to Ponyville?” “Oh very enjoyable Luna thank you for asking.” Luna then looked over to Tom before speaking again. “And you Lunar? Do you intend to return to Ponyville after breakfast?” Tom had just finished chewing a forkful of salad before he spoke. “I should yes. I believe Twilight might be worried about me seeing as I did not return last night.” “Thou need not worry about that. We have taken the liberty to inform Twilight Sparkle that thou are here with us. She was a little surprised to know that thou were here. But he assured her that thou was quite safe.” Tom chuckled and shook his head. “Ever since we met I swear she has seen me more like her foal then as somepony older then she.” The three of them laughed and acted as though they were the best of friends for the longest time, in truth they were but to any pony who saw them they would never have known. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “I want a report Sentinel not excuses.” A gryphon stood before Greaves and trembled slightly. “I am sorry my lord we are moving as fast as we can. We have to make sure the the princesses do not detect us. Nor Lunar if the reports are true.” Greaves drummed his claws. “Well make them work faster. That artifact one complete will help me conquer Equestria. With them under our control, no land would oppose us.” “My lord if I may. Why do you risk going against the treaty that was set down over a thousand years ago? We would not be here were it not for the princesses and the savior.” “Because Goran, my ancestors were weak. They were weak because they relied on the magic those ponies possess. With the Ring of Neria, we can make that power ours. Think about it, no more would we have to grovel at their hooves like mere fledglings. We will have the power now and we will use it as we see fit. Now get your feathers moving and tell those lousy slow ass bird brains to keep looking. I won’t be stopped in my goal. Not by you nor anyone.” The gryphon bowed and left. King Greaves rested on his throne and thought deeply about what to do. “Once the Ring of Neria is mine, I will drain the power from those three so called ‘celestial beings’ and their power will be mine. Then no force in the world will stop me. I will rule it all or see it burnt before me. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom was walking through the streets of Canterlot, talking with Princess Cadence. The two had met while Tom walked the castle corridors. Cadence had a few things to pick up from the city and Tom thought he would tag along. Like Shinning Armor had told he and Celestia before, Cadence was aware of Tom’s true identity. “I swear Celestia, Luna and I were trying to keep it one big secret. Then we told Twilight and then next thing we know, you and Shinning knew. We are certain Twilight’s friends will know. Even that pompous Blueblood knows. Well that was my doing.” “I heard what you did to Blueblood. To be honest I’m not surprised one bit. He has always been that way for as long as I have known him. Who better then you to put him in his place.” Tom sighed. “Yes well it’s not like I wanted to. He just got me so mad I wanted to throw him off one of the towers and rid the land of his arrogance. Of course though that is something I would never do. Still I couldn’t stand people like that, even back on Earth. Most guys they just argh... they would make me so mad because they saw themselves as though they were better then others. Thought they were hot stuff, strutting around claiming they could get any girl they wanted.” “Well you are not like that are you?” “Of course not. I could never be that way. Besides, I have the affections of a very spedcial somepony and I don’t need that messed up.” Cadence shot him a glance and her ear twitched at the mention of him having a special somepony. “You have only been here less then a week and already have somepony?” Tom nodded. “Who?” Tom just chuckled and whistled as he continued to walk down the street. “Come on tell me?” Saying nothing, the human continued to walk away, doing his best to ignore her questioning and hiding the smile on his face. Cadence continued her onslaught of questions but each time the human simply shook his head and walked on. Finally she had had enough and refused to move unless he told her. “Fine fine you win.” He leaned into her ear and spoke softly. “Celestia.” “What!” It was the only word she could get out before Tom placed his hand over her mouth. “Shh, not so loud. I don’t think you noticed but I am a Human and if the other ponies of Equestria realized there leader was in love with on such as I do you think they would take that well?” “Well no I guess not but still how did you manage that?” Tom shrugged. “I’m not sure. I used my powers to transport Twilight and her friends, plus myself from the Everfree forest to her library. I had past out after that and don’t remember much afterwards. They say I was out for two days. During then I had a dream of when Lunar, that is to say I was killed. When I finally woke Twilight and her friends, along with Celestia and Luna were there at my bedside.” The two friends took a seat at a bench just outside a shop they had planed to enter. Tom’s voice dropped whenever a Pony would pass by so they would not overhear him as he continued his story. “I spoke to her about it because the dream I had showed her being affectionate. The name rung out in my mind and I soon put two and two together. She loved him, not because they were friends but because they were in love. I started to think it was not so much a dream but a memory. So him and I are one in the same.” Cadence nodded. “It makes sense. So the loved he, i.e you had for her back then is still as strong now as it was then.” “Funny isn’t it?” Cadence shook her head. “I don’t think so. I maybe able to control the ability of love but even I don’t fully understand it. There are many things in this world that we alicorns can’t explain. Love is a powerful emotion. Just like a silk thread it can be easily broken. But then there is love like the one Shinning Armor and I have. A love like that can overcome anything. I believe you and Celestia share the same type. A love that can out last the ages.’ Tom looked to the young Alicorn and smiled. She was right, it was a love that could outlast the ages. “Well enough of this mushy stuff. You said you had to pick up a few things right?” “Yes I did.” “Well then lets go.” Getting up off the bench the two friends turn the corner and enter the shop, giggling and laughing as they do. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was not long before the two emerged. “So you’re saying she likes roses?” Cadence nodded “Why did I not thing of that.” The small alicorn princess giggled. “Not many ponies know that. It dose not matter what color they are, she just loves them.” The two started back to the caslte, Cadence’s saddlebag filled with goodie, flowers and other assorted things. “Hey, Lunar. Can I ask you a question?” “Hmm? Shoot?” “What made you want to become a knight? I mean in all the history books I read not one spoke of a knight before or after you. So what was it?” Tom scratched his chin. “Well to be honest I don’t recall much. Don’t forget that I had not known of my past since bore I came to Equestria but... I believe it was to protect Celestia and Luna at first. They were the only friends I had when I was young since the other colts and fillies didn’t want to play with me, or couldn’t I can’t remember. My folks, that is the ones who raised me brought me before the king and queen. They took one look at me and I could tell that they knew what i was.” Tom sighed. “It went from there, I was introduced to Celestia who was not much older then me and little Luna. The three of us became fast friends and were rarely seen without the other two. We pulled pranks on each other which even lasted into our adulthood. We played games and told stories to each other.” The two friends were soon walking back up to the castle and were greeted by a salute from the guards. “As I grew older I wanted to do all I could for those who cared for me and called me friend. So I joined the royal guard, rose through the ranks and became captain. But i was not satisfied. I knew there had to be more that I could do. So when the Panther War started in the north, our allies called for aid. I was the first to go, even if Celestia and Luna asked that I don’t. It was a grueling three months before we drove them back past the gryphon’s borders. When I return I was was soon knighted for my bravery and proclaimed the princesses champion. As you can guess not many were pleased that I was recognized for what I had done. And it stayed that way during the whole of the war.” “So you wanted to do all you could not just protecting the princesses but all of Equestria?” Tom nodded. “You can say that.” “That’s very noble of you. But don’t you think all that weight would be too much?” “I would be lying if I said it wasn’t but I had both Celestia and Luna behind me so if ever I would falter, they would be there to catch me.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dear Twilight I am sorry I was not back last night but Celestia and I had a lot to catch up on. I will be back sometime this evening. Now then I can preform the transport spell it should be simple. I was told you received a letter earlier today in regards to my whereabouts. I assure you Twilight i am quite safe and even though my spells are limited i can handle most things. I will be looking forward to train tomorrow and hope i don’t let you down. Again I’m sorry I had not said anything sooner. Your friend Star “Well there you are darling. You have your answer straight from the pony’s mouth. Still you say she came to call on Star?” “Yes, she asked him if wanted to go with her on a picnic and that was the last I saw of him.” Twilight was busy looking through the books in her library, intent on finding anything she could on finding out about Lunar. “So he left that afternoon and has not been back since. You receive a letter this morning telling you that he is in Canterlot and now another saying he won’t be back till this evening.” Twilight looked over to her unicorn friend. “What are you saying?” “Well darling, is it not obvious? They are in love. You said that Star is Lunar right?” Twilight nodded. “Well then my dear even you could do the math.” Twilight thought for a moment. Were she in the princess’s hooves and she had not seen the stallion she loved in so long, what would she do? It did not take the purple unicorn long before her jaw drops. “You mean the princess and Star?” Rarity nodded. “It’s only natural darling. If the princess came by and asked for him to join her with some alone time... only one thing could lead to it.” “But... the princess isn’t like that.” “Twilight dear stop being so naive. The princess is a mare just like you and I. From the letters I would think that they were and still are in love.” Twilight thought about this a moment, could it be that she had taken Star to her bed? What were the two really? Were they just close friends or were they something more? > The Proposal > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was slowly becoming dusk within Equestria. A dark Alicorn stallion stands diligently on the outer rim of a hot tub. His violet eyes stares out and to the sky as the sun dips behind the clouds and disappears over the mountains. The twinkling of stars soon cover the sky. The moon and its warming glow begins to shine as it starts its journey through the heavens. He then closed the curtains A door opens behind the stallion, making him turn his head. His silvery mane and tail flowing in the ethereal winds. His gaze soon makes out the form of another alicorn, a white female. “I’m glad you could make it.” “You don’t think I would turn down your invitation do you? The stallion smiled as she drew close and chuckled softly as she nuzzled under his chin. “So tell me Lunar, why did you ask me here? It’s not like you to be so secretive.” The stallion walked over the curtains and pulled them back allowing the light from the moon to bath the room in its pale glow. The white alicorn eyes widened as she looked about the room. The moon’s light as it came into the room, illuminated thousands of tiny stones that lined the walls and ceiling. “You remember when I ordered this room reconstructed don’t you?” The mare nodded. “Well what better way then to use magic infuse moonstones. Whenever Luna’s moon hits this room, it will sparkle like the heavens themself.” He chuckled deeply. “Luna would not speak to me for a week if she heard me say that and might be inclined to throw me from the balcony were she to learn what became of those stones we found in the mountains around the city.” “Lunar its beautiful. But this can’t be the only reason you brought me here.” The stallion shook his head. “No it’s not. Shall we?” He motioned the the bubbling hot tube. The stallion slowly climbed into the tube and sat along the side and gave a sigh of relief. The mare however, using her magic, removed her tiara and necklace, placing them upon a stand she then slipped out of her shoes and slid them together. “Always so prim and proper huh Tia?” The mare giggled. “I do have an image to maintain.” Lunar again chuckled as the white mare joined him, sitting beside him. “I can not tell you how happy I am Lunar. It seemed as though it was only yesterday when my parents introduced you to Luna and I” “Indeed. I was a bit intimidated but you and Luna were the best friends I had always wanted.” The white mare slowly moved closer to the stallion till she was leaning against his side. With a smile she nibbled under his chin. “So? What is the reason you called me here my champion?” Lunar looked to the white mare and smiled before nuzzling her. “First, some champagne.” Lunar’s horn glowed its signature purple and brought over two glasses which the mare graciously took one using her own magic. Hen then poured some of the bubbling liquid into each glass then set it aside. “A toast. To the pursuit of peace and harmony...” The mare was about to clink the glasses together before he spoke again. “To love... and a family.” “Lunar, what do you mean?” He placed the glass he was holding and brought over a small box. “For you.” The white mare took the box from him and even though it was through her magic, her body was shaking. When she opened it and looked inside there lay a solid gold horn ring with an amethyst set into it. The mare brought a hoof to her mouth and stared at the ring, tears staring to well up in her eyes. Lunar lifts the mare’s face and looked into her eyes. “Celestia. I hath known thee for a very long time. It would be a great honor if you were to be my wife. So I must ask you, Celestia, guardian of the solar disk, will you marry me?” The sun princes had tears streaming down her face as she looked at the ring then back to Lunar. She then nodded her head and pulled her hoof away from her mouth before giving a very shakey response. “Yes, yes Lunar I will marry you.” Lunar removed the ring from the box and placed it upon her horn before kissing his now fiance deeply. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom opened his eyes and slowly sat up in bed. He looked around the room, seeing both Twilight and Spike were still sleeping. He turned his head and looked out at the night sky. He sighed deeply and placed his hand on his chest. That one memory had always seem to hit him the hardest because it had such profound meaning. It was still fairly dark out and the only source of light, save for the moon were the lit street lamps. Tom slid to the side of his bed and sat on the end. He hung his head and placed his hands on the back of his head, sighing deeply. “If I had not been killed might I be a king?” He thought to himself. He didn’t want to wake up Spike or Twilight, He got out of bed, placed the new clothes Rarity had made for him and headed downstairs. He looked around the darkened library before walking to the door and left. He walked through the dark streets of Ponyville. He looked up to see the dark houses and closed shutters. The moon’s warm glow gave the ground just enough light so that he could see where he was going. He slowly made his way though town, all the while a cloud harboring a familiar cyan, rainbow maned pegasus followed close behind him. The human soon made his way to the lake just outside Ponyville. There he sat on its banks and just picked up stones and tossing them in. The cloud slowly drew closer before the pegasus spoke. “And just what are you doing out here at this time of night?” Tom’s head shot up and he looked around himself quickly. “Ahem, I’m up here big guy.” Tom quickly looked up and seen a white puffy cloud hovering overhead before returning his gaze back to the moonlit waters. “Hey Rainbow.” “Don’t hey me mister, I asked you a question. What are you doing out here this time of night?” “I could ask you the same thing.” The pegasus hopped off her cloud then trotted up beside her friend. “Don’t change the subject, just answer the question.” Tom sighed deeply. “I couldn’t sleep ok. I just needed to get some fresh air.” “Dose it have anything to do with the princess?” Tom grumbled. “I swear can’t nopony keep a secret in this place?” “Hey hey, take it easy I was just asking.” The human resumed to tossing rocks into the water. “It’s a little of both actually. Well more me then her.” “Care to talk about it? I may not be as book smart as Twilight or as kind as Fluttershy but I’m a good listener.” Tom sighed. “Where do I start. I am sure Twilight has already told who and what I am, correct?” “She might have mentioned it.” “I have been having memories. They come to me in my sleep and sometimes when I am wide awake. There are some when Lunar, that is to say me, was a colt. Luna and I used to prank Celestia from time to time but then she would always get us back in the end.” The rainbow maned mare giggled softly to the thought of both princesses in a prank war. “Then there are others, like tonight that are more...intricate.” “Intricate? How?” “I asked her to marry me Rainbow. Celestia, princess of Equestria was going to be my wife. That is until...” “You died. Yeah Twilight said something like that. She couldn’t find much about you in the Ponyville library so she asked for some books from the Canterlot Royal Library. It was no surprise that they would have more on you then any place in Equestria.” The two sat in silence for a time. They were not paticularly close because they butt heads but that dose not mean that they would not be there for one another. In his few days time in Equestria, he has come to know Twilight and her friends as his own. They were ponies he could confide in, that is aside from Luna and Celestia. “Hey uh Lunar about the day we met. Look I uh just wanted to apologize and well...” With warning Tom felt a kiss laid on his cheek before the pegasus took off back to her cloud and flew away. Tom sat there a bit in shock and lightly places his hand to his cheek. He smiled softly and closed his eyes. “Thanks Rainbow.” In that one act, that one kiss, Rainbow Dash had given him her answer. No matter how bad things might be or how much of himself that he can’t remember, there are those who would stand beside him and be there for him when he needed them. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Slowly the sun rose over the land of Equestria. The sun princess was already up and about. Having raised the sun already, she headed down for breakfast and was met with the same group as before. “Good morning dear sister.” “Good morning Luna, Blueblood, Cadence.” “We heard that....Lord Lunar will not be joining us this morning.” Celestia shook her head. “Lunar’s home for the moment is in Ponyville, under the eye of my student Twilight Sparkle. When I feel that the time is right to return him to his post I will send word. Right now as you all know he is still regaining his memories as well as much of his former strength.” “Yes, sister and I have agreed on this. The best place for Lunar to recover is within Ponyville.” As Celestia took her place at the head of the table, there was one seat left open to her right. It was the seat reserved for Lunar only and every pony at the table knew this. “Sister will thou be setting off for Ponyville again once thy duties are done?” Celestia nodded. “Yes Luna, I thought it would be best if I took Lunar up to Cloudsdale with me to inspect the new Wonderbolt trainees.” “Auntie you can not be serious? Lunar my have returned but the fact is, is that he is not a pony. He may not the same abilities like cloud walking that the pegasi have. He could fall.” Celestia smiled to her nephew. “I have already thought of this Blueblood. Though I do not think it will be needed, I know of a spell that allows other ponies to walk upon the clouds.” As the four of them await the mornings meal, Luna noticed her sister’s features. She was not sure what was bothering her sister so. “Tia, if we may ask, thou seems troubled.” Celestia was in a bit of a daze and as Luna spoke, she shook her head to wake herself from it. “No I am fine Luna really.” “I must say auntie, I see it to and am also concerned.” “It’s nothing, really.” “Tia. We request that thou tell us what bother thee so.” Celestia turned her head to the side. “Luna do you remember what today is?” The younger princess shook her head. She had been gone for a thousand years, in that time, her memories were a little faded. Banishment can do that to a pony. “Do you remember the day Lunar sent me that letter and...” Luna gasped and placed her hoof over her mouth. Both Cadence and Blueblood having not been alive during that would never know but it did not stop them from wondering. “The proposal. Sister has it been that long?” Her eldest sister nodded. “Forgive me for asking but what proposal?” Luna looked beside her to Blueblood. “T’is the day that Lunar asked thy sister for her hoof in marriage. Were he not killed at the end of the Panther Wars, Lunar would be thy brother.” “Are you serious?” The white unicorn looked to the elder Alicorn with wide eyes. “Isn’t obvious Blueblood. Celestia loved and still dose love him. It was only natural that they would marry.” Cadence added. “Well I suppose but still, for as long as I have know her she has not ever taken a look at any stallion.” Celestia looked to them and smiled. She could always find comfort in those closest to her. “To answer your question my dear nephew, I could not bring myself to be with another stallion. Lunar had known Luna and I since we were little. There was a large piece of me missing when died.” “And now that he has returned?” “I could not be more happier.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Come on, I know you can do this.” Tom had his eyes closed and was following Twilight’s instructions. His hands began to glow their normal purple aura as he focused his thoughts. He was attempting a spell upon himself that would allow him to fly without the use of wings. Twilight had found the spell among a number of flight spells. However she never used it because of how difficult it was but she knew that Tom had to be bale to if he was Lunar. His power increased and slowly encompassed his form and slowly his body floated into the air. In a blast of magic his opened his eyes and was floating a few feet off the ground. “You did it! I can’t believe it. That spell was so hard even I didn’t think I could do it.” Tom huffed and panted as he floated in the air. “Just how long is this spell suppose to last?” “Three days.” She looked up to him and could see Tom was a bit tired by the amount of energy he used for the spell. “I guess you’re not at full power yet. Still that was a vast improvement from simply moving objects.” Tom slowly returned to the ground as Twilight trotted over to him, he then promptly fell forward, using the unicorn mare as a brace. “Thanks Twi.” “Come on Star, we should be getting back to the library, I think that should be good for right now. We cant start up again later.” The two walked from the park through the streets of Ponyville back to the library, conversing as they go. “Star if I may, I’m not sure if I asked this already or not but, what made you fall in love with the princess you know before you died.” Tom chuckled and shook his head. His one arm was around the pony and staggered beside her. “What can be said about Celestia. Well she is smart, caring, graceful, kind, incredibly beautiful. But more importantly it’s not all that is on the outside but here.” He touched Twilight’s chest, right above her heart. “Everything about her that made her whom she is, is here. Her inner beauty shadows the outer in more ways then any pony can realize.” > Head in the Cloudsdale > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “You seem reasonably calm, seeing as how you have never ridden in a chariot before.” Tom chuckled to Celestia’s comment. “Should I be worried? I am in a chariot alongside the most beautiful mare in Equestria. Not to mention we are being pulled by two well trained pegasi stallions. By the way, you never said where we were going anyway.” Celestia gave the human sitting beside her a grin and a wink. “That’s my little secret.” They rode on as the sun rose near its apex in the sky. “So Celestia, how was this morning? Eventful I hope.” Celestia sighed.”Well there is not much to tell. There were a few annoyed ponies from Trottingham who where not pleased with their elected officials. They asked that I step in which I then made them aware that it was they, not I that gave them their post. There were loads of paperwork to fill out and laws that had to be looked over. It’s been less then normal since Luna has returned but it’s still a good bit.” “I could not begin to understand the pressures of ruling a Kingdom like this. But I suppose that is a memory I have not yet recalled I guess.” He then looked to the princess of all Equestria and seen a a feeling of sadness within her face. She of course was not showing it but somehow he could just tell. “Celestia? What’s wrong?” “Hmm nothing is wrong Lunar. Why would there be?” Tom then took his hand and gently placed it upon her cheek, electing a soft gasp from the princess’s lips. He turned her head and looked into her eyes before speaking in a soft and caring voice. “Tia, what troubles thee so? I know you have always been strong and hid your feelings behind that mask you wear but I am here now. True that it is I do not recall everything of my former life but you don’t need to be so around me, you know this.” Whether it was the tone or the way he spoke, it would always effect her in the same way. “I am sorry for hiding such things from you. The truth is today is the day you had proposed to me so long ago.” Tom was not as surprised as many might have thought, in fact he had a feeling that was the reason behind the memory he had experienced last night. “I am sorry princess, I did not..” “Know? I know this Lunar believe me. At any rate, we are here.” Tom could not believe his eyes, she had taken him the the home of the pegasi, Cloudsdale. He was excited and also a little fearful because he knew only pegasi and alicorns were the only ones able to walk on clouds. “Uh Tia, you do know I’m not a pony right?” “Yes i know this.” “And you do know that i don’t have wings or anything correct?” The solar princess nodded her head. “Then you must also know that the moment i step out onto those clouds, I will fall right through them. I don’t have the same magic properties that pegasi do.” Celestia only giggled. “You will be fine Lunar, don’t worry.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A gryphon goes flying through the air before connecting with the solid stone floor that was the throne room. The gryphon gurgled of air, hoping to breath, all the while blood was pouring out of a rather large hole in his neck. Greave slowly approached the suffocating gryphon, blood dripping from his beak. He stood over the writhing body till at last it stopped moving. Greaves then looked to the room of soldiers that backed up from around the two of them. “Let this be a lesson to all of you, I will not tolerate disloyalty. You either do as I say or you die. Now get this corpse out of here.” Two guards walked to their fallen comrade and take him by his arm, dragging him away. “And clean up this mess!” Greaves made his way back up to his throne, taking a rag from another gryphon and wiped the blood from his beak before tossing it back to its owner. “Now what progress can I expect to hear bout finding the Ring of Neria?” A young female gryphon stepped forward, clearly shaken by the events that just happened. “No news yet my lord. All crews are working round the clock to finding the tomb.” “I am growing impatient with all this. If they do not find the ring soon we will have to wait till the spring thaw and that is something I do not wish to do. They had better find it soon or there will be hell to pay.” The female nods and departs. Greaves then sighed deeply. “My lord you seem rather stressed. Might I suggest one of the harem females?” “Sex? What makes you think I need such a thing.” Greaves then thought for a moment then rose from his throne. “Perhaps you are right. I do need something to clear my mind of all this horse shit. Send one of the better ones to my chambers and make sure she dose not smell like rotten meat this time.” He then left. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Celestia I don’t think this is such a good idea. I am telling you I can’t walk on clouds. I mean I was only able to do a self flight spell but it didn’t have anything about walking on clouds.” Celestia giggled as she stood before him. “Lunar you have nothing to worry about, trust me.” Tom sighed deeply. “If I fall you had better catch me.” He then closed his eye and took one step off the chariot. Celestia then giggled as Tom stepped onto the cloud and didn’t fall. Tom opened his eyes and looked around himself. He couldn’t believe it, he was walking on clouds. It defied everything he was taught about how clouds worked. He he may have had boots on but the feeling of the clouds beneath his feet felt like he was walking on a firm mattress. “Well this is new.” Celestia watched as Tom tested the density of the clouds he walked on. She smiled and was brought back to another memory that she shared when she and Lunar where children. He would always challenge her to a cloud race. The two would sit on clouds and using their wings, race through the skies. It was less tiring then trying to hold up their own weight. “So, are you fully accustomed now?” “I don’t think I could ever get used to this feeling Tia, anyway why did you ask me to come with you?” “Well since I was headed to Cloudsdale I thought you might to join me, plus meet the Wonderbolts.” Tom’s eyes lit up at the mention of the Wonderbolts. “Are you serious?” Celestia nodded. “I was asked to inspect the new trainee. It seems that their captain Spitfire values my opinion, I can’t say if it matters or not but it’s nice to humor them.” Tom smiled. “I would be honored.” “Then lets go. We can’t keep them waiting.” Tom walked beside Celestia as to two made their way through Cloudsdale. Each pony they passed would bow their heads but then stare in disbelief at a human able to walk upon clouds. “Something has been bugging me. Did you place a spell on me to allow me to walk on Clouds?” Celestia simply shook her head, “I had not had time to preform it. The fact that you are able to walk on clouds is more evidence that you are whom you are. But I should apologize, I asked you here without any idea if you truly were able to tread on clouds.” “Oh it’s alright. I normally would jump in feet first anyway so to speak. Besides, I like to know what it is I am capable of" ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Greaves was in his bed chambers, the sound of slurping and sucking echos through the room. The gryphon king was in a chair with one of his many harem females between his legs, servicing him. His claws were upon her head holding her upon him as she bobbed her head up and down. “Oh such a good little slut. You enjoy pleasuring your king don’t you? The female gryphon says nothing, just goes about her work. Greaves was not one to complain. the less talk there was the more enjoyable it got. The male felt his cock twitch and threw the female off him. He lifts her up, turns her around and shoved his hard and lubed cock into the female’s tight cunt, electing a roar from her. Greaves leaned over the female’s back and bit around her neck, elected another roar from her before he started to thrust hard and deep. Greaves cared not if she got off, all that mattered to him was his own pleasure. He continued his hard pounding, pushing the female forward before he would pull her back into him. The two mated like this for sometime before Greaves roar and shot his load deep into the female’s body. He then pulls from her and stood in front of the female. “You made a mess, clean it off.” Without a word the female took the king’s cock into her mouth and began to suckle, cleaning him of his and her own fluids. Greaves groans and when he felt himself orgasm a second time, he pulled from her beak and covered her face in his load. “Good girl, now leave me. I have much to think on.” The female rose to her legs and bowed her head before she left. “Hmm if Lunar is here, how best to remove him from the picture. Out right confrontation would not work. If he’s as strong as the stories say, he will be a force to reckon with. The princesses are just as strong. So how do I this? The Ring of Neria is only able to hold the magic of one Alicorn. So whom do I choose?” Greaves paced back and forth in his bed chambers. different senarios going through his mind. “Hmmm if I capture Celestia I can take her powers and be on par with that accursed savior. With him out of the way, Luna should not pose to much problem but still we will have to approach her with caution. So that will be that, I will take Celestia’s power and defeat them all.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “I am pleased to see you your highness and who is this you brought with you?” “His name Tom but you might know him better from your history books as Lunar.” Spitfire stumbled back before falling on her haunches. “The founder? The one who created the Wonderbolts... is a human?” Celestia smiled and shook her head. “Yes and no.” “I’m not sure I follow princess.” Before she could reply, Tom placed a hand to her back and looked at Spitfire. “It’s a complicated matter Spitfire. We are here because you asked Celestia to see the new recruit.” The yellow pegasus nodded her head and stood back up before leading them through the Wonderbolts complex. Tom looked to Celestia .“I founded the Wounderbolts?” She nodded. “You and a pegasus known as Star Wind. You felt that there needed to be a specialized group of pegasi for fast recon and tactics. So you scouted out the fastest fliers in Equestria, trained them yourself, well you and Star Wind that is.” It was then Spitfire chimed in. “Honesty, Integrity, Loyalty and an unbreakable will. Those were the words that were past to us from the first Wonderbolts. They said that the two founders made them swear an oath to protect Equestria and the Royal Pony Sisters. But you knew all this, don’t you?” Tom rubbed his head. “That’s why I said the matter was complicated. I was killed during the last few days of the Panther Wars and reborn as you see me. I did not start remembering my old life till I came to Equestria.” “I see well that is quite a story and it would explain how you can walk on clouds. Still Human or Pony, it’s great to have the remaining founder here with us.” “Spitfire we would appreciate it if nopony else knew who Lunar was.” Spitfire was about to protest but when she looked up to the two she saw how serious they were and nodded. “Are there any other things I did that don’t yet know about?” Celestia thought for a moment as they walked through the corridors and entered a large training room. “Oh there were a few other things but I think that will have to wait for another time.” Spitfire whistled hard to get everypony’s attention. “Hey rookie, com here there are two ponies I want you to meet.” A light grey pegasus slowly flew up to the three of them and landed in front of Spitfire and saluted. “Yes cap...tain.” The mare too one look at Celestia and dropped before her. “Afternoon your highness.” “At ease rook, They are just here to see how you fair.” Tom patted Spitfire’s back. “Mind if I?” The pegasus, nodded. Tom then walked up to the pegasus and slowly circled her. Celestia smiled to herself, she was there many times when he inspected new recruits to the Wonderbolt ranks. Tom the moved and opened one of the pegasi’s wings, looking over the feathers. “What is your max wing power?” “Sir?” “Your max wing power, what is it?” “19, nearly 20 wing power sir.” Tom stood before her and rubbed his chin. “Spitfire what is the minimum requirement for a recruit?” “18 sir.” Tom then gets down and looked the pegasus in the eyes. “What is your name?” “Flare Wind sir.” The pegasus mare looked a bit creeped out but nonetheless stood her ground. “Hmm, I want you to train every other day to get your wing power up to no less then 23. I can see you have the drive for it so I expect nothing less.” “That’s all rook you can return to training.” Flare nodded to Spitfire and left them. “Wow an actual inspection from Lunar Star. I can’t believe it, I’m a little jealous.” “Your thoughts princess” Tom turned to look at Celestia. “You saw to her Lunar, what do you say?” Tom watched as the pegasus flew fast around the track. “Hmm she has potential. That being said i think she has what it takes.” > A Night In Canterlot > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ok guys this will be the tenth chapter in my story. I would like take this moment to thank those of you for reading my work. I know the first one I posted here was not met with such good results may that have been error on my part or not. That begin said because you guys wait patiently for each chapter you give me the drive to push myself to give you all more. I thank each of you for your favs, thumbs up and comments. All make writing this more enjoyable. So lets see if we cant hit another ten shall we. Lunar Star It was nearing nightfall when both Tom and the Alicorn princess decided to leave. The two climbed onto her chariot and took off into the fading hour of sunlight. The two pegasi headed high into the air and headed back towards Ponyville. “Change of plans my good sirs. I would much rather return to Canterlot.” Tom then looked to Celestia. “If you don’t mind that is.” “Why would I mind.” She then looked to the two guards pulling the chariot. “To Canterlot.” The two pegasi turned westward back to the capital city. By this time, Tom wanted to learn all he could about his past life. He needed to know just who he was and what was the purpose he was brought here for. He adored Twilight and was honored to have her as his instructor but there were just some things he had to find out on his own. When Celestia looked over to her human she could see he was in deep thought. “Something on your mind?” “Hmm? Oh I was just thinking, instead of finding out who I was or am as the case maybe. I just thought what better way to recover my memories quicker then to read about them.” “That is a very good way to go about it however reading about your own exploits I believe will not have any effect. Those accounts are written from another pony’s perspective of your actions. Some details might have been left out, may it be do to time or lack of evidence.” “Well then you could tell me.” Celestia shook her head. “I could only be of help for the times we were together. There were times when you were sent out on missions of diplomacy and others of aggression. Those times I know nothing about because I was not with you. I know it is hard not knowing whom you were but it is the only way for you to know for certain about yourself.” Tom sighed. “Yeah I guess you’re right. Still it was a thought.” Celestia then leaned gently against his side and placed her head under his chin. Tom wrapped his arm over her and held her close. The two soldiers pulling the chariot saw this display of affection but said nothing. They were not about to question their princess’s actions. She was wise beyond understanding so they figured that she knew what she was doing. The sun was already set over the horizon when they landed just inside the caste courtyard. The two lovers dismount and walk up the path into the castle where they were met by Luna. “Ah good evening little sister. I trust you slept well?” “Indeed we did dear sister thank thou for asking.” She then looked to Tom. “Will thou be staying with us again our dear friend?” Tom nodded. “Yes I figured I would alternate between Canterlot and Ponyville. This way I would still keep in contact with my friends in both places. At least this way nopony feels left out. Besides, it’s a longer flight to Ponyville anyhow, Twilight knows I left with Celestia so she won’t worry. That is I hope she won’t.” “Hath thou received thy invitation to the Gala in less then a week’s time?” “Indeed I did. When Rarity found out about it she became hysterical and told me I just had to come by her shop so that she could make me a suit to wear. I am not one to be wearing a penguin suit so I asked her to just make a vest for the top, something tasteful but not too over the top.” All three friends laughed at the thought of Tom being dragged off to be fitted for a suit. “At any rate, sister might we be inclined to borrow your stallion for a bit?” Tom and Celestia looked at each other before looking back to Luna. “Of course you can Luna, he is just as much my closest friend as he is yours.” She then nuzzled Tom cheek and spoke in a hushed tone. “I’ll be waiting for you my stud.” Celestia then trots off back into the castle, leaving the night princess and him alone. “So princess what was it you wanted me for?” “We have need of thy help. Their is a patch of flowers that hath not bloomed.” Tom was not sure what he could do but he would give it a shot. He nodded in acceptance and followed Luna closely as she lead him around to the side of the castle. On the side just next to the north tower were a small patch of flowers that were closed up. “How long have they been like this?” “A forth night it would seem. Sister and I have thought of ways to make them bloom but nothing hath worked thus far.” Tom gently too one of the budded flowers into his hands and lightly ran his fingers over them. His mind wondered what kind of flower would not bloom even in daylight. Then the thought occured to him. “They are night blooming flowers. They need the light of the moon and stars to open. There are some types of insects that help these flowers thrive.” “But we have tried that and it did not happen.” “Did you make sure that the moon was just overhead?” “Ye... no.” Tom chuckled and shook his head. “Well there is your answer. We have the same type of flowers on Earth. They are nicknamed ‘Midnight flowers’ because they won’t open unless the moons rays are just right.” “We see, we will have to wait and confirm this statement..” “Well I hope it goes good Luna. I should be heading in, your sister is waiting for me.” “One more thing our dearest friend. We wish to know something." Tom shrugged. “Ask away Luna." “Our sister. Her heat will be coming in soon and we thought it would be proper to tell thee. We believe that our sister as strange as it may sound wishes to have a foal with thee." Well this was a bit of a shock. He had only been in Equestria for little less then a week. He realized that he was at one point Lunar Star and that he loved Celestia deeply but a foal? Was that even possible? “Are you certain of this Luna?” The Alicorn nodded her head. “Quite certain.” Tom rubbed his head and gave a nervous laugh. “Huh a kid you say? That’s a new one. When is her heat?" “In three weeks time." The two friends conversed for a time longer on the subject. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom waved the dark Alicorn and walked back around to the front of the castle and inside. Using a spell Twilight had taught him he made himself invisible if he didn’t move. So he ran the risk of being spotted if he made even the slightest movement. Still it served its purpose as he made his way through the dark corridors, evading the guards. “Gods I feel like I’m in Medal Gear Solid.” It took him a little bit to enter the hall with Celestia’s bed chambers in it. When he looked he saw to guards standing watch. “Course right.” Using the flight spell that had not yet wore off he flew above the two guards and floated above them. “Hmm.. how to get them to move.” His mind then returned to the day he and Luna spooked Celestia when they were small. But seeing a ghost might not work with a unicorn standing there. “I got it.” Using his magic he created a copy of himself coming up the hall as soon as he was spotted, both guards turned and tried to stop the illusion. But it walked right past them and through Celestia’s bedroom doors. The guards instinctivly followed and opened the doors, allowing Tom to float right in. “What is the meaning of this?” “We are deeply sorry your highness but we seen a figure come in here.” Celestia was puzzled. “What figure?” The guards went about what had happened, when they got to discribing the figure Celestia knew who it was. “Do not concern yourselves, it was probably Luna just playing a prank. Now return to your post.” Once they had left and shut the door, Celestia looked up overhead. “That was not a nice thing you did Lunar.” Tom drifts down from the shadows and lands before her. “How else was I to get in. Incase you didn’t notice Tia, there were two guards at your door, they would have locked me up without a word.” “You could have easily gotten out of there if you wanted to.” Tom shook his head and walked to the fire place. “I could have perhaps. But where would the fun be in that?” Celestia soon joins him by his side and leaned gently against him. Tom could not help but feel her love and that of her sister. The two along with Twilight and her friends had helped him through this rough time. “My life has changed so much in these last few days then all the years I spent on Earth. Truly whatever force brought me here, I am thankful.” “As am I. I had often wondered what our lives might have been like where the fates been kinder. Tom shook his head. “Things happen for a reason Celestia. We can spend all our lives trying to figure out why things happen the way they do and never find out.” Celestia then nibbled sweetly upon his neck and smiled. “Well why worry about it now when we know our fate tonight.” Tom chuckled softly. “You insatiable you know that?” Celestia giggled as she turned around and ran her tail under his chin, making her way to the bed. “With over a thousand years without you, I am making up for lost time.” Tom chuckled and turned to watch the princess remove her jewelry and again being the royal and proper pony she is, set them in their places on her dresser. Tom had removed the shirt that Rarity had made for him and placed it to the side of the bed. He removed his boots and pants, only left in his boxers now he climbed up onto the bed before he was pushed onto his back and sat upon by the princess. He smiled to her. “So princess you have your prisoner, what do you plan to do with him?” “Oh you are no where near my prisoner. However there is something I wished to do.” She rose up off him and turned around before once again laying upon his body. Again using the same spell as before she casts it so that no pony could hear them but as an added precaution she made sure to lock the door. All the while the white mare’s puffy lips sitting right in front of the humans face. With an evil grin and leans up and runs his tongue from the base to the tip just near her tight pucker, this made her arch her head up and elected a gasp and moan from the mare sitting above him. Celestia trembles from the pleasure her human lover is giving to her. Not wanting him to feel left out and eyeing the bulge under his boxers, the princess nuzzled his boxers down past his thighs and seen as his erection sprang to life. She eyes his cock at first, examining it as she continues to shudder and pant from the human’s tongue lashing to her now moist sex. Without taking another thought on the matter she runs her tongue up from the base of his shaft right to the tip. This made Tom squirm a little to which Celestia grinned but then moaned out as he pulled apart her puffy lips and ran his tongue along the pink inner flesh. Not wanting to be out done, the mare lowered her head and engulfed his member into her muzzle and started to suckle upon it, lightly bobbing her head. This made Tom’s efforts even more pressing. What started out as a night of passion soon became a game of ‘who could could make who cum first’. Still it was all in good fun and that’s all that mattered right? Celestia lowered her muzzle further down the human’s cock till her nose touched his sack and she pulled her muzzle back up slowly. Tom on the other hoof dipped his tongue into her wanton flower and licked the very inner sanctum of his lovers sex. Each continued to one up the other, all the while their moans and cries of pleasure echoed into the room. Soon enough however the princess could not take anymore of her lover’s tongue bathing and released his cock from her mouth and moaned into the night. Her head arched up and her wings went stiff. She could not help but moan out his name as she came. Panting softly she looked over her shoulder to her love still face buried with her dripping sex. “Oh Lunar you sure know how to show a mare a good time.” Tom chuckled. “Was there ever any doubt, but I must say you don’t seem at all ready to surrender just yet.” “Hmm maybe if drilled me for a time I might just consider defeat.” Sliding his way out from under her, Tom propped himself up onto his knees behind Celestia and rubbed the tip of his cock just passed her outer lips to which the princess gave a shudder. She looked back over her shoulder to him and half -lid her eyes, giving her more of a sultry look. “If you don’t put it in I will do it myself.” “Oh ho is that a threat.” Before he could react he felt a grip wrap around his memeber and give it a firm squeeze. “That’s a promise.” Not wanting to forgo any longer he obliged the princess and pushed forward, sinking his hard cock deep into his lover’s body. Celestia had again moan out into the night but was caught by her lovers lips. Their kiss muffling most of the groans and grunt from their union as the human began to slide back and forth within the confines of her moist inner walls. Upon breaking their passionate kiss the two lean there foreheads against one another and pant heavily. Because she had came earlier, Celestia was more sensitive this time around and it felt like her body was on fire. She loved ever moment of their love-making. It just set her spirit ablaze like nothing else could. “Oh yes Lunar. Oh please don’t stop.” Hearing her request, he didn’t. He continued his long hard thrust in and out of her dripping snatch. Every so often coming in contact with her cervix which made the princess moan in ways he never thought about. Her soft velvety walls caressing his shaft. The rippling of her muscles near made him cum then and there but he groaned to stop himself which made his cock throb all the more and lightly spread her wider, elected a gasp from the mare. Slaps of flesh connecting with flesh rose into the air but the noises were soon increased as Tom sped up his thrusting motion. “Oh yes, harder, deeper.” Again he was happy to oblige her and did as she asked, making his thrust that much harder and hilted against her so that they were that much deeper. Each deep thrust making the princess whinny with delight. It did not take long however till Tom could feel that familiar tightness that came with an orgasm. Celestia could feel it too because her second was coming on and fast. The more her lover pounded her, the more closer she drew till she could not hold it anymore and moan out into the room. “Oh Lunar!” Her warm fluids coating his shaft and pushed Tom over the edge as he too came deep within there mare before him. Nothing could ever beat this, nothing. Celestia quivered as her stallion filled her with his essence and laid on her side. Tom pulled free from her and laid beside her. Celestia pressed back against him, spooning him. Tom used his magic and drew the cover up and over them to hide there act along with his nakedness. “Sweet dreams my sun goddess.” “Sleep well my dark knight.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was not till hours into the night that Tom awoke once more. He looked about himself and saw the sleeping Celestia before him. Smiling to himself he kissed her cheek and slowly slid himself from the bed so was not to wake her. He moved to the front of the bed and grabbed his boxers, putting them on. He then walked out to the balcony that was connected to Celestia’s room. He looked up into the starry sky and sigh, folding his arms over his chest. “My memories may not have fully returned and the thoughts of my Earthly home still linger within my mind but...” He turned and looked at Celestia. “I feel at peace here, Like I have finally been brought back home.” He then looked up to the night sky. “I’m not sure whom you are or if you can even hear me but I want to say thank you, Thank you for bringing me back home, where I belong.” He then walks back into the room and climbed back into the bed behind Celestia and allowed sleep to take him once more. > Visions Of The Past > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- A young dark blue Alicorn colt ran through the halls of the castle. He was closely followed by a smaller dark blue Alicorn filly. “Hurry Luna or she’ll get us.” “I’m coming big brother.” The two were being closely chased by a rather irate white Alicorn filly with a flowing pink mane. “Just you wait till I get my hooves on you two.” The colt looked over his shoulder. “I can’t honestly understand why you’re so mad, pink suits you.” He then bursts out laughing as he and Luna duck past servants and soldiers alike in their attempt to escape the white filly’s wrath. “You two are so going to get it.” The colt and Luna laughed the whole time they were running. They had tampered with the white filly’s shampoo, putting in a food coloring so that when the filly went to wash her hair it turned pink. Her screams were the starting pistol for the colt and Luna to run for their lives. As the two rounded the corner, the colt noticed an open balcony. “Come on Luna there’s our way out.” “But I don’t know how to fly yet.” “That’s ok, you can hop on my back.” “O-ok” The colt allowed the smaller filly to climb up onto his back before looking out over the lush forest that surrounded the castle. “Lunar don’t you even think about it.” “Why Tia whatever do you mean?” The colt grinned and jumped off the balcony and into the air, with Luna giggling on his back. She waved to the white filly. “Bye big sister.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom sat up abruptly in bed. It was still rather dark out and from the sounds of light breathing next to him, he could only guess that day break was not for another few hours. He yawned deeply and looked to the sleeping white mare beside him. The memories of their childhood seemed like the two would have never ended up as they are now. Somehow, for some reason, they did and it was the best thing in the world. He lay back down beside Celestia and lightly rubbed her neck and side, receiving a pleasant sound for his efforts. The white mare slowly turned her head to her lover and smiled softly. “Hi.” Tom smiled. “Hi” “Is it time to get up yet?” Tom shook his head. “I don’t think so. Besides, you been doing this how long and you ask me if it’s time?” Celestia giggled softly. “Fair enough.” She then gave Tom a kiss and laid her head back down to return to her sleep. Tom stayed up a little while longer, just admiring the night Luna had made before laying back down and returning to sleep. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Come on Tia stop being such a worry wort.” “Lunar, mother and father told us not to fly just yet because the winds can blow at anytime.” “Ah what do they know. Besides they aren’t here and Sunny Day is looking after Luna ever since she got that cold.” Celestia sighed. “Come on Lunar be reasonable.” The slightly larger colt waved her off and took off from the northern balcony. He flew through the air, allowing the currents to take him higher then the last time he did it. “That Celestia, just because she’s the daughter of the king and queen she thinks she can tell me what to do. I’m my own colt for the stars sake. Besides, Life’s no fun if you don’t take risks.” Just as his thoughts reach the end of their line, a fierce wind blew from the colt’s left side and sent him twisting and spinning out of control. He figured Celestia must have seen because as he tumbled he caught sight of her but she would not reach him in time as he crashed through the trees of the forest below. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was sometime before the colt came to and realized he was in his bed within the castle. He looked about the room and only then did he hear the sound of light breathing. He looked to his side and saw a head of a white mare next to him, asleep. “She has not left your side you know.” The colt looked to the door and seen a cyan mare with a white mane and tail. “How long was I out?” “Not long, a few hours.” The colt looked back to the sleeping Celestia. “I guess I’m in trouble when the Celestia’s mom and dad get back huh?” The earth pony mare walked over to the colt’s bed. “Well it would be hard to explain to them about the bandage on your broken wing. Honestly from a fall that high, the princess thought you were dead because you were not moving when she found you.” “I should have listened to her.” “I don’t pretend to know the princess’s feelings young master Lunar but I will say one thing. The princess has a deep affection for you whether you see it or not. Of course she is just as stubborn as you are and won’t admit to it.” Lunar looked to the sleeping mare beside him. “Autumn, I... I am sorry I put her through so much grief when we were kids.” The mare giggled softly. “Master Lunar you are still a child. Such acts are expected.” Lunar laid back and put his head on his pillow. He sighed deeply and looked up to the ceiling. “Shall I wake the princess?” Lunar shook his head. “Then I will leave the two of you be. You need your rest young master.” The mare then left the room with both Lunar and the sleeping Celestia. Lunar then looked over to the sleeping princess an gently blew into her ear, slowly waking her. Celestia yawned and stretched but when she had seen Lunar was awake she nearly scolded him for not listening to her in the first place. “Are you ok? Dose it hurt?” Lunar shook his head. “I seen you, you know, coming for me. I’m sorry I didn’t listen. I’m always getting you in trouble with your mom and dad. Even sweet Luna gets scolded because of me.” “Lunar it’s not your fault. Luna and I are just as much to blame as you. Just our parents are here and your’s...” “Aren’t, I know Tia. My mom and dad were killed by Diamond Dogs. That's when I came to live in the castle with you and Luna, I was just a foal then. Still for all the bad things I did to you, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean any of them.” Celestia leaned forward and placed a gentle kiss upon the colt’s forehead. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom again woke to the sound of knocking on Celestia’s bedroom door. “Princess are you in there?” Celestia’s head soon shot up at the realization that it was not her sister at the door. Tom fell out of bed again as the lock unhooked itself and the door opened. “Phew, your highness honestly if you are going to do something like that in the privacy of your... own.” The unicorn mare caught sight of Tom’s clothes. “Your highness who’s are these?” “Well they are...” Feeling himself come to the notion that they could not keep hiding their relationship any longer, at least from the staff, Tom rose in only his boxers. “Those would be mine.” The mare looked to Tom then to Celestia and then back to Tom before she backed away slowly and screamed for the guards as she ran down the hall. This wasn’t going to end well. Tom or Celestia didn’t have time to react as the human was soon pinned to the floor and spears were pointed at his face. “Guards what is the meaning of this, release him at once.” “Sorry your highness but we can’t do that. Your safety as well as the Safety of Princess Luna is our top concern.” “Do I even look remotely in danger?” “Sorry ma’am but we can’t take that chance.” This was going nowhere and Tom was getting a bit irritated. So to release his pent up aggression, he used his magic and propelled the guards a few feet away from him and floated into the air. “Fools, you know not the one of whom you accost!” A purple aura swirled around him as he spoke. “So for those who can not fathom the notion, listen well. I am Lunar Star, protector of the Royal Sisters, guardian of Equestria and Lord of the Star of Aegis. Countless lives have fallen to the might of my hooves and I shall watch countless more before the underworld takes me again. All shall know my power and despair!” All the guards, including Celestia stood with mouths agape at the display. They looked to their princess for answer but all she could tell them was to leave and wait out in the hall. They did obediently and closed the door. Celestia then walked over to her lover as he floated a few feet from the ground, his eyes glowed white as he looked to her. Placing a gentle hoof to his leg made him drift down and the immense magic power he was emitting to disappear. He then slumped again his love as she held him up. “Please forgive me Tia. I am not sure what came over me.” “Lunar enough. I understand you frustrations believe me. I am just glad it was you that blew up and not I. Come on, you have to get dressed, there is a lot of explaining to do.” Tom took his time placing his clothes back on. He knew there were going to be questions and as such, didn’t really want to deal with them. But he pressed those thoughts deep down and did his best to be whom he was. As the door to Celestia’s bed chambers opened, Tom, leaning against Celestia, stepped out. The soldiers would not dare come near him, not after what they saw. “Um... excuse me, my lord?” A soft and gentle voice came from his left side and a young light orange unicorn mare stepped between the soldiers. “Autumn don’t go near him.” The mare ignored their words and slowly approached. “I am sorry for my sister’s action Lord Lunar.” “Autumn? Autumn Breeze?” The unicorn nodded and dipped her head. “She was my ancestor lord. My family had passed down tales of you and the princesses for generations. Please forgive my sister Summer, she didn’t know who you were.” “I can understand your sister’s reason. I take it I look a bit different then before I was killed.” “Sir, with her majesty’s permission I would like to become your servitor just as my ancestor was. While you’re in Canterlot that is.” Tom looked to Celestia, to which she nodded. “Well so much for keeping it hushed. I suppose an address to the kingdom is in order?” “Perhaps but not as of now, that little stunt you did sapped your energy. Might I suggest breakfast first.” Tom nodded as Celestia and Autumn helped him through the castle to the dinning hall. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Clouds above what the hell was that?” A gryphon that sat on his hind legs shook his head. “Such power and that’s only a portion.” “Grain you’re not saying that’s who I think it was is it?” The gryphon nodded. “I am afraid so. What’s odd is that every time we felt it, it has grown stronger so it stands to reason that whoever possesses Lunar’s power...” “Will gain complete control in a matter of days. Grain this is not looking good. I say we hightail it the hell out of here. We can go into exile.” Grain again shook his head. “If we did and either side found out, we are as good as dead. Greaves would kill us for sure and if Greaves succeeds and take power from one of the three, the other side will come looking for us once they find out we deserted. I am afraid we are stuck Gallen. Until one side makes a move, we can only watch.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Good heavens, what happened? We heard a thunderous boom coming from the one side of the castle. At first we thought it was aunt Luna but she’s been here with us.” Tom sighed as Autumn and Celestia helped him over to his chair. “I am afraid that was me Blueblood.” “Are you ok?” Tom smiled. “I am quite alright Cadence, thank you. It seems Celestia and I were found out this morning. The guards rushed me thinking I was a threat. I can not blame them for doing their job.” Tom watched as Luna put a hoof to her face, making him chuckle. > The Past Returns > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- After breakfast, Tom walked through the castle followed closely by Autumn Breeze. Tom looked back over his shoulder to the unicorn. “You don’t need to follow me everywhere Autumn.” “I am your servant master Lunar. I should be with you so whenever you need me I can attend you without interruption.” “Well I suppose I will need your support for when Celestia addresses Canterlot.” During breakfast it was decided that they would take Lunar’s reintroduction slow, informing Canterlot first, next would be Ponyville and so on. “I understand your anxiety my lord but everything shall be ok. The princess knows what she is doing.” “It’s not Tia or Luna I worry about.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Well that could have gone better.” “Honestly I thought it went rather well considering they didn’t run in terror when you showed them your magic.” Tom rubbed his forehead as he heard giggling coming from behind him. Both Celestia and Cadence were talking as they approached him in the hall. He sighed deeply as Cadence walked on, leaving the three of them alone. “Autumn Breeze?” “Yes your highness.” “I would like to talk to Lunar in private.” The unicorn dipped her head and started down the hall. Once she was out of sight Celestia walked over to her love and nuzzled him. “I believe I have been hiding something from you for long enough, Come with me.” Tom nodded his head and followed closely behind Celestia as she lead him through the corridors of the castle. She soon came to a winding staircase and started down. “Tia where are you taking me?” “I have something to give you. Call it a gift.” Nothing was said till they reached what Tom could only guess was the armory. The walls were decked out in suits of armor and helmets. Swords hung on racks. He figured only unicorns could have used them since other ponies had not the means to do so. She lead him passed a door that lead into what he could only guess was a private section on the armory. On one side hung an armor that he knew. It was silver in tone and trimmed in gold. On the chest plate was the symbol of the sun, the design matched Celestia’s cutie mark to the letter. Tom slowly drew close to it and lightly ran his finger over the polished surface. “I know this armor. You were wearing it the day...I was killed.” He then turned and hanging before him was another yet smaller suit of armor, trimmed in lapis that bore a crescent moon. They both had holes for their wings and horn. “And this... this is Luna’s” “And this my dearest Lunar, is yours.” Celestia stepped aside to reveal a third suit of armor along with a portrait of the owner. but the sheen of the metal was not like the others. The style matched Celestia as it was trimmed in gold. As Tom drew closer he seen th symbol upon the chest plate, a crescent moon and a single star. Slowly he reached out to it and lightly ran his fingers over the plate. “It’s not like the other two, why?” He turned to Celestia. “It’s made from Platinum. Since you were always on the front lines, Luna and I commissioned that yours be made from magic infuse platinum. It’s a natural purifier and negates dark magic.” Tom the turned his gaze up to the picture. There hanging before him was his former self. The stallion was rugged, standing an inch or so taller then Celestia. His fur was a deep shade of blue. His mane and tail were a shimmering silver and his eyes were a shade of lavender. They held purpose, dedication and a will that could not be broken. Upon his flank lay his cutie mark. It matched that with the symbol on the armor. A glint of blue then caught his eye and he was drawn to a pedestal in which three swords lay. “They are ours. Aurora is mine. Nieriah is Luna’s and...” + “Naisha , the light of the North Star. I remember, she...helped me through the rough battles that laid before me. Her crystal blade slew many of the enemies foot soldiers.” The sword in question was ornate. The cobalt crystal blade was nearly unbreakable, the hilt was gold and looked like a pair of wings. the tip of the handle was that of a unicorn’s head, sealing the idea that the pummel was to resemble an Alicorn. Tom lightly wrapped his fingers around the handle and slid it from the table. He held it out and a surge of power came through his body and lit up the blade which slowly pulsed with magic. “She is yours Lunar. Each of our blades and armor are attuned to us. We have never needed them since those days and I hope we never do again. But since everypony knows whom you are, I believe it best to reunite you.” “But my armor, it was made for an Alicorn, not a human.” Celesta placed a hoof to his chest and then laid her head against his chest as well. “Worry not, when you have need of it, it will come to you. The sword however, I suggest you keep it with you. I do not know what lay beyond the horizon but I feel it can not be good.” Being reunited with his blade brought back a slew of memories, many of which were more oriented around Celestia and Luna. “Come on, we should be heading back before Autumn starts to worry about you.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was late afternoon when the chariot carrying Celestia and Tom arrived back in Ponyville. Most ponies after seeing the two of them together just took it in stride and kneeled before them both. Tom smiled before Twilight trotted up the road to meet them. “I must be getting back or Luna will have a fit.” Tom chuckled. “And here I thought she liked the idea of running the country.” “Don’t give her any ideas.” Tom then leaned up and kissed Celestia sweetly which elected some gasps from those who saw. The two didn’t care so much. Soon word would spread anyway. “I’ll see you in two days.” “Well I would hope so, the Gala is in two days.” Tom smiled. “Is that right. Well then my princess, I will see you then.” Celestia leaned in close. “Till then my stallion, be safe.” Tom nods as she its back and the two pegasi pulling the chariot take to the air. Tom waves as dose Twilight before they are out of sight. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A gryphon quickly runs into the throne room of their king, something was clutched between his claws. “My lord Greaves we found it, the Ring of Neira sir.” Greaves jumped from his seat of power and lands just in front of the approaching gryphon. “Give it to me.” The gryphon drops the ring into the king’s claw and backs away as he stares at it. “Now all that is left is the stone. Once they are together, the ring’s true potential will be ours. We will capture princess Celestia, with her out of the way, taking out her knight and younger sister should be as easy as plucking a feather.” “My lord we shall conduct a search of the area in which the text states. When we find the stone we shall be sure to tell you.” Greaves just marveled at the ring and grin to himself. “Very well, keep me informed.” As the gryphon leaves, the king stares at the ring. “Very soon now.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom was making his way back into the Everfree Forest for a favor Twilight had asked him. He could not believe himself. Why did he agree to do this? The two times he was here did not end well. He looked up to those cursed trees. “But if it were not for these woods, Who knows where I would be.” With a deep breath, he took a step forward into the forest. Unlike the other times, he was alone but at least he had his sword. “So a Zebra named Zecora, why am I not surprised.” Tom made his way through the forest a good bit before he came upon a tree home. Outside was decorated in native masks and charms. “Hmm reminds me of the African culture. Course though right. Zebra, Africa.” He chuckled before knocking on the door. When no pony answered, he knocked again but the second time the door was open. Tom peeked his head in and looked around. It was a mess, things were thrown about or shredded. “Oh gods what is that smell?” No sooner did he utter those words then he found a dead panther hidden under the fallen curtains. “Panthers. I thought we did away with their kind.” Tom had never hunted a day in his life so he had no idea on how to track but something had come over him as he looked through the mess of the home. He could see where the struggle took place, and how many their were. “She fought back, but they didn’t kill her. They needed her for something.” He looked over to the dead panther and seen that its neck was crushed. The battle must not have been that long ago since the body was still warm. Not wanting to leave the body to rot and stink the house up, Tom gripped the bipedal feline by the arms and dragged it from the tree home and into the forest around it, tossing it into the bushes. He looked around and noticed footprints in the ground. “They must have carried her away.” As he looked to where they were headed, he noticed they lead deeper into the forest. Form what he already new about the forest and what he was told, the Everfree Forest was a dangerous place and though his mind was screaming for him to get the hell out of there, his heart told him that there was a pony in trouble and needed help. So with another deep breath, Tom followed the tracks into the darkened forest. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was a little while into his search as he followed the tracks and broken limbs of low hanging branches til he came upon a small cave on a cliff face. A fire sat outside on the cave mouth, two panther sentries sat beside it. As Tom watched the two converse in their native tongue, a deep seated anger slowly started to build within him. Slowly like a predator stalking his prey he crept up upon the two, using the shadows and some of his magic as he grew closer. He slowly and silently drew his sword, he then snuck up closer to one of them before thrusting his sword through the feline’s neck, his invisibilty wearing off, making the other panther jump and reach for his spear but Tom was quicker. Using his magic he shot the feline off the cliff into the forest below. Pulling his sword from the panther, he kicks the corpse off the cliff. He then makes his way into the dark cave, closely listening to the speech of the panther and one other. It’s an odd dialect, a deep accent. “Swahili maybe?” He made his way deeper into the cave’s twisted corridors until he came upon a large hall. There was a panther sitting upon a stone throne. She was dressed in silk and wore golden jewelery. Upon her head was a golden tiara. Two more muscular Panthers stood on either side. “So what you are saying is that you will not help us.” “You have caused pain to all you know. So I demand you let me go.” “I am sorry Zebra but if you will not help us, we must make sure you help no others.” That was all Tom needed to hear. He thrusts his sword through the chest of a panther standing before him, its blood spewing from the gapping wound once the blade was withdrawn. Another Panther ran towards him with its spear ready. Tom grabbed the spear and spun around, connecting the horn of the Alicorn head at the tip of his sword’s handle into the feline’s back, making it drop to a knee before the human took a swing of his sword and severed the creatures head. The sicking sound of the blade cutting through flesh and bone as well as the spray of blood echoed off the stone walls. “Enough!” The panther sitting on the throne raised her paw. “What creature are you to swing your blade against us in such anger. Who are you?” “Who I am is not important but you have a subject of Equestria in your keep. It is she I come for.” The panther leader looked to the human then to the blade he held that was now covered in the blood of those who fell before him. “That sword. I know that sword but the wielder died an age ago.” She then looked to the human’s face. “You’re the destroyer, aren’t you? Only he carried a sword like the one you now hold. Who are you? Even enemies should respect each other.” Tom scoffed. “Respect? Your kind killed without pity or remorse. In my opinion you got what you deserve and if you must know, my name is Tom but your history might know me better as Lunar Star.” The remaining panthers that surrounded the human took a step back at the name. Tom looked about himself as they did. Apparently they knew him rather well it seemed. “Yes our history dose speak of you. You killed countless numbers of us, burned our homes, drove us from our lands.” “Your kind invaded ours! You struck first, killing entire villages, raping innocent ponies and gryphons alike. Those who could not defend themselves. We did what was needed to make sure you didn’t do it again. The fact that you still live is a testament to the Princesses pity for your race. If I had my way your kind would be wipe from the land for all time.” The panther queen sat on her throne and thought deeply. She knew with as few of her men as there were, they would not last long. “There were accounts that you were killed during those last days, how is it you walk among us, not to mention this new form you have taken.” “That’s none of your concern.” Tom then looked to Zecora. “Zecora, come on, we are leaving.” “No she was brought here to help us.” “To hell with helping you, Zecora run!” Tom held his hand up to the cave ceiling and used his magic to cause a cave in. He then turned and ran as the ceiling was falling behind him, screams and shouts filled the corridors of the cavern before he threw himself from the cave mouth and slide on the ground. Slowly raising to his knees, he brushed himself off and saw the zebra mare standing before him. “You do not know me yet you risked your life. Indebted you would only be right.” Tom shook his head. “I only did what I thought was right. Besides, Twilight asked if you might make her some tea bags.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom’s return to Ponyville thankfully went unnoticed as he was covered in blood. He opened the door to the library and called up to the unicorn. “Twilight, I’m back.” “About time you got back I started to.. oh my. What in Celestia’s name happened to you?” Tom placed the bundle upon the table and shook his head. “Don’t ask. I just need a bath. If anypony needs me they will have to wait.” Tom the disappeared upstairs and the sound of a freaked out dragon could be heard before the sound of running water drowned it out. > The Gala > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Ah really appreciate the help Star, ever since Big Machintosh hurt his leg, it’s been only me able to buck these apples.” “Eh don’t worry Applejack, I heard you were a bit short hoofed and thought I would offer my services.” “Well that mighty kind of ya Star. Ah heard from Twi that yer some kind of reborn pony.” Tom nodded his head. “Alicorn to be exact.” “Is that right? Well I reckon it explains how come you could use magic and all that.” The two continue there work and converse the whole afternoon and into the early evening. Once everything was done and everything was placed back where they needed to be, they headed back to the farmhouse. “So AJ, you going to the Gala this year?” “Well on account of last years little disaster i reckon I shouldn’t. I didn’t really sell much like I thought I would but it means a lot to Twilight so yeah I’ll be going. What about you?” “I had made a promise to a very special pony that I would be attending.” Applejack smiled and nodded. “I understand. Well I should let you get back before it gets too dark.” Tom nodded. “Yeah I have to talk to Rarity about the outfit she made for me. I have just one thing I would like to change.” Waving goodbye, Tom departed and headed for Rarity’s shop. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rarity was working in the back when the bell rang as the door was opened. “Coming, Oh Star how are you?” “I’m good Rarity thank you. I had come by to ask you a favor.” “Oh, what kind of favor darling?” Tom walked over to the suit and looked upon the vest. He turned the suit around. “Might I make the suggestion of placing my old cutie mark on the back here?” Rarity walked over to the vest and seen the back was a bit bare so placing his cutie mark upon the back would have added to the effect. “Hmm you know that would add to the luster but frankly I don’t know what your cutie mark was.” “Oh that’s easy.” Tom took a piece of paper and a crayon and drew the cutie mark out before showing it to her. “Like this. It dose not have to be any type of color, white will be just fine.” “Hmm well it is rather late. I’ll do it first thing in the morning this way it will be ready in time for the Gala. I am just finishing up fixing Twilight’s dress and won’t have time today to start on yours.” Tom shook his head and smiled. “That’s quite alright Rarity, I know you are good to your word. I can’t wait to see it, and thanks again.” As Tom left Rarity’s shop, he was shortly tackled by a grey pegasus mare with a blone mane and tail. Her eyes were both looking dead at him with worry. It was only by seeing her cutie mark that he knew who she was. “Oh goddness I’m so sorry. I didn’t see you there, are you ok? You’re not hurt are you?” Tom took one glance at the mare before he groaned. “I’m ok Ditsy, you’re not the first pony to throw me to the ground and I don’t think you’re the last.” “Hey wait, I know you. You’re that... that. Oh come on what was it that Lyra said.” “Human?” “That’s it, a human. I heard Lyra going on and on about you since she seen you a few days ago. Wait how do you know my name?” Tom rubbed his head and sat up before getting to his feet. “It’s a long story and it’s too late to start now.” “Oh I understand but I do hope you will tell me when you are ready.” Tom nodded. “I will don’t you worry. Oh and Tell Lyra not to spread any rumors about humans ok there are some things that even she dose not know.” “Ok I’ll make sure to tell her that. Hey wait I didn’t even get your name.” “It’s Tom but you can call me Star.” “I’ll remember that. Again sorry for running into you.” After that the pegasus flew off into the last few rays of sunlight before it disappeared over the horizon. Tom did not know what lay beyond those mountains, nor did he wish too at this point. He was happy where he was but soon that would all change. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was nightfall when he arrived back at Twilight’s home and seen the unicorn still reading. “Sheesh Twilight don’t you ever get tired of reading? I mean there is more to life then what’s within those pages.” “I’ll have you know that I am actually reading about you. I asked the princess if she could send me some books that spoke about your exploits during your life. I can’t say if they are true or not and since you don’t remember everything, there is no certainty. Still the way they talk about you, you must have done some amazing things.” “I only remember some thing Twilight, not a lot. I think it would be better as Celestia said, that i regain my memory at my pace rather then read about my life through second hoof accounts. It’s the only way I can see it happening.” Twilight nodded. “That makes sense since you did live through it, it would only be right that you remember your way. Still when you do fully remember everything I hope you make a book of it, I would be your first fan.” Tom chuckled. “Anyway, you’re going to the Gala tomorrow evening right?” “Of course I am, why do you need to ask? “Just curious. If I recall you didn’t take anypony to the last one.” “Wait how did... oh right. Well no I didn’t, none of us did. Rarity met Prince Blueblood at the Gala and he really didn’t turn out to be what she thought. Honestly it didn’t turn out to be how any of us thought.” Tom shook his head at the mention of Blueblood. “I know all to well that colt’s arrogance believe me Twi. He did not react well to seeing me but with a bit of shall we say, persuasion, I was able to hopefully start him down the path to redeeming himself.” Tom yawned softly and stretched himself. “Well I guess I should hit the hay. Tomorrow is going to be a long day and night. You should be getting some sleep too miss Sparkle.” Twilight waved a dismissive hoof. “I will don’t worry. Besides your night might very well be more exhausting then mine.” Tom chuckled before heading up to bed. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The stars twinkled in the night sky and the light from the moon shown through the bedroom window. The dark blue Alicorn lay asleep in a bed he shared with a white Alicorn female. A soft knock came to the door which roused the stallion from his sleep. He lifts his head up and looked to the door. “Enter.” The door slowly opened and in stepped a young Alicorn filly. She was the purest of white, and her mane glinted with that of silver. To the untrained eye, she was completely white save her her deep purple eyes. The tiny filly walked over to the bed, a teddy bear clutched under her wing. “Silver Snow, what are you doing up at this hour?” The little filly fidgited nervously. “I-I’m sorry to wake you but I-I had a bad dream. Can, can I sleep with you tonight?” The stallion looked to his sleeping mare and slowly scooted a little away from her. “Alright squirt come on up just don’t wake your mother.” The little filly smiled and climbed up onto the bed and nestled herself between her parents. “Thank you papa.” She smiled and held her bear tightly in her forelegs. The stallion chuckled and placed a kiss upon his daughter’s cheek. “Did your mother tell you that you may have a new brother or sister soon?” The filly nodded her head. “She said that I will have to be the big sister and look after them.” “That you will, just how your mother looks after her sister.” The filly turned her head to look at her father over her shoulder. “Papa how did you and mama meet?” “I never told you that story?” The filly shook her head. “I’ll tell you in the morning. It is rather late Silver and little fillies need their rest.” “Please papa, I promise I’ll go to sleep after you tell me.” The dark blue stallion looked into the eyes of his daughter and smiled. It was the same eyes of her mother, those eyes always made him melt. “Very well but we must be quiet, your mother is very tired and needs her sleep.” The stallion took a deep breath. “It all started a very very long time ago...” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The sun rose slowly into the sky before beaming down its golden light upon Tom’s face, making him stir. He yawned and at up slowly. “That was no memory.... a vision of the future maybe?” Shrugging it off for the moment, the human stretched and groaned. It was the morning of the Gala. and he had to get a few things done before getting ready. Moving out of bed, he through a pair of pants and a shirt on before gathering up the dirty clothes he had worn for that week. He was thankful that Rarity was such a generous mare. He didn’t really have much in the way of currency to pay for anything and what with all that’s been happening to him, he had not been able to look for work either. He placed the clothes within a basket and used a couple of carrying straps AppleJack had given him. He attached the straps to the basket and slung the basket over his back. He then walked over and kissed Twilight’s cheek before leaving to the laundromat. It didn’t take him long and as he arrived he noticed Rarity and Fluttershy there. “Oh good morning girls. I didn’t know you two were up this early.” “Well good morning to you darling, come to get those clothes of yours cleaned I see.” Tom nodded. “How are you Fluttershy?” Tom never really spoke to Fluttershy like he did with the other girls. Most of the time she would run and hide from him or just never answer if he spoke to her but lately she seemed to be warming up to him. “I-I’m doing ok. How are you doing, i-if you dont mind me asking.” Tom shook his head. “Still as timid as ever. I am doing well Fluttershy, just getting some things ready for tonight. Oh that reminds me Rarity, were you able to place that symbol?” “Indeed I had Darling. In fact I was able to finish it not too long ago. Thats why I’m here. I had figured I would wash both yours and my attire for this evening. This way I would have more time to spruce myself up before the Gala.” “Hmm makes sense.” The three friends talked as their their clothing dried and continued even after they were folded and pressed. Tom enjoyed his time with those he held close. Though there were times he had missed his earthly home but those times were becoming few and far between now. Tom happily walked back to Twilight’s home with his basket of clean clothes, plus one Gala outfit. As he entered the library he seen spike running around at a frantic pace. “Spike what’s going on?” “Hmm? Oh Twilight and her friends are going to the spa later today to get fixed up for the Gala. I still don’t know why they want to go this year after what happened the last but whatever. Anyway, she asked if I could finish these errands and some chores around here early so she wouldn’t have to worry about them later.” Tom had set the basket down on the side of the stairs. “I can deal with the errands Spike.” “You will oh that would be great. Here’s the list of what Twilight wanted me to pick up.” Tom took the list and looking it over it unraveled to show that it was a bit longer then he thought. “Holy hell. All this?” “Yeah she tends to wait till the last moment to get everything.” “Why am I not surprised.Well I said I would do it so I’ll see you in a little bit.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was nearing the late afternoon when Tom return. “Stars above are these lists always like this?” He had entered into the library, bags upon bags floating behind him. He set them all down bupon the floor and placed the rolled up parchment on the table. “Oh Star, you’re back. Spike told me you took over the errands I set for him. You didn’t have to do that but thank you all the same.” Tom waved her words off. “It was nothing Twi, just what friends do, anyway I should be getting ready for the Gala so if anypony needs me I’ll be busy.” “Oh that’s ok, Me and the rest of the girls are all ready anyway, just need to get dressed. Tom nodded and headed upstairs. “Looking good Spike, looking real good.” The tiny dragon was looking at himself in the mirror to which made Tom snicker and Spike spin around fast. “How-how long have you been there?” “Long enough but don’t worry, I won’t give away your secret.” He then grabbed his Gala attire which Twilight had brought up for him while he was gone and walked intro the bathroom, closing the door. He cut the water on and began to undress before stepping into the heated shower. The feel of water running over his body soothed his muscles and relaxed him. He had given out a sigh of relief and gave into the feeling. His shower was not long and he had stepped out before the door to the bathroom opened. “Hey Star I thought you might.... Dear sweet Celestia.” “Twilight! Haven’t you ever heard of knocking first?" “I-I’m sorry...I’ll just...yeah." Twilight quickly ran out of the room and closed the door behind her, a deep tinge of red on her cheeks. She paced back and forth before the door before it opened. Tom stepped out wearing black dress slacks, a white button down shirt and a deep blue vest with his cutie mark on the back. He also had on black dress shoes. “Tom I’m really sorry, I didn’t know you had just gotten out.” “It’s alright Twi just, knock next time ok. Anyway how do I look?” He turned around and showed off the back of the vest. “Is the what you asked Rarity to change? What dose it mean?” “Why Twilight, it’s was my cutie mark. All thats left is this.” Tom used his magic and tied his sword to his left hip. “One other thing Twi, the sword I had when I first got here, you can have it. Call it a gift for putting up with me since I arrived.” “Oh that’s ok. To be honest you become a close friend to me Star.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was the early evening and the carriage carting the six mares slowly pulled up to the entrance to the castle. Tom and Spike hopped off, walking around to the side door and opened it. “Welcome to Canterlot ladies.” The six mare stepped out from their ride, dressed in the finest attire Tom had ever seen, well on a pony anyway. He and Spike helped each one of them from the carriage and escorted them to the castle. Gasps and awes from all the upper class unicorns sounded around them. “Isn’t that the princesses champion?” “Is that his cutie mark on the back there?” “Honestly those are the same six who ruined last year’s Gala. How can he even be seen with them.” “Shh they might hear you.” This continued on till they were inside the castle and made their way to the grand staircase. The guards they passed along the way saluted Tom as they walked. “Did I miss something? It seems like every pony in Canterlot knows you.” “Yeah what’s the deal with that anyway? I thought you wanted to keep it quiet.” Tom chuckled. “Well there is a funny story behind that and it would be too a bit too personal to talk about right now.” “Well anyway darling you look smashing. I am sure this special somepony you have will love how you look.” The girls didn’t know that he and the princess were an item. Twilight had told them that they were once close friends, or so she told them. When the six entered the grand staircase, there at the top of the first landing was Celestia and Luna. Both were dressed in fine gowns. Upon their wings sat two strings of pearls. Tom was just awestruck at what he saw. Truly the love of his life was a goddess. Each of the girls walked up and dipped their heads to the sisters and was greeted with a warm smile from both. As Tom approached he could see the white Alicorn’s cheek slowly turn red. “As lovely as ever my dear.” Tom took Celestia’s hoof and placed a gentle kiss upon it, then doing the same to Luna. “Always a pleasure to see you little one.” This made Luna blush, it was a name he had not used in a long time. “Luna would you mind finishing greeting our guests?” “Of course not dear sister, go and enjoy thyself.” With a smile and nod, Celestia and Tom walked back down the steps and into the corridor to the main ball room. Twilight and the others were still in a bit of shock and whispered about themselves softly. “Is the princess the special somepony he was talking about?” “I’m sorry girls, Star made me swear not to tell any pony.” “That’s alright darling. We understand if they wanted to keep their relationship a secret.” The seven of them soon walked through the doors and each of them going their seperate ways, Leaving Tom and Celestia alone with nothing but onlookers staring at them. “Well princess it seems we are the center of attention once more.” “Indeed we are but that is to be expected. It’s not everyday I am seen around the arm of a stallion and I would imagine that would make those trying to court me a bit jealous.” Tom smirked. “Let them be. I would not rather be with any other then you Tia.” “Nor I my dark knight.” The couple made their rounds, talking to those of high standing and even those of not so high standing. The night was going rather smoothly and after Luna had joined them, it was like Lunar had never left. But like all good things, there was one who just had to ruin it for the rest. A crash of a metal tray and shattering of glass echoed in the ball room and every pony stopped. “Watch where you are going peasant.” A unicorn stallion was standing over a familiar looking earth pony. “Autumn.” Tom rushed to her side and noticed a gash on her hoof. “Somepony get her to the medical wing now.” “Oh and who are you, her knight in shinning armor? Don’t bother saying it I know who you are. You stole her from me, the mare I loved. Usurper, how dare you think you can just show up and take her away from me.” Tom slowly rose as the guards came a carried Autumn away. “First off I don’t know who you are, let alone care what you think of me.” “You’re nothing but a filthy beast.” The stallion used his magic and drew a rapier, pointing the tip at Tom’s neck. “I will end you and win back her heart. A heart you have no right to you swine.” The stallion began to thrust and sing his sword, all the while, Tom ducked and weaved each swing. This continued on for a few moments as even Celestia and Luna watched. Soon Tom had enough and ducked a thrust and gave a firm punch to the unicorn’s sternum, making him step back, dropping his sword and gasping for air. The guards were ready to swarm in and take the stallion but Tom stopped them. “You dare attack unprovoked and accuse me of stealing somepony from you? By your words I don’t need to know of whom you speak. But know one thing my friend, she and I have shared a special bond long before you were ever born. I would and have given my life to keep her safe. Can you make such a claim?” The stallion said nothing. “I didn’t think so.” Tom then picked up the stallion’s weapon and handed to him. “I will have the guards escort you from the castle. Should you resist then they are obligated to toss you into the dungeon and I don’t think you want that now do you?” Again the stallion said nothing as he was soon surrounded and escorted from the room. Tom looked around to everypony who was watching. “I am sorry for the disturbance everypony. Please do not let one pony’s mood spoil the evening.” Soon a faint clopping echoed, then another and another till the entire room was clopping and cheering. Both Celestia and Luna walked up to Tom and nuzzled his sides. “You did wonderfully.” “Indeed, thou preformed brilliantly dear brother.” The music then began to play and everything returned to normal as if nothing had happened. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The night carried on without incident. Tom walked up to the band and whispers into the ear of a grey mare playing the cello. She nodded and looked to the rest of the band as they nodded and started to play a slow song. Tom walked up to Celestia who was conversing with a unicorn Stallion, Fancy Pants if he remembered right. “I’m sorry to interrupt but might it be too much if the young lady join me for a dance?” The stallion smiled and bowed out as Celestia followed Tom out to the center of the dance floor. He took both her hooves and placed on on his shoulder while holding the other then placed his free hand on her side. The two then started to dance to the music, the crowd parting to give them room. “You did well earlier Lunar.” “I only did what anypony else would have done were they in my place.” “But nopony else is, so the statement stands.” She smiled and rested her head upon his shoulder, wrapping her hooves about him. “Lunar everything has gone so well. Ever since the Gala first started it was always so dull. Twilight’s friends helped liven things up last year.” “Yes I know this remember?” Celestia giggled. “Do you think that your earthly family would approve if they knew?” “Of us? Not likely, besides I could care less. All that matters to me is you, Luna, Twilight and her friends. You are all the family I need.” The lovers danced all through the song and into the next, letting time just slip by them as they relished in the warmth of their bodies. “Lunar I have a confession to make. I started my heat cycle yesterday.” Tom blinked and looked to the princess. “Luna said it would not be for another week and a half.” “I believe she did not wish to put you off by the risk of me becoming pregnant.” “Could that even be possible? I mean could we?” Celestia looked into his eyes. “I believe it could. Your magic might just alter your genetic makeup and make it compatible to ours.” “Can it really be that easy? Celestia, are you certain of this? Is having a foal really what you want?” “With you my stallion, yes.” It was then Tom was brought back to the dream he had. Could it really have been a vision of things to come? Whether or not it was true mattered little. All he cared of was to make the mare happy. “If it makes you happy my love then I see no reason why we can not start a family of our own.” Celestia then leaned in close and pressed her lips against those of her lover. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Gala lasted long into the night and most of the guest have left. “It was a wonderful night princess, thank you for inviting us.” “It was my pleasure my faithful student. I hoped you and your friends enjoyed yourself.” Twilight and her friends nodded to her before waving their good byes and departing. “Well we too should make our rounds. Take care dear sister we shall see thee come the morrow.” Luna then trotted out of the ball room, leaving the two lovers alone with the servants who were cleaning up. Autumn had returned with a bandage around her leg. The gash was nothing serious but it still needed to be taken care of. “Well my dear... shall we retire?” Celestia walked past him and ran her tail under his chin with a grin upon her face before she took off running. Tom chuckled and took off after her. “Come on silly boy you have to catch me.” The mare giggled as she ran through the halls, her human lover in hot pursuit. Celestia continued to gallop away and then darted into her room. Tom came in behind her only to find her laying upon her bed with that ‘come hither’ stare. Tom smirked and walked slowly over to her before climbing upon the bed, drawing close to her. Their faces inches from one another. “What would my princess desire?” Celestia looked longingly into his eyes. “To start a family with the stallion I love.” Tom the pressed his lips to his and kissed her deeply, his tongue parting her lips and slipping inside her muzzle. His hands roaming her body and unhook her dress, dropping it to the side of the bed.He slid his hands over her wings and removed the string of pearls placing then upon the night stand. Tom could feel the heat radiating from between her legs even through his clothes. Her smell was weak during the whole of the Gala but now... now it more potent. Celestia broke the kiss and stared into his eyes. “Lunar I have a fire that only you can put out.” Tom smiled. “I will do my best your highness.” “I don’t want your best my stallion, I want you.” Tom removed his vest and unbuttoned his shirt tossing them to the foot of the bed. Rarity would throttle him if she knew what he did. Looking down to the mare that was now on her back he grinned and moved down her form. his fingers trailing her body till they parted her hind legs. Again he looked to her and seen that eyes never left him. He leaned in closely and blew his breath against her swollen slit which made the mare shudder and squirm. Taking his thumbs he pulled apart her lips and the scent she gave off hit him like a wall. It left him dizzy fora moment before he dove in and started to lick at her moist inner walls. “Oh sun’s light.” She squirmed and shook from the tongue lashing she was getting. Tom just smirked and continued to feast upon the bounty that was before him. Her scent was driving him insane, he was not sure if it effected other stallions the same way or just him. It didn’t really matter thought. All that he was concerned with was the mare he was making moan. His tongue bath did not last long as Celestia let out a moan and shook, her orgasm hitting her hard. She panted and looked to her lover with half lid eyes. Tom then stripped himself completely of his clothes and climbed off the bed, using his magic he took the princess off the bed and placed her against a wall. He walked up behind her and gripped her flank in his hands, giving them a squeeze. Celestia looked back over her shoulder to her lover, her front hooves against the wall. “Please Lunar.” Tom took his cock in hand and rubbed it up and down her outer lips making her shudder. Without a second delay he thrusts his full length into her to the hilt making the mare moan in pleasure. He would slowly withdraw only to force himself back into the hilt. “Yes, Yes. Lunar oh.” Tom continued in this way, moving back then thrusting in hard, each time the mare shuddered. Tom then held her with his on hand on her belly and the other holding her tail up and out of the way so that he was able to get a better angle. He would soon turn the princess’s head to look at him and kiss her deeply as he pounded her heated cunt with deep long strokes. Thoughts ran through his mind, mostly about the dream he had, if it were true then how was it that he was an Alicorn? What events would lead up to such an occurrence? The mare’s continued moaning broke his thought pattern and brought him back the situation at hoof. “Oh Lunar I can feel it.” So could Tom. This was it, no turning back. If Celestia was right and his magic somehow altered his genes to match those of the stallion he once was then a foal would be on the way, if not well then there was always the fun of trying again. Tom continued his hard thrusts till finally he could hold back no more and shot streams of his cum deep into the mare’s body which kick started her own climax. The two shuddered and shook as their orgasm slowly gave way. Tom slowly pulled from Celestia, which made her shake as she slid down the wall and stood. Their combined juices leaking from her well plowed sex. He guided the princess to the bed where they both promptly fell into it in each other’s embrace. “Oh Lunar. I do not know how you came to be here again in my life and nor do I care. I have loved you ever since that day as children so long ago and I will never stop.” Tom placed a gentle hand to her cheek as he seen her drifting off to sleep, the fire within her, put out. “Tia can I ask you something?” “Of course..” Her voice indicating she was still slightly awake. “Will you marry me?” Tom heard nothing for a moment before she spoke. “Yes I will.” “Don’t forget.” “Never.” The two lover, exhausted from the long evening and their passionate love making, soon drifted off to sleep but not before Tom covered them up. > A Letter Home > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom slowly opened his eyes to see the face of his now betrothed. A smile came to his lips as he placed a hand gently on her cheek. Her multi-colored mane waved in the ethereal winds over their faces, obscuring them.. “Good morning my prince.” This had the human chuckle. “I’m no prince. I’m not even a noble.” Celestia placed a hoof to his lips. “As I recall you once said that being noble is not something you are born into. It is a statement of character.” “Aye I said that.” “Then your actions last night and the day before with the Panthers proved that.” Tom was a bit shocked that she found out about it but figured Twilight must have spoken to Zecora and sent her a letter. “Twilight is faster then I thought.” “Perhaps, either that or you are slipping in your old age.” “Hey there missy, you are not much older then me. So if I’m old then you’re ancient.” The two lovers kissed one another before Tom sat up. “Come on, I have to get dressed and you have duties to take care of.” “Alas you are right but about last night, shall we... inform the others?” “As long as it stays with the group. My apparent return and change of form might have gone smoother then we thought but if word got out that we were engaged, it might make the papers. Then next thing you know You will have ponies coming from out of the wood work vying for your affections.” “It wouldn’t matter, they are not you and so could never take your place.” Tom smiled. “You are just too much did any pony tell you that.” Celestia tapped her chin with her hoof. “Hmm once or twice.” “Oh really?” Without warning, Tom flipped the princess so that she was under him and he began to tickle her which made her giggle and squirm under him. “Ah no. S-stop I can’t.. I can’t take it haha.” Once he had stopped, the two looked into each others eyes before the princess pulled the human’s head down and kissed him. The kiss seemed to last forever but was only a few moments. “We really should get going before the others worry.” Tom nodded and allowed the princess to her hooves as he got dressed. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Ah good morrow sister. Good morrow Lunar.” Tom smiled and nodded to the little Alicorn. “Good morning everyone. Celestia and I have something to say.” The three ponies looked at the couple for a moment before the mare spoke. “Lunar asked if I would marry him last night and I accepted.” Both Cadence and Blueblood’s jaws dropped. “Well it is about time thy asked thy sister. We were afraid she would never be quiet about it. ‘Oh Luna do you think he will ask me?’ or ‘Luna I just know he will propose soon.” Luna folded her hooves. “I did not!” Cadence could not help but smile and giggle as the two rulers bickered back and forth like fillies. Tom cleared his throat. “Anyway. I saw no reason not to ask. I may not remember everything but what I do recall is very vivid. I love Celestia and there is nothing I would not do for her.” The two lovers each take their seats as the maid bring them their drinks. “So what do I call you, my uncle?” Tom shook his head. “Tia and I are not married, not yet. We plan to hold off a few months, perhaps have the wedding during the Hearth’s Warming Eve festival.” “We think that is a grand idea dear Lunar.” “I agree with Luna.” Blueblood however said nothing at first, surprised? “Well we see that auntie is happy with you so nothing we say will matter. I believe your idea is a good one Lord Lunar.” “Well thank you all for your thoughts. Thought Tia and I would like it if this information stayed within our group till such a time as we believe it should be told.” The three nod their heads. “We understand quite well what thou means. If word got out then thy sister’s image would be ruined.” So with the idea set into motion, each pony went about their business. Celestia was taking care of her duties as ruler, Luna had retired for the day, Blueblood went to do whatever it was he was doing and both Tom and Cadence walked from the castle. “Thanks for agreeing to take me home.” “It’s no trouble princess. I swore long ago to protect the royalty of Equestria, that includes yourself. Besides, I am sure your husband would have done so if he were able. Captain of the Guard is a big duty to handle.” “Maybe, but you are Equestria’s only knight. That must count for something?” Tom chuckled. “Before the events that caused my untimely demise, when I was younger I thought it to be the greatest honor in all the world. Being a knight of Equestria, the highest honor one could receive, doing my duty to protect and uphold truth and justice. Do not get me wrong, being Equestria’s knight is still a huge honor. But I do not see it as I did all those years ago." “What do you mean?” “I fought for the good of Equestria. To preserve Harmony, love and friendship. But at the same time I was ending lives at the tip of my blade and there is nothing noble about that.” “I see. War has a way of changing a pony’s look on how things really are.” Tom nodded as they reach Cadence and Shinning Armor’s home. “Well I thank you noble sir for taking time to walk me home. I pray that the light smiles upon you.” Cadence then walked inside and closed the door behind her. Tom was dressed in royal regalia as he walked through the streets of Canterlot. Celestia must have taken it upon herself to asked Rarity if she would make an outfit for him. It surprised the mare at first that the princess would ask such a thing for her knight but she told her that in his current state he had no formal attire. All this was done however long before the Gala. “Hey give it back, that’s mine” “Well it’s ours now, so you better leave if you know whats good for you.” “Yeah you earth ponies don’t belong here in Canterlot.” Tom’s sharp ears picked up on the conversation that was going on just across the street and looked over. Two unicorn colts were picking on a young earth pony filly. It seems as though they had taken that bear that was floating in the air from her. Seeing this as something to put a stop to he walked over. “Excuse me.” “Huh who are you?” The other colt shook as he looked to the human. “S-Sir L-Lunar.” “I take it that bear belongs to the young filly. I pray you do the right thing and return it.” “Why? She’s just a filthy Earth pony anyway.” “Need I remind you young colt who grows the food you eat everyday. Were it not for them then you would starve. Now give back the bear and I want both of you to apologize.” The bear drift back into the little filly’s hooves and the two colts look to the ground. “Sorry we took your bear.” “Yeah sorry.” The filly nodded, accepting their apology. “Good now run along.” The two unicorn colts did just that as Tom knelt down in front of the little filly. “Thank you lord Lunar.” Tom chuckled. “Please little one just call me Star. Might I have the pleasure to know your name?” The filly shied away a little before she spoke. “Star Sapphire.” “Star Sapphire, there you are.” A light blue mare had run up from one of the adjacent streets, passing Tom to the filly standing before him. “I have been galloping all over looking for you. What did I tell you about running off like that. Please forgive my daughter she... My goodness Sir Lunar I-I didn’t know it was you.” “It’s quite alright ma’am I just seen this little filly lost and thought I might help.” “Well thank you ever so much for taking care of my little sapphire. Come along Star, say good bye.” “Good bye mister Star.” She said as she waved to him. “Protecting the princesses and little fillies? I must say Lunar you sure know how to take care of the ladies.” Tom looked over his shoulder and standing behind him was Shinning Armor. He then chuckled softly before looking up the sky. “Well when you have experienced as much as I have you tend to know what works.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “What news do you have to give commander?” “My lord my squads have already taken control of the northern towns of Trottingham and Dappleshore. We will soon be making our way south to Canterbury and New Saddle. From there it will be west to Stalliongrad. Once we have control of their eastern flank, Canterlot will be that much closer.” “Excellent and you say that they have no idea yet?” The gryphon shook his head. “If they did, they would have stopped us at Trottingham lord.” “Good all is being put into motion. Soon once I have the stone, we shall capture Princess Celestia and strip her of her magic. Then Equestria will be mine.” “But my lord how do you plan to take her? With how powerful she is you know she will not go without a fight.” The gryphon king chuckled deep in his throat. “Do not concern yourself with her. I have a few of my best to deal with her. You just worry about the job I have set before you.” The gryphon bowed and left the throne room. “So, do you still believe in what you are doing sire?” “I must admit when Grain and Gallen told me that they both felt Lunar’s power I was a bit hesitant. I had read stories from long ago about the princesses and their champion. Creatures with the power to control the heavens. Any fool would be scared off by now, but I am no fool. With this..” He held up the ring. “It gives me an edge to strike back at them and take what I want. No longer will we have to cower before their magic. With this ring I can take that magic and use it against them.” “But were you to get ahold of the Princess’s power lord, that still leaves two to deal with.” “Must I explain everything? With the capture of Celestia, Both her sister and their champion will be thrown into a panic and start looking for her. Canterlot will be left unprotected with those two gone. Once the city is ours, the rest of the kingdom will follow.” “A good plan sire.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “So you don’t have any family?” “Not in Equestria no. Well no that is incorrect. Both Celestia and Luna are my family but not by blood. The two that raised me from what I can remember died when I was very young. Even then they were not my real parents. It’s funny cause I envy those that do.” Shinning tilted his head after taking a gulp from his mug. The two became fast friends since their professions were nearly the same things all that was different was their titles. “Envy? I don’t get it.” “Think about it Shinning. You and Twilight know who your real parents are. So do Celestia and Luna. Hay even Cadence knows of her real parents I am sure.” “Lunar even if they were not your parents by blood dose not mean that they were no parents to you.” Tom nodded. “No I understand that they loved me like their own son but I would still like to know. I had always known I was different. It was only by meeting Celestia and her family that I knew I was not the only one who looked the way I do.” “I don’t know what it must have been like back during those times but at least you had your friends.” Tom took a drink from his mug and groaned. “Gods that’s good stuff and yes I did. After those that raised me were killed, Celestia’s mother and father took me in and treated me like I was one as their own.” “Now see that’s good to hear about.” Tom nodded again. “Indeed but as I said there is still a part of me who wished I knew who my real mother and father were.” “I can understand that knowing where you really come from can eat at a pony.” “There you are, I had wondered what happened to you when you did not come home like you normally do.” Cadence had trotted up to the two and had a very serious face on her. “I’m sorry dear, I had seen Lunar out on the street and thought we might get a few mugs together.” “Well alright as long as I know where you are. You know I worry about you.” Shinning smiled to his wife. “You are right. I’m sorry.” Tom chuckled crossing his arms and leaning back slightly on the hay pile. “Now isn’t that sweet.” “Oh and like you can say anything different.” Cadence flashed the human a smile. “Guilty. What can I say, you ladies have a way with us.” Tom offered her a seat between the two. “You can join us if you like.” Cadence tapped her hoof to her chin before she spoke. “Well I’m not one for alcohol but wine shouldn’t hurt.” So the pink Alicorn smiled and trotted around the two of them before taking her seat. “So what were you two talking about?” “My past and my earthly life.” Tom said before taking another drink. It was a good thing Shinning was off duty otherwise the human would have been drinking alone. “Oh that’s right, you never spoke of them, just what were you earthly parents like?” “Well they weren’t ponies. My folks, well what could be said. I worked with my father, my mother she was always home after she got hurt. My sister... well like all little sisters on earth she was a pain. We stayed with my grandparents so the house was always a cluster of bodies but we made due.” “Do you think they miss you?” Tom took a deep breath. “I am sure that they do but other times well I was not so sure. We would arguing most time, mostly over petty things. Still that is not to say that we were always like that, there were good times but those were so few and far between that they are just like fleeting memories.” “Well why don’t you write to them?” “How Cadence? Celestia has no idea how I got here. How would she know where to send my letter if she has only an idea of where I came from?” A waiter returned with a glass of red wine and placed it before the pink Alicorn. “Still its worth a try.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was the early evening when Tom, Cadence and Shinning Armor parted ways. The two ponies returned to their home while Tom walked back to the castle. He was stopped only once by one of Luna’s night guards but upon inspecting his person, the stallion saluted the human and went on his way. As he walked through the halls of the palace a voice called from behind him. “Lord Lunar.” Tom turned to see Autumn trotting up to him. “Autumn, what are you still doing up at this hour? If I recall your shift is over.” The earth pony nodded. “I had just seen you walking the halls and wanted to know if you needed anything before I retire for the evening.” Tom chuckled and shook his head. “Just like your ancestor, always looking out for my well being. No Autumn Breeze I am quite well but thank you for asking. Go and rest now, I shall see thee come the morrow.” With a dip of her head she trotted off. It did not take him long till he reached Celestia’s bed chambers and knocked on the door. “Enter.” Tom then opened the door and closed it behind himself as he stepped in. “Oh Lunar I had thought you returned to Ponyville.” Tom shook his head. “Tia I have a favor to ask. I would like you to send a letter to my earthly family. I know it might sound stupid after what I said at the Gala.” Celestia shook her head. “No Lunar, it’s not stupid. I am sure that they are worried to death about you. I will need to see your memories of your world to get an idea of where to send it.” Tom nodded as the Alicorn stepped closer and laid her horn upon his head. Her horn glowed as she scanned his thoughts till she was sure she knew where the letter was to go. “Now all you need do is write it.” Tom grabbed a quill, an inkwell and a piece of scroll and started to write. It was a little over twenty minutes before he rolled the scroll up and secured it with a red ribbon and Celestia’s insignia. The princess then took the scroll from him and in a flash of light, the scroll was gone. “I thank you dear heart.” “There is no thanks needed my love, if it helps you I would gladly do whatever I can.” She then nuzzled his cheek before the two of them remained awake for a time and then returned to the welcoming embrace of sleep. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- To my family Hey guys I know you are probably freaked out when you found out I was not in my room but I want you guys to know I am fine. I know telling you not to look for me sounds like I don’t want to be found but its true. Where I am is someplace that no one has ever been to before or even get to. Odd how I was brought here but... They need me here. I know dad that you need me as well but I was always getting in your way or pissing you off at some point. Mom, I am sorry that I acted the way I did to you. It was not right of me to be that way and I apologize. Sis, well what could be said, at least you don’t have to worry about me pissing your mother off or your dad so maybe things can be better for you. Sorry if I was not the best brother you had but that’s no excuse. I can not truly say where I am because I know for a fact that you would not believe me. Please do not take this to the authorities, I have written this for your eyes only. I just want you all to know that I am doing well and that I have both a place to stay and food in my belly. There is really nothing else I can say but that maybe one day I’ll come to visit and when I do, I will be bringing someone very special with me. I just hope that when that time comes that you will accept her for whom she is and not what she looks like. Well it’s getting late and I should be getting to bed soon. Lots of Love Tom > The War Begins > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “My lord, we found the stone.” The gryphon king’s eye lit up upon hearing those words. “At last all this planning is coming to together. Send in my elites at once.” The gryphon left and within a few moments, a group of three lean gryphons walked in. They bowed to their heads as the king rose from his throne. “What is thy bidding my lord?” “I want your group to infiltrate Equestria, sneak into Cenaterlot Castle and abduct Princess Celestia. I don’t care what you do to have her comply just make sure you get it done.” “As you wish sire.” The three then left and were seen by both Gallen and Grain, the observers that were ordered to watch for Lunar’s as well as the princesses movements. They walked by each other without so much as a word. Both observers had entered the throne room and bowed to their king. “Report.” “It seems your highness that Lunar’s power has been growing at a steady rate. He will be at full power by the end of the week if this continues.” “Hmm well its a good thing my plan is moving into the next stage. I have just sent my best to retrieve the princess for us. Once her powers are ours we will take Equestria and beyond.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was still dark once the group reached the castle. “Horsefeathers Glenda you expect us to carry the princess all the way back to Gryphus?” “That is what Lord Greaves wants and that is what Lord Greaves gets. Unless you want to end up on the block like the last gryphon who crossed him.” “Look lets just get this done and over with.” The three land on the balcony and dropped their voices. “Look she’s still asleep. Who is that beside her? Can we eat him?” “I don’t know but whoever it is he must be something to her.” Glenda then placed a claw over the princess’s muzzle which woke her from her slumber. She was about to use her magic before the gryphon female shook her head and spoke so only she could hear. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you princess, otherwise we don’t know what will happen to your little friend over there.” Celestia looked over and seen a gryphon with a knife just inches from Tom’s neck, she then looked back to her abductors. “Now you be a good little girl and don’t struggle and your lover lives. If you don’t well we can’t say what will happen to him.” Celestia narrowed her eyes with anger but she new that she did not want anything to happen to any of her subjects, Lunar or otherwise so she closed her eyes and nodded. “Good girl. You two tie her up and lets get out of here before the patrol arrives.” The two gryphons, following the orders of their leader, tied the the princess’s front and back legs and then tied her muzzle close they had also tied her wings to her form so that she couldn’t fly away. “Are you two ready yet? There is a patrol coming and I don’t want to be here when they fly by.” “We’re coming, we’re coming. Geez I think the princess needs to lay off the sweets.” The two gryphons along with their leader flew off into the night with the princess in tow. The last thing Celestia sees before her eyes fill with tears is the image of Tom sleeping soundly. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom slowly yawned and opened his eyes thanks to a knock on the door. “Ok ok hold on.” Tom got out of bed and walked to the door and opened it. “Sister thou is late raising the. Oh hello Lunar we were just about to wake Tia. Wait where is sister?” “Huh what do you mean she was right...” Tom’s eye went wide. “Tia?” He looked around the room hoping she was playing some kind of game but when he got to the balcony the only thing that he found was a solitary white feather. Tom kneeled down and picked up the feather as Luna walked up beside him. “She’s gone.” Luna shook head. “No that is not like Tia, she would not leave her subjects or you.” “You think she was taken? But who in their right mind would do such a thing? Celestia is not a bad pony.” “We do not know. But the sun must be raised or else there will be panic.” “Well who could do it?” Luna thought for a moment. “Thou should do so Lunar.” “Me? Whoa, Luna I don’t have the ability to raise the sun you know this. Besides I don’t even know if my magic is at it’s peak or not, I could kill myself.” “Please big brother thou has to try. The last time we did it, it did not end well and Tia forbade us from doing so again.” Tom gulped and drew in a deep breath. Everything within him was screaming to chase after those who took his love from him, to watch them bleed before him. But Luna was right, the sun had to be brought up or the ponies of Equestria would begin to think Luna had something to do with it. Focusing his magic he reached out to the ball of heat and light. Its touch burned him and he recoiled. Again he tried and again it burned. Tom then took a deep breath and calmed himself, once again he reached out to the sun the heat burned him but then it suddenly stopped. Using his magic he moved the sun into its spot in the heavens and before he knew it, Luna had lowered the moon and he moved the sun along. As the sun moved and shone its light upon the land, Tom’s hair grew. It moved its way down the back of his neck and rested a good inch or so past his shoulders. It then went from its normal brown to silver. Luna watch the slight transformation with blinking eyes. “Lunar, your mane. It.. changed.” Tom looked over his shoulder to his longer hair. He had thought he had grown old but as he looked at it more he seen the glint of silver in it. “Luna... we have to get her back.” The smaller Alicorn nods. “We shall dear Lunar. No fury of nature will stop us in that goal. But one of our scouts has reported in and confirmed that a large gryphon regiment is headed this way. We believe that they might have something to do with Tia’s disappearance.” Tom growled in his throat and his now longer hair fluttered to life and flowed around him. “I’ll kill them all.” Luna held up her hoof. “Wait sir Lunar we have a plan that might get us the information we need. If conquest is really their goal and they have taken Tia then they will come for us as well. We will need to strike hard so this is what we shall do.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “You won’t get away with this Greaves. Lunar and Luna will be looking for me.” Greaves laughed deeply. “I’m counting on it. With them gone, Canterlot will be ours for the taking.” He walked over to the princess whom was bound and placed upon the floor in front of his throne. “Once Canterlot is ours, the rest of Equestria will follow.” “Why are you doing this?” “Why? Why?! Because I want it all. All the wars would stop if they were brought under one banner. A unified world needs a strong leader and I just so happen to fit that role.” Celestia shook her head. “You are mistaken if you think you can rule a global empire. The world will never bow to you. Not now, not ever.” “If they won’t bow princess then I will see it burnt to ashes around me. Nothing will stop me at completing my goal, not you, not your sister and especially not your champion.” “You are mad Greaves.” “Perhaps but when the time comes your highness, your power will be mine and there is not a thing you can do to stop me. Oh and one more thing, I would not use your magic your highness those bonds are made just for you.” He laughed as he walked from the throne room, leaving the princess alone with her thoughts. “Luna, Lunar. Where ever you are, please hurry.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The large group of gryphon soldiers land just inside the gates of the Castle. “Scour the place, His majesty wants Princess Luna alive at all costs and if you see Sir Lunar, don’t hesitate to kill but be cautious he might now have his full strength but he is still a force you do not want to take alone. Now go.” It never really occurred to them that the guards were not where they should be. That by all accounts, the castle was empty. “Sir, this dose not seem right. Don’t you think that we should have encountered more resistance than this?” “I notice it too. Be on guard, they maybe planning something.” It did not take the smaller group long before they reached the throne room where Luna sat. “Ah our dear friends from the north, what brings thee her before us?” “We are under orders to capture Canterlot. Your castle is surrounded, surrender your highness and we might let your subjects live.” Luna tapped her hoof upon her chin. “Hmm we think we shall resist thee.” With Luna’s words, several guards including Lunar came from their hiding places. “I told you this was too easy.” “Princess our forces outside will burn everything to the ground if you do not come with us.” “Oh do you mean those forces?” She points out the window as battle was taking place. For each gryphon soldier there were two pony guards, both Celestia’s and Luna’s. Lunar pushed past guards whom had their spears pointed at the gryphons necks and grabbed the neck of the supposed leader. The human’s eye glowed white and his hair again fluttered in an unknown wind as his magic surged throughout his body. “Where is she?” “I..I don’t...know.” Tom was able to pick up the beast with ease. He then tightened his grip the gryphon’s throat. “He’s lying.” A bandaged up gryphon stepped from the shadows. “He know’s exactlly where she is. “Gallen.” The gryphon strained to speak in the human’s grasp before being dropped. He coughed and hacked as air flooded back into his lungs. “How did you survive?” “I trusted you Grain. You were my friend and you left me for dead in those trees.” “Our guards found him and he told us of Greaves plot to conquer Equestria. You king will not win this war he has brought upon us.” A/N : Sorry for the short chapter guys, I been busy lately and wanted to move the story along. I hope you enjoy this chapter like the others because after this, the war begins. > War Diaries I > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Day 1 Luna asked that I write within this book at the behest of Twilight. She said that it would help me stay focused and not flip out like I did when interrogating the gryphon known as Grain. Stars above I can still hear his roars of pain. The sickening sound of his bones breaking makes me sick to my stomach even now. We may have learned that King Greaves has kidnaped Tia to get to Luna and I but still, I turned into a monster. I am sure Celestia would cower from me or at the very worst, leave me. I wouldn’t blame her I mean Lunar may have been whom I was but my instincts are still human and those are the ones I fear. I guess Greaves didn’t count on us finding one of his observers in the northern forests. What was his name? Gallen I believe his it was. We spoke as we left Canterlot with Luna, Twilight and her friends. Before that though Luna had made a declaration of war with the Gryphon Kingdoms. Then word spread throughout all of Equestria to those towns that were not already under gryphon control. Volunteers began to pour in from all over the country. Soon the large army we once had bloomed to twice it size. Where was I? Oh yes, the gryphon. Gallen and I spoke of things that he had been doing. According to him, he and the gryphon Grain, the one I tortured, they were observers. Apparently they unlike other gryphons have the ability to sense magical fields. It was how they knew about my being in Equestria. He was actually surprised that the magic he felt did not come from a pony. I can’t blame him though. Some days even I believe this to be nothing more then a dream and tat when I go to sleep and wake, I’ll be back in my room on my bed, but don’t. I wake to find myself next to the mare that will become my sister one day. The road to Stalliongrad was a long one. We had to pass through the mountains beyond Canterlot.The craggy mountain passes were treacherous, the fear of a rock slide might not have worried the pegasi but to the unicorns and earth ponies a rock side was a very real thing. I had taken this time to get to know the soldiers that fought for and along side us. Two inpaticular stood out from all the rest. A pegasus stallion and unicorn mare. The stallion, Haze, he seems to be well put together both physically and mentally. It turns out that he shows the same intellect as any unicorn. He belonged to Celestia’s daytime guards and as such his coat was pure white and he had blue eyes. He wore the traditional golden armor. He was very knowledgeable about a lot of things such as history, the arts. Turns out he is quite the painter. The unicorn mare, Misty is of a different nature. She belongs to Luna’s night guard. Her demeanor is, I don’t want to say cold but she can be rather distant. Either way she seems to have taken a shine to me. During the course of our trek she would sometimes just come up to me and start up a conversation. Most of the time it would turn into a debate of whether or not the one of us was right. Other times it just ended up with us laughing at ourselves. We had reached the outskirts of Stalliongrad by dusk. It was then time for me to lower that sun for Luna. I still laugh every time I think about it. Me raising and lowering the sun, it’s like a fantasy or a dream but... its not. All the ponies, Twilight included were just dumbstruck. They thought that only Tia could move the sun. The fact that I could do it, solidified that I was indeed who Tia said I was. Because no pony save for an Alicorn could do such a thing. Anyway it’s getting into the early morning hours and I hear Shinning Armor and Haze calling me to the fire. So with what might be my first entry into this “War Diary” I’ll leave you with an old saying. “May goddesses watch over you and guide your path.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom walked over to the fire and sat down beside Shinning. “Writing in the book Princess Luna gave you huh?” Tom nodded. “Yeah, she said it might help to quell my anger. But I mean can you blame me? I am sure if Cadence was taken, you would be just as enraged.” “I can’t say that I wouldn’t be. Cadence is the greatest thing in my life. I would have stayed in Canterlot with her if I could.” Haze places a hoof to his shoulder. “Don’t worry she is safe, she has a whole regiment to guard her and the city.” The pegasus looked at me. “I heard rumors of what you did to that gryphon to get this information.” The fact that someone knew about what he had done nearly made him sick. He did not want anypony, even those close to him to know about his dark deed. “I didn’t honestly want to, he would not talk and we were losing time. He insulted me, insulted whom I was. I was fine with that but the moment he attacked Tia I just snapped. I couldn’t deal with anypony, gryphon or not insulting the mare I love.” “Look don’t worry about that now alright. Tomorrow we strike at Stalliongrad and take back the city from those feathered freaks.” “I agree with Haze. An attack on a city of Equestria is an attack on Canterlot itself.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Day 2 We struck hard, at their fortifications. Unicorns lobed condensed magic over their walls and struck at their towers. Naturally most of them took to the skies and thats where our pegasus forces came in. They slammed into each other, the sound of armor colliding with armor still rings in my ears... wait shit. I got to go, seems those bastards tried to surprise us. Tom put down his journal and grabbed his sword. “Ballista!” That was all that was said as a large ball of fire flew over Tom’s head and exploded beyond there camp. Tom along with a handful of unicorn and earth ponies rush to the failing wall they had blow up earlier that day. “Damn it I thought they retreated?” “It seems a few of them stayed behind to continue the fight.” Tom looked up over the broken wall but could not see beyond the building. “Ah hell.” He looked up and saw a cyan coated pegasus. “Rainbow I need you to fly up over the building and tell me just where they are hitting us from.” “Incoming!” Another ball of fire flew over their heads and struck the camp, sending ponies flying. “Go rainbow I need that information.” “Sir are you sure it was wise to send in an unseasoned soldier?” “Relax lieutenant, Rainbow Dash in the fastest pegasi in Equestria. She will get what we need.” Tom was right because a few moments later she flew down in front of them. “There are only a hoofful of them working a single catapult.” “That would explain the time lapse between shots. Where are they?” “Center of town near the square.” Tom nodded. “Thanks Rainbow.” The pegasus gave a salute and took off. He looked around the side of the wall and quickly ran to home and used the wall for cover. “Sir what are you doing? The Princess asked us to guard the camp.” “How much of the camp will be left lieutenant? Rally up our forces.” Tom continued to move through the town silently but soon heard his name being called. “Lunar!” A dark blue Alicorn dropped down beside him. “Luna what are you doing here? You should be back at camp to keep the troops morale.” “We could not stand by while thou risk thy life. Besides we have placed Twilight Sparkle in charge.” Tom sighed because he knew that he could not change her mind. So accepting her help the two continue into the heart of the city as another flaming ball flies passed them. “I sure hope she puts up some type of barrier.” Tom and Luna make their way through the back alleys and side streets of the city till they are only a few yards from the catapult. Tom peeked around the corner of a building they were hiding behind. “Well how many are there?” “At least five from what I can see, two cranking the catapult, two loading and firing and a spotter.” Tom looked to the night princess. “Think you can cover me from the air?” Luna flared her wings. “Just watch them try and stop us.” She then too into the air and flew above the human. Tom took several rapid breaths before he turned the corner and bolted for the catapult. Luna flew and tackled the gryphon who floated in the air and slammed him into the ground. Tom on the other hoof slit the throat of one of the gryphons on the ground but was soon surrounded by the other three. He looked to each of them, watching their movements closely. Then all at once they attacked. Tom ducked the first two swings, thrusting his sword into one gryphon’s chest then quickly withdrew it and thrusts it behind himself and skewering the other in his stomach. Once he withdraws his sword he turns to face the last whom dropped down before him and begged for his life. Tom held his sword to the gryphon’s neck. “Oh please sire have mercy. I beg you.” Tom grit his teeth the punched the gryphon with all his might, knocking him out.” Tom then looked up to the floating Luna before she landed and trotted up to him. “We have to destroy this.” “Then allow us.” Luna stepped passed Tom and closed her eyes. Her horn glowed an soon the weapon just collapsed. Tom on the other hoof used his magic to carry back the gryphon whom was out cold back to their camp. “Maybe now I can finish my entry.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sorry about that, damn bird-brains don’t know when to quit. Where did I leave off? Oh right, The battle was pretty bad. Once they saw us coming they started to lob arrows at us. Good thing our unicorn squads knew shielding spells or else we would all be pin cushions by now. We fought them for several hours tooth and nail. Lost a lot of good ponies today but even though they died defending their country, they did not die in vain. Truthfully we did not lose as may as we thought we would have. That group of gryphons that attacked Canterlot must have been part of the force that held the city. Because once we broke through their lines, most that were alive scattered and took to the skies. Our pegasi hunted most of them down but those that got away we saw heading north to what we believed was there capital. Gallen told us that there were more towns under gryphon control so come first light we will be heading to them. First will be New Saddle then Canterbury, Dappleshore and Trottingham. From there we head through the Forsaken Forest towards Gryphus and Celestia. Stars guide me for I need thy strength more then ever. I have to save her, I will save her. The gryphon we had taken prisoner just woke up not too long ago and Shinning started questioning him about their defenders of the other towns. I fear that if I got ahold of him that I would kill him. Anyway I should get things set up, Luna will need to talk with me later and I know it will be a long night. So good night my friend. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom walked into Luna’s tent and cracked his head off on the wooden support. “Ugh goddesses that hurts.” “We are sorry Lunar, we know thou is taller then us. But that is not important right now. We wish to discuss our next course of action. It seems that Gallen has told us seems to be true. During the fight we had sent out the Wounderbolts to investigate and see if his claims were true. Indeed they were/” “I had a feeling he was right. You don’t get your ass handed to you and expect to stick around. Gallen has proven to be trust-worthy thus far so I hope no action is needed.” Luna shook her head. “Nay we shall stay our hoof till such a time that we believe he can no longer be trusted.” Tom nodded. “So where too next?” Luna walked over to a large table of eastern Equestria. “There is port in Canterbury that ships supplies from Concordia to the south. New Saddle maybe closer and a costal city also but it would be in our best interests to take back Canterbury first and gain the ability to resupply our forces. If we do no then we are fighting a losing battle and that is something that we do not want.” Tom looked at the map, gritting his teeth ands slams the table, splitting it in half. Two of her guards step forwards with spears drawn. Other ponies look in who were passing by. “That’s not good enough. I say we stop all this pussy-footing around and take the fight right to Greaves doorstep.” His eyes glowed white and his voice sounded doubled as he spoke. Luna put her hoof out to her guards to stop them before anything happened. “We understand thy plight dear Lunar. Tia means much to you. But even though she maybe thy fiance she is still our sister. That will never change, so please restrain thyself. Thou is’t not the only one whom wishes to see Tia again.” Tom’s magical rage then subsides as he sighs deeply. “I am sorry little one. I was right beside her and I had done nothing.” “Thou was asleep.” “That’s no excuse. I should have stayed awake, I should have stopped them from taking her. I was just inches from her.” Luna walked up to the human and stared up to him before pushing him over and staring down to him. “Now thou listen well. We have not been banished for a thousand years and learned nothing from it. We do not blame Tia for her actions and thou should not blame thyself for thou ability to not act. We have known thee since we were just a filly. Thou is a strong stallion Lunar Star whether thou can see it or not.” Tom sighed deeply before Luna stepped back and he sat up. “Now then we are giving thee team of ponies to go on ahead of us and take out the enemies defenses out before we arrive. This will drop the casualty rate and give us a strong hoofhold on the area. We give thee the option of picking your team of six ponies.” Tom had already chosen them. “I want Haze and Misty. Aurora and Starlight. Rainbow Dash and Sky High.” “Hmm three pegasi, two unicorns and an earth pony. Very well. We will make the needed preparations.” > War Diaries II > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Day 6 We have been trekking beyond the reach of New Saddle. I still say that we should have taken the city first but it was not my call. I am only doing what is asked of me. Anyway as we walked, I could hear Aurora talk about her little brother with Misty. The two of them seemed to have hit it off and became close friends. Rainbow and Sky were flying overhead trying to out do one another with their tricks, as long as Rainbow dose not pull off any Sonic Rainbooms we should be good. Haze has been flying on ahead of us to make sure we don’t walk into any enemy patrols. Starlight has been awfully quiet. I guess she must miss her family. I remember the first night we were out here, Starlight told me she had two foals at home back in Ponyville. When I asked her why she joined up she looked at me and told me that she felt she had to to protect her younglings as she put it. She would not talk to any pony else in our group but me. Said something about how I reminded her of her late husband with the way I carried myself. When I asked her about it she would just clam up. I guess I’ll just leave it at that. Haze and Misty seemed to have grown rather close. Most time I don’t see one without the other. Something tells me there is more there. I spoke to Haze about it and he said not to concern myself with it. Said that even though I was an Alicorn that there are some things I was not meant to know. Fair enough, I don’t like to pry but still I am sure that the two are lovers. Aurora reminds me so much of Twilight it’s not funny. Though she has the more refined demeanor of Luna. The thought just made me chuckle, Luna Sparkle. In any case, Aurora is our taction and boy can she come up with a plan. While on the way to Canterbury we saw a gryphon encampment heading for what we could guess was to take back Stalliongrad. But thanks to Aurora, they didn’t have a chance. I know for one Luna likes surprises and she is in for a big one. It should be about daybreak by the time we reach the outskirts of the town. It will be that time when the sun needs to be raised, which still shocks the hell out of me. I mean I had no idea I was capable of such a feat. Tom, Bringer of the Dawn! Tom was walking beside the others and laughed evilly which made all the rest look at him weird. Damn it they know. I have to be even more sneaky. “Hey Lunar, what’cha writing?” Tom jumped when Rainbow talked over his shoulder. “Geez Rainbow don’t do that will you. You want to give me a heart attack?” “Sorry, I didn’t mean to spook you.” The cyan pegasus then landed beside the human and walked with him. “So what’cha writing?” “Luna thought as Twilight did that it would do me good to jot down my thoughts so is to relieve some built up stress. I was not too keen on the idea but it seems to be helping. Plus I keep it as a record of what’s been going on.” He held the book out to her as she read through a passage. “Wow that’s cool but I have a question though. Why did you pick me to be part of the group? You and I haven’t been the close of friends.” Tom and the other walked as he thought on her question. “Well I know the kind of pony that you are. I know you would do anything for your friends. Your fast, brave, perhaps a little cocky and willing to face any danger to protect those you hold dear.” It was then he chuckled. “What’s so funny?” “You remind me a lot of myself. I remember more of my life everyday and when I was younger, I was the same way. I did anything and everything I could to protect my friends. I talked a big game as those from earth say but I had the ability to back it up. We may not have seen eye to eye Rainbow but that’s because we are so similar. Not to mention I have faith in your abilities to get things done.” Rainbow blushed softly and smiled but then shook her head. “Ugh did you have to sound so sappy?” Tom chuckled as the group of friends continued their trek. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Day 7 Well we have been on the outskirts since the late afternoon. We would have been here sooner but we ran into another patrol along the way. These gryphons are nothing if not annoying. You would think that they would have gotten the hint that this is a fight that they can’t win but hey, with each fight I somehow feel myself getting stronger. Its hard to explain but I feel something change within me. Starlight came over to talk to me. As I said yesterday, it seems I am the only one she will talk with. She wanted to know if we will be able to make it through this. In all honesty I can’t give her the answer she wants. I do not know the future so I can’t say for certain. Still it’s good to have somepony to talk to. I still kick myself for allowing Tia to be taken right out from under me. Luna said that I should not stress about it but it dose not help matters. Aurora came to talk to me after Starlight and I concluded our discussion. She wanted to know more about me, since All she knew was in the span of a few days so I smiled and told her to ask away. Boy was that a bad idea. Just like Twilight she started to ramble off questions without giving me time to answer them. I finally couldn’t take anymore and placed a finger to her mouth to stop her. It was then I began to fill in the gaps and she sat there taking it all in like a sponge. After dinner we all got ready for the assault. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Night had finally fallen and peering through a telescope I looked upon the walls guarding the city. “Ok there are a number of guards on the battlements. Four patroling the ground just outside. If we get spotted by any one of them, they will capture us for sure.” Tom turned and looked at their little group. “Ok here is what we will do. Rainbow you, Haze and Sky will take out the ones on the walls. Aurora, you, Misty and I can take care of the ones on the ground. Once they are done Starlight, that’s where you come in. We will need that earth pony strength of yours to break the gate open.” “What about once we are inside? I don’t think that is all that they have.” Starlight look to the human. “No I do not believe so either which is why we have to find the leader. If we can get to the leader we can end this before it even starts.” The ponies look to each other and then back to Tom before nodding. Rainbow was the one to speak up. “Lets do this.” “Remember, leave none alive.” With another nod the ponies took off to there locations and readied for the attack. Tom looked about as as soon as one of the gryphons on the ground appeared, he threw a dagger catching the beast in the face and used his magic to silence him and move him out of the way. Sky High, Haze and Rainbow quickly dispatched the others up on the wall while Tom Aurora and Misty removed the others. Now it was Starlight’s turn. She took off at high speeds before spinning around and slamming her hooves upon the wooden door and broke a hole clear through it. “We have to move. I don’t think that sound would have gone unnoticed.” The seven of them make their way through the streets, ponies opening their doors or windows to see what was going on. Many joined them and before long a small militia was following them. “Is the information right?” Tom looked to one of the resident stallions as he nodded. “Yes. After they took over they turned city hall into their base of operations.” “And what of the supplies from Concordia?” “As far as we have seen they are moored somewhere close by. We are not sure what they plan to do with them but we can’t allow them to take what is not theirs.” Tom thought for a moment. If city hall was their base then it would stand to reason it would be heavily guarded. They would need some time of distraction, something to draw the guards attention so that one of them might slip in unseen. “Rainbow think you can pull off a sonic rainboom?” “Ha can I pull off a sonic rainboom he says. I could do that with my eyes closed.” “Good. The moment she hits that rainboom I want the ten of you to harass the guards. Nothing too over the top, just something to keep their attention. We don’t want them to see anypony getting inside.Once we are in, then scatter.” The stallion and his friends nod as their group sneak down the streets towards city hall. Tom looked to the others in his own group. “This is where we part ways for a while.” “What are you talking about? We came here together and we will finish this together.” The earth pony looked to the human. “I only need Rainbow to make the sonic rainboom. Once she is there I was you six to get to the city gates and wait for the princess’s arrival. It should not be long now, once I take care of their leader I will join you all.” Rainbow shook her head. “No can do boss pony, you chose us now you are stuck with us.” Tom looked to each of them, he knew that no matter what he said they would not let him leave their side. This thought hit him to his very core and a solitary tear ran down his cheek which he quickly wiped off. “Thanks you guys. It means a lot to me.” “I know I don’t say much but...I believe in these past few days we have all grown closer as friends. That is what I believe.” Each of them nodded their heads. “Alright team lets go.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Um hello? This is Starlight, I don’t know if Lord Lunar will be ok with me writing in his book or not but it’s been half an hour since he went into the room with the gryphon leader. I am not sure what went on in there, we all heard bangs, crashes and roars then for the past ten minutes there has been nothing but silence. Oh wait a moment, the door is opening. Oh dear sweet Celestia.... Tom walked out of the room slowly, his clothing in shreds and his body covered in bloody gashes. He staggered from the doorway, dragging his sword in his right hand and the dismembered head of the gryphon leader. Those that they had taken prisoner looked in horror at the head of there leader before Tom tossed it to their feet. He took a staggering step forward before collapsing, but Haze and Misty were both there to catch him before he hit the ground. “Take a good look at your leader.” He spoke in a raspy tone. “That will be what happens to Greaves when I get a hold of him. Mark my words, the last thing he will feel in this life will be the cold bite of my sword as it pierces his heart. Take the head and return to Gryphus. Tell your king that his days are numbered.” Tom coughed and spat blood. Both Misty and Aurora were using their best healing magic to close his wounds. The few gryphons that remained took the head of their fallen leader and took to the skies. As they were a few feet away the entire town cheered in a loud roar. Their town was freed that night, this would surely impress Luna when she and the rest of the army arrive. The group of friends walked through the cheering crowds of ponies as they made their way to the main gates. “My lord you need your rest, there is an inn just up the street. I own it and it would be an honor to house you till you recovered.” A young pegasi mare spoke. Tom looked to the others. “I will stay with him, you all wait for the princess to arrive.” Misty then nudged Haze to the others as she helped the human walk down the street, following the pegasus mare. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Day 10 I had seen that Starlight thought to leave me a message yesterday while I rested. That gryphon took me for all I was worth. A number of times I thought he should have killed me but something seemed to be guiding my actions. At first I thought it only to be my rage and anger, gods know it would not have been the first time something like that happened, but it wasn’t. I can’t really explain it though call it the gods will if you want I don’t care. Well Luna and the rest of the Equestrian army arrived yesterday and she could not believe we had taken back the town so easily. I told her that it was not just our little band that did it but all the ponies living here. They had finally had enough of the feather brains controlling them and once they saw us doing something about it they figured then was the time. Anyway when they found out my name, most thought I was not real. That I was just a myth. It was to be expected, I did perish over a thousand years ago. I am writing this from Luna’s tent. She is sound asleep beside me. Poor thing, I may have lost my greatest love when Tia was taken but she lost a sister, her only family. She still calls me brother from time to time though which I relish in. It had been so long since I heard those words leave her lips. When she was little she would always call me her older brother even though we were not related. I saw her as my little sister so the feelings there were mutual. Tia, gods all I can think of is what that monster might be doing to her. I swear by the powers that flow within me if he so much as harms a feather I will slay him where he stands. I had never felt like I did when I was with her. She seemed to have healed whatever damage was dealt to me over those long years on earth. I just... Tears start to drop from the humans eyes and hit the pages of the book. He took his hand and wiped them away. Regardless of what Luna says, he still feels he could have done something to prevent Celestia from being taken. “Lunar? Is thou alright?” Luna’s sudden voice snapped Tom from his thoughts as he turned his head to her. His eyes were still glistening with what remained of his tears and he quickly wiped his eyes. “Oh Luna, I am sorry. Did I wake you?” Luna shook her head. “Nay, we had simply wanted to see if thou was resting but instead we seen thee in tears.” Tom sat there a moment and then closed the book before setting it beside himself. “I am sorry little sister.” Luna shook her head. “Please Lunar you not be sorry. We understand thy feelings. We will get her back dear brother. Make no mistake on that.” He then leaned against the human to comfort him. He felt her nuzzle into him. This was enough to help calm himself. The human took a deep breath and with the princess of the night watching him he continued his writing. I want nothing more then to hold her within my arms and take her away from all this. Celestia is everything to me and as long she is within the clutches of that gryphon, I will not stop in my goal in getting her back. Greaves will die by my sword and no pony else’s. This vow I will make, as Luna as my witness he will breath his last. > War Diaries III > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Day 36 With the re-taking of Canterbury and New Saddle we have secured a hoof hold on the lower part of Equestria. Now we are working our way up north to Dappleshore. It’s a good four days till we reach the town and during that time I had gotten to know more about those that under Luna’s orders, were now part of of my strike force team. We would be sent in to secure certain areas and allow our troops to enter and capture the town. The more resistance we took out doing it, the less deaths there would be. Starlight seems to have grown attached to me because she was always around me. The two of us became close friends, so much so that rumor spread that I was cheating on Tia but that was totally out of the question. No, the earth pony and I were more like brother and sister then anything. Rainbow Dash seemed to be warming up to me as well. She was still her old self only less so then normal. She would always show off a new trick or stunt that she just came up with. It would not always work and would sometimes end up in her crashing into somepony or something. Still she took everything in stride. We had stopped and made camp before nightfall. As usual I lowered the sun so that Luna could raise her moon. I am getting used to it by now. Once we rescue Tia she will be astounded to see me do that. As I said before, Aurora is like Twilight only in a different body. She is very inquisitive about everything around her. Once she was told I could use magic she started to study up on humans and saw that we could not use any magic whatsoever. So then she started to delve into the thought that I might be a hybrid but I bore no cutie mark nor any features of a pony to start. Would it be funny when she is told that I am nothing of the sort. That I am able to use magic thanks to being here in Equestria, plus my past. Haze and Misty have become what many think, my bodyguards. I can’t blame them. The two of them seem to accompany me everywhere. I don’t know if Luna ordered them to do so or not but I am thankful for the company. They would sometimes ask me questions like what were the princesses like when they were little? How old was I? Uh Alicorn years, not human. Honestly it was more Misty asking me the questions then Haze. After the camp was set up and the sentries were placed on watch I was able to finally get back and talk to those I had not before. Twilight, Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie. Rainbow was with them but I worked with her so we saw each other all the time. No sooner then I approached them then I was tackled by Pinkie Pie. I swear, that pony can move like lightning when she wants to. I was down for nearly ten minutes, being cuddled by all of my friends before Luna thought she would join them. Apparently Rainbow had told them what Luna and I did back in New Saddle. I am telling you there is no pony else I would rather have watching my back then Luna, but that was days ago. All my friends aside from Luna and Rainbow were asking me how I had been and when did I learn the spells I used during the re-taking of the port town. Once I was let back up I began to tell them. The spells themselves were not too difficult but what amazed me is that Twilight, one of the most powerful unicorns I had known of was unable to do them. It was hard to believe but I think these battles were in someway returning the memories of spells I had lost. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Day 38 The road to Dappleshore lead us through open grasslands. It would give our enemy a perfect time to strike or set up defenses for our arrival were they to spot us. Luckily though Luna had taking the measure and sent out a scouting party to make sure that would not happen. When they returned with news that we were clear from being seen, we all breathed a sigh of relief. I would hate to be caught out in the open with these things. Dappleshore was a small farming town which I did not understand, why bother with a town so small. I guess it didn’t matter in the scheme of things. Greaves wanted Equestria for himself and figured we would not fight back, guess he was wrong on that one. News of the loses he had sustained I believe had to have reached his ears long before now. Luna and I, along with everypony else can just imagine the reaction he might well be giving. Still with such a thought came another. What if he hurt Tia in his rage just out of spite? Just the thought makes my blood boil but I know it is just a matter of time before he and I are face to face on the battlefield. He may know what I am and of my past but he knows nothing about what kind of creature I have become over those long years living among humankind. Luna tells me that Stalliongrad was the largest city next to Canterlot. All other were either the size of Ponyville or smaller. This had me thinking, what was his motive? I guess he figured if he could cut off Stalliongrad from its supply routes then it would be easily taken. Then it was just a short trek to Canterlot. A lot good that did him, I figure he was not aware of Luna and I being there. Still it was of little concern, the faster we took back these two towns the faster we were to getting Tia back. Goddesses I miss her warmth and smile. Tia brought me such joy that I thought was lost to my life back on earth. I still kick myself for not waking when she was taken but Luna’s words still ring out in my head. I should not blame myself for things I can not have forseen. Anyway its getting late now and I see Luna waiting for me at her tent. I see the looks I get from some of the stallions as they knew what it meant. Most were looks of jealousy, others of disgust. Probably thinking I am bedding both Tia and Luna and that was never the case. Anyway, I should go before it gets too late. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Tom closed up his book and closed up the inkwell and took his quill with him. He stood up and walked over to the larger tent where he and Luna slept then disappeared within. The two guards whom stood beside either side of the tent looked to him before saluting as I walked into the tent. Luna was removing her tiara and necklace, placing them on a stand similar to Tia’s. “So the journal was a good idea was it not?” Luna had asked as she soon stood before a mirror and used her magic on a brush and started to brush her starry mane. “It’s a good way to keep a record of my thoughts.” He undid his belt and took his sword from it and hung it on a hook. “We have questions dear brother, just what was it like in the human world?” Tom could understand her question. She had told him that humans once lived alongside them and were their friends until they became greedy and corrupted. So she and Celestia banished the race to parts unknown. “It depends Luna. Humans, most of them are a barbaric race. It saddens me to say such a thing to the race of which I currently belong to but it is the truth. We kill each other over things so stupid. The most common thing is religious beliefs. I know that here in Equestria there is no such thing and look how harmonious it is. Then you have those that lose their minds, killers, rapists, thieves, anyone who believes that they are better then you has the potential to be any of the above.” “But that is not to say that there are not those with good hearts. Though with all the evil abound they are few and far between as I had told Tia. They are destroying the beauty of their world all for the sake of the masses and wealth. They take without a thought of giving back and that is the worst tragedy.” Tom had sat upon the bed and Luna walked over to him before kissing his cheek. “Thou are here with us now dear Lunar. No longer need that world concern thee. From thy thoughts alone it shows us that Tia and I were right in removing humans from this world. Their destructive nature is not something we wish upon our subjects, thou being one of them.” Tom smiled and returned her kiss and they each gave the other a hug. Luna then climbed into bed and snuggled herself under the blanket that lay upon the bed. Tom joined her and he removed his cloths and only wore his shirt and boxers. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was late at night and something roused the human from his slumber. Cuddled up beside him was the smaller Alicorn princess. Since Tia was taken he had noticed that Luna was more stern and less cheerful then she used to be. It was understandable because he was the same way. Suddenly though a shifting shadow caught his eye and he moved from the bed fast, trying not to wake Luna in the process. He moved to grab his sword and quickly drew it. The tip of the blade pointed towards the shadow. “Whatever manner of creature you are, you had best reveal thyself or taste my blade’s sting.” The darkend creature before him stood roughly and inch or so taller then Celestia. Reaching up with a hoof it removed the hood covering its head to show that it was a Unicorn but wait, unicorns aren’t that tall and certainly unicorns don’t have six smaller horns around the the larger one. The coat was a golden yellow, and the mane a shimmering silver. Her eyes were blue like deep pools. Tom had no idea whom it was that stood before him nor was he about to let this Alicorn, if that is what she was, anywhere near Luna. “State your business or be cut down.” “My business is with you my young stallion. You need not worry about Luna, I would never do her harm nor her sister.” She smiled to the human and even in the light of the moon that bled through the tent’s cloth casing he could see the glint of tears in her eyes. Tom lowered his sword and raised a brow. “Who are you?” The mare placed a hoof to her chest and looked down as she spoke. “For an age I watched as you grew into the stallion I had hoped you would one day become. I watched as you slew all manner of creature in your quest to bring peace and harmony to the world. I watched and wept the day you were taken from this world by that spear. I wanted to do something, had to do something but I was bound by an oath not to get involved. I can not put into words how it feels to watch somepony you care for be taken from you in an instant and be able to do nothing about it but watch. I am one of the four, well three now that watches over and governs this world. My name is Gaia.” She then slowly lifts her head to look upon the human. “My being here can not deter you from your destiny. You wish to rescue Celestia while at the same time protecting those whom you hold dear. I am sorry Lunar that I was not there for you like I should have been. When I found out you had been reborn into another body I began to frantically look for you. When at last I found you I could not believe the fates were so cruel as to place you among such a destructive kind. I thought surely your mind would be broke and your moral lost to the winds. Yet here you are standing before me. It’s as though the fates are granting me a second chance.” “That still dose not explain why you are here in the middle of the night.” The mare took a deep breath before letting it out. “In all the time I had watched over you, wanting to hold you when you cried, wanting to laugh with you and be there for you when you needed me I could not. It pained me to leave you but at the time it was best that you, like Celestia and Luna not be pulled in to such a conflict. Lunar I am here to beg for your forgiveness. I know I do not deserve it but I ask it of you nonetheless.” Tom could not understand just what she was getting at. “Pretend I do not know just what it is you are talking about.” Again the mare took a deep breath before letting it out. “Lunar, my dear baby boy. I am your mother. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom then woke with a start. He nearly leapt from the bed in a cold sweat, panting softly. He felt Luna shift beside him and looked to her. “It was all a dream?” He slowly got out of the bed and walked over to the spot where in his dream he had the conversation with his “mother”. How could that be though, and why now? Why not while he first arrived or back on earth if what she said was true. What he could remember of those that raised him was that they were both pegasi. His father was in royal guard while he was young, then they were both taken in a raid by Diamond Dogs. “A dream it was, nothing more.” His head looked back to the bed as Luna shifted once more before slowly sitting up. “Lunar, doth something vex thee?” Tom just shook his head and walked back beside the bed before sitting upon it. “It was just some weird dream.” He looked over his shoulder before Luna sat beside him. “Pray tell would thou like to tell us?” The human took a breath before letting it out. “What do you know about an Alicorn named Gaia?” “The earth guardian? Well not much really. We and sister overheard our mother and father talking about such a pony. But exactly what was spoken we can not say. All we recall is that she controls and protects the very earth beneath our hooves.” “Sounds like a belief we have on earth. Gaia along with three others created our world but then were beaten and locked away by the children of one. There is another that says that she is the very essence or spirit of our planet.” Luna looked to the human and nodded her head. “T’is no wonder thy kind have so much conflict. Different ways of thinking without the ability to accept that which is not the same. But thou are not of their kind, least not anymore. Thou are one of us brave Lunar regardless of how thy look.” She then nuzzled his cheek and smiled. Tom was thankful for the gesture. It helped to put his mind at ease about what he had just seen. “Back on Earth I was not someone who felt that fighting was the best idea. I had always thought that is we could work out our differences without resorting to violence that maybe we could start to work towards a better future. I end up here and when I realized I could use magic I thought that maybe now I could make a difference because I had the power to make change, to be able to DO something to help better the world.” “Thou are dearest brother. Even if thou can not see it, thou are helping to make this world a better and safer place. Thou are protecting thy future subjects.” Tom then turned his head back to Luna. “What? Thou did ask for thy sister’s hoof in marriage did thou not?” Tom nodded. “Then our statement stands.” “I guess it must seem odd though. A human, last of a kind that was part of this world marrying your sister.” He chuckled softly. Luna however just shook her head. “Regardless of your appearence you are Lunar Star, an Alicorn just like we and Tia. If any pony were to say otherwise we will throw them in the dungeon for heresy.” Tom laughed at her comment. “I don’t think we would have to resort to such extremes but thank you Luna, I understand your way of seeing it.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Day 40 We are nearing the town of Dappleshore and... Tom had stopped his writing once the town was in sight. Before their eyes the small town lay in ruins. Houses, fields, everything was razed to the ground. The human placed his book within his shoulder bag and continued to walk when every pony, even Luna had stopped and looked on in shock. Such devastation, bodies of ponies were littered upon the ground. Most were charred to the bone. He walked through the ash filled streets, looking from one side to the next, taking in all that he could. “The beasts. They must have been told of our coming and thought to destroy the town rather then lose it.” Twilight and the others trotted up beside him as their forces followed. “Spread out, we want a full report of the damage. Try and find any survivors, if there are any to be found.” Luna had shouted out orders to troops. Tom pushed open a burned up door and walked inside. The home was in shambles, walls were burned to the point of them nearly collapsing. Everything was gone, destroyed by the inferno that took the town. Everything that is but a small purple dragon plush toy. It didn’t stand out right away but a small ray of light shone through one of the many holes and seem to point to it. The human bent down and took the plushie from the ash covered floor and patted it till there was no more ash upon its plush body. He looked into its eyes before clutching it close to his chest. He had soon emerged when the reports were coming in. “We are sorry your highness. The entire town has been burned to the ground. So far we have found no survivors, only corpses.” “Very well. Continue the search, leave nothing to chance.” The pegasus soldier nodded his head then took to the sky. The human continued through the streets, keeping an eye out for anything or any pony. The sound of flapping wings and a clopping of hooves caught his attention. “This is...insane.” “These ponies were only farmers and merchants. Not one of them ever had a moment of military training and even if they did, it was not enough.” Tom looked over his shoulder to Rainbow Dash. “No pony, no matter how cruel deserves a fate like this. They knew we were coming, it’s the only way.” A sudden figure ran passed Tom’s eye and into an adjacent room. “Rainbow stay here.” He rose up and slowly walked down a decrepid hall. Before even entering the room he heard soft whimpers and sobs coming from within. He peaked his head around the corner and there huddled up was earth pony foal. Her coat was a chocolate brown and her mane and tail the lightest of yellow. Her ear’s pearked up as she heard him come into the dilapidated room. The young filly quickly backed herself into a corner as Tom drew close. “No s-stay back. Please don’t hurt me.” Tom knelt before the little foal and placed a gentle hand to her head. “You are safe now little one. You have my word that nopony will harm you.” As he picked her up into his arms, she tried her best to squirm out of them but he held her close. “Please little one, be still.” He was coming back down the hall when Twilight first spotted him with the foal in his arms. “Everypony quick, Star’s found a survivor.” A group of ponies including Luna rushed over to the two of them. The little pony looked up to the human as she had stopped squirming and settled into his arms. Tom then dropped to a knee to allow the medics to look over the little pony. “She seems to be none the worse for wear. Just a few bruises and scrapes.” The medic told Luna before she stepped forward toward the foal still in the human’s arms. “What is thy name child?” “Chocolate Dreams, Princess.” Tom looked to Luna. “We can not leave her in a place like this and if they did this to Dappleshore, can you imagine what they might already be doing to Trottingham?” Luna nodded. “Indeed we can. Everypony listen, we are not staying here. Gather up any supplies that survived and let us depart. Trottingham may well be suffering the same fate if we are not fast enough.” She then looked to the human once more. “Sir Lunar, we are placing little Chocolate under your care till we reach Trottingham.” The little foal looked up to Tom with wide eyes. “You’re Lunar Star? My mommy used to tell me stories about you.” “I am sure that they were all very good stories little one but we must be going. How about you tell me on the way?” The filly nodded as he set her down. A/N: Sorry for the really long wait folks, things have been hectic here. Anyway I was thinking on changing it up to keep the story flowing in the next chapter or two, just so you don't get bored. In any event, keep an eye out. > Celestia's Revelation > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- I have lost track of the days I have been held here within this acursed cell. The jailor comes by twice a day with food and picks up the bucket they expect me to use as a toilet. It shakes me to my very core how they can treat a captive this way. My white coat is no loner its pristine color. Thanks to the floor of the cell it is now a dingy grey. My mane once flowed with magic now hangs since they place this platinum ring upon my horn to suppresses my magic powers. Now it’s only as dirty as my coat. Some days I look up at the tiny barred window and see the sun rise. I know it is not me so it only three others. But the more I think about it the more I believe that Candence has not the power to move such an object so that only leaves two, Luna or Lunar. Either way I feel as though they are alive, I know it might sound naive but the hope of them coming to my rescue is all that is keeping me going now. Oh I am sorry, where are my manners. I am Celestia Dawnstar, I am Princess of Equestria and fiance to my childhood friend Lunar Star. My life is a myriad of things that have come and gone. When I was a child my mother and father brought Luna and I up on the principle that one day we would be ruling the ponies of Equestria. We were tutored by the finest minds of the day, that is until Lunar came. His parents were part of my mother and father’s legion. The two of them were proud fighters from what I can remember. It might also be the reason as to why Lunar is the way he is today. Anyway Lunar was brought to us after his mother and father were killed in a Diamond Dog raiding party. They died defending our castle as well as their son. My father being whom he was looked upon the young Lunar and decided to take him in. At first my mother was against it. But giving Lunar another look over, she too changed her mind. I am not sure if there was an outside influence that gave my parents their choice but at that moment it was beyond my understanding. They gave Lunar his own room and instructed one of my mother’s servitors to become his caretaker, her name was Autumn Breeze if I recall correctly. He was not much younger then me but much older then Luna. The days we spent together were some of the happiest I had ever felt. Granted though it maybe that we were prone to playing pranks on one another, I was still fairly happy that I had friends aside from my sister Luna.... ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The sound of a door opening came from the end of the hall. It was then that Celestia set down her quill and looked up. A female gryphon walked over to her cell, she held within her claws a large bowl of salad. “I am sorry your highness but this is all I could get without getting seen.” The gryphon opened the cell door, walked in and closed it behind her. She walked over and placed it upon a small wooden table which Celestia had also been using as a writing desk. “It is quite alright Hilda I know you are trying your best for me and I appreciate it. I just wish there were something I could do to repay your kindness.” The gryphon bowed her head. “Please your majesty, your words are thanks enough. I am deeply sorry however for the actions of our current ruler. Greaves’s father was never this power hungry.” Celestia shook her head. “Indeed he wasn’t, nor were the other rulers before him. I do not understand Greaves logic. He kidnaps me to get to Luna and Lunar yet he let Lunar live, why?” “I am not sure your highness. Greaves was always a selfish child, I should know, I grew up with him. My guess is that with you gone it would have installed a moral blow to them. Though if it is true or not I can not say.” Celestia slowly ate her meal as the female gryphon looked over the parchment she had given to her before. “So this is what you had been writing?” She skimmed through until she had seen the part where Celestia had mentioned her engagement. “I am sorry that they took you from him princess.” “Hmm? It was not by your doing Hilda. They had threatened to kill him if I had not complied with their wishes.” The alicorn had finished off her meal before walking up beside the gryphon. “It must be at least a month and a half now since his return. I was merely writing to keep my wits about me as well as to remember all the good things about my life and what has happened.” “I see. Well I have to get back to my rounds princess otherwise Greaves might get suspicious.” Celestia nodded as the gryphon walked out and locked the cell behind her. “I’ll be back later with your dinner your highness.” With that she disappeared down the hall. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I’m sorry for that interruption but when you only get two meals a day when you are used to three it tends to have an effect on you. Anyway where was I? A week or so after Lunar had started living with us within the castle, he was tutored along with Luna and myself. Luna and I thought that our mother and father might also name Lunar their successor as well but even if they had, Lunar refused. He did not see himself the ruling type. Heh it seems strange now that I think about it seeing as he and I are to be married. Either way I would have hoped for nothing else. During our childhood Lunar, Luna and myself would often play games in the courtyard while our caretakers watched to make sure we didn’t get into any trouble. My mother and father were normally busy most of the day to do much with us. But Luna and I knew that they loved us. Every night before they would tuck us into bed, my mother would read Luna and I a story from one of the many she had. At the time I did not know the impact of Lunar losing his parents. One night I found out. I had gotten out of bed for some reason and entered the hall. Lunar’s room was across from ours so the moment I entered the hall I could hear light sobs. I pressed my head against the oak door and listen closely. My heart nearly broke when I heard Lunar’s cries for his mother. I slowly pushed open the door and looked inside. Through the sobbing I could hear a song from his lips. I guessed it was one his mother sang to him when he was just a foal. To this day I still do not fully understand the meaning nor nature of that lullaby. Still though I stayed and listen to the entirety of it before approaching him. He knew I was there somehow because he spoke to me. I was a little taken back by his voice, it sounded so sad and so void of felling that I shuddered. This was not the colt I had played with that day. He sat on the window sill with the shutters open and a gentle cool breeze flowing in. He was staring up to the moon as I had walked up beside him. He told me that his mother once told him that the stars were once great ponies. That when they died, their spirits would journey into the heavens and thus that is where they stayed. He pointed to a set of twin stars side by side and said those were his mother and father. Even though I had thought differently The thought of his parents watching over him seemed to comfort him, however small. From then on I would visit him every night and we would sit and watch the moon and stars that my father cared for. The days following the three of us had become inseparable and would cause such trouble for each other. I recall the one day Lunar and Luna filled one of my favorite shampoos with pink mane dye. I flipped out the moment I saw it in the mirror. The two of them were already running and laughing at my expense. All I could think about was making them pay for ruining my mane. I had chased them through the castle and even into the air once Lunar took off with Luna on his back. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Celestia placed the quill upon the table and lowered her head. Her mane hung over her eyes. Never in her long life had any one ever bring her down this hard. She felt helpless. She could try to remove the ring from her horn and escape but there was a spell placed upon the ring that prevented her from taking it off. So there she sat looking to the floor of her stone cell. Thoughts would race through the ancient alicorn’s mind. Mostly on is her sister and lover were alright but other times her mind would wander to her beloved student Twilight. “I am sorry Twilight. I know I normally seem so strong but the truth is I am just like every other mare.” The regal pony just closed up the book and placed the quill beside its inkwell. She walked over to a bedding of hay with a blanket over it that her jailor gave her and laid upon it. She looked up through the bars of the window the mid day sun shown softly through it and lit up a spot in the stone floor. Celestia had not felt like this in a long time. The last time she was like this was the day Lunar had fallen from the sky into the forest surrounding their castle. Her mind would drift to other things as well. Normally during the early mornings there were times where she would become ill. She started thinking that maybe Greaves was slowly poisoning her, but why? He wanted her alive for some reason so killing her would be counter productive. Plus why was it only the mornings? Celestia wrapped her head around many idea of what could be causing her morning illness, then it hit her. She recalled one of her servants becoming pregnant and was unable to preform her duties during the early mornings. “Can... can it be true? Could I really be...?” She was not sure just how it could have happened, well she had a pretty good guess but was it really that easy? Was the magic the human controlled able to transform his genetic makeup? In the long time that she had lived, the Alicorn mare had seen a number of things that she herself thought to be impossible, so surely that is the reason in this case. It stayed upon her mind till she closed her eyes and slowly drifted off to sleep. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was not for many hours that the princess woke to the sound of her cell being opened and a female gryphon stepping in. The Alicorn princess lifts her head slowly and yawned. “I am sorry to wake you princess but you must eat or else will have to wait till morning.” She then placed the bowl upon the table. The princess softly smiled to her. “Thank you Hilda, I know you risk your station by doing this for me.” The gryphon shook her head. “Not at all your highness. there are few of us who have not forgotten the days of the Panther Wars. They were truly dark times for us all. which reminds me princess, are you still feeling sick in the mornings?” The Alicorn stopped eating her meal and looked up. “So you can tell?” Hilda nodded. “When I came for your bucket, I noticed there was vomit within it while I dumped it. I wonder princess if you have caught something.” Celestia’s eyes softened and she gestured no. “The only thing I have my dear Hilda, the one thing that I can think of is that I am carrying a foal.” Hilda’s eye’s widened. At first what went through her head was excitement but then she slowly began to be filled with rage. “Damn that Greaves, how dare he do this to you! I kill him myself if I must!” Celestia quickly tried to settle the female before she drew attention to them. “No my dear Hilda, Greaves has never touched me nor would I have allowed him even if he tried. My magic maybe bound but I am not without the ability to defend myself if needed. No the foal that I carry within me can only be one other’s.” She gently placed a hoof to her stomach. “Who’s princess?” “That of my champion, that of Lunar.” The gryphoness nearly fell over from where she had stood. “How is that possible? You said it yourself that he is not a pony. So... how?” Celestia looked down and shook her head. “I wish I knew for certain. I have been alive a very long time and even there are things about magic I still do not know.” > Sun's memories > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Another week has gone by and I know that I have not written within these pages till now but my morning sickness seems to get the best of me some times. I still can not believe that such a thing has transpired. In all my long years this will be my first pregnancy. I must be truthful however, I had told Lunar that I had never taken another to my bed but that dose not mean that they have not tried to seduce me with gifts and promises of grand things. One... Orion I believe his name was, nearly got close but I just could not allow myself even if I knew that I should. It’s strange, I always thought myself above such things, I mean Lunar had been gone for nearly two hundred years and yet all I could do was think of him. Every stallion that tried to court me, I had used him as a basis for. Most were just too into themselves, others only wanted the envy of their peers. But Orion was different... for a brief time I thought Lunar had been reborn and I would finally get a second chance at being happy. It was mid-summer and I had just returned from a diplomatic mission with Concordia and the Elk leaders. He was there waiting for me. Before then we had grown to become the closest of friends. He would always know how to make me smile when I seemed upset or make me laugh when we drank morning tea together. It was during the days before the Gala and several years since he and I became closer then I should have let. After I had finished he asked me aside and before I could say a word he proposed to me. In that moment all I saw was Lunar, it was then that I realized that my love for him ran deeper then I had ever thought possible. I...respectfully declined, I knew that if I agreed all that I would see in his face would be Lunar and that was something I did not wish upon him. He was confused at first which was understandable. He asked why, so I told him. The feelings I had for him were not for him, they were for the one stallion he reminded me of and that, I would not put him and myself through such an ordeal. He understood and after that, I never saw him again. I suppose it was for the best From then on I made sure to distance myself from my subject but not to the point of being detached. I still loved them all and valued each and every pony deeply but I had to cut myself off or risk regretting it later. I had resigned myself to a lone existence. When Luna returned and was freed from her darker emotions, Lunar had been gone nearly fifteen hundred years. Luna, I suppose it was my fault that she became what she did. I was too busy in my work to notice, and when I did it was too late. I pleaded and begged her to reconsider her choice but she refused saying that if they would not appreciate her during the night then she would make the night last forever. It was then I had no choice so I gathered the Elements of Harmony and with their power, I sent her to live in the moon. The elements. The three of us found them deep within the earth. Without them I do not think we could have beaten Discord as easily as we had. Anyway after Luna’s banishment...I lost touch with the Elements, they refused to obey me and became that of stone. Oh sorry I seemed to have strayed a little there. I tend to do that a lot it seems, moving from one topic to another without fully finishing it. What was I saying? Oh right, I suppose cutting myself off from my subject slightly was not the best of ideas but the fact that Lunar was somehow returned to us, all be it in a different form was justified. I still could not believe it. I was just reading over a few documents when I first felt his power and I had dropped my tea and my heart raced. I could not breath for what seemed like an eternity. I swore that I must have been imagining it, that I was just hoping against hope. But when Luna came rushing in and informed me that she too had felt it... I knew. There had to be some reason to explain what it was that we had felt yet none presented itself. So... so as not to get my hopes up incase we were wrong I had to take steps. I had to be certain that after so long he was back. It was a few days after I had sent a letter to my faithful student Twilight Sparkle instructing her to report to me any thing she might find within the location of where we felt the power surge. Upon her response I was not sure how to react. Humans had been gone from our world for nearly ten thousand years, to the point of becoming myth and legend. Yet somehow one remained and not only that he was able to use magic. I thought I felt my heart stop upon reading her letter so instead I rushed through the castle to Luna’s room and showed her the letter. All that happened hit me at once and I could not even move. It was Luna whom had broke me from my stupor. She insisted that we go to which I had agreed, I could indeed wait no longer. Our trip to Ponyville was a short one from all the other times that we had traveled there. Upon arriving at Twilight’s she informed us that he had pasted out just as soon as they had arrived. She was begining to get worried since he had not woken yet. She told us that it the last two times it happened he awoke a few hours afterwards but this was longer then that. It turned out that it would be two days till he woke. During then I found myself staying by his side more then the others. I still was not sure why I felt so attached to this lone human. I guess maybe I though that he and I had something in common being that we both knew the poisonous kiss of loneliness. When he finally awoke two days later I, Luna, Twilight and all her friends were circled around his bed. He looked as though he were just coming out of a daze. The seven of them spoke for a time as Luna and I stood and looked upon him. Indeed he did give off the same energies that we had felt. See when I was with Orion I felt no such power but with this human that lay before me, he just radiated it and only ponies like Luna, myself and Cadence are able of such a thing. He soon asked to talk with me privately. Once every pony had stepped outside, I confronted him. It was odd how his world had knowledge of us yet we knew nothing of them. It was then that he mentioned a name... a name that I knew for certain he would have never known. When I asked him how he had come to know that name, he told me. He went into detail about the images that he saw while he was out. Everything he said to me about that time brought up some painful memories that I thought were long gone. I hung my head in hopes to hide my pain from him but then I felt a gentle warmth on my cheek and looked up seeing him smile at me. My heart melted and I knew for certain that this was none other then my champion... my Lunar. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The cell to the princess opened and in stepped Hilda once more. Within her claws was the usual salad that was the princess’s meal. “Oh you’re up today. I hope you aren’t feeling too under the weather?” Celestia shook her head and softly smiled. “I was just writing some more since I have not been able to do so for the past week.” “Well princess I managed a gift for you.” The gryphoness opened her wing and grabbed an envelope before opening it and placing the parchment on the table, unrolling it. It turned out to be a letter but from first glance she was not sure whom from. “One of our scouts managed to smuggle this within the castle before giving it to me. H said that it was to be seen by your eyes and your eyes alone.” Celestia cocked her head before looking back to the parchment. “Are you certain this is not some sort of trick Greaves is playing at just to give me some sort of false hope?” The gryphon shook her head. “I swear to you princess. I know this scout and he is very loyal to us, that is to say, those whom side with you.” Celestia looked down and began to read but gasped as soon as she started. To my beloved Celestia I would like to inform you that Luna and I are safe. We have assembled a massive army and have marched through Equestria, taking back the towns and settlements that the gryphons have taken. The fighting has been nothing short of hell. Many good ponies have lost their lives to this senseless war Greaves has brought upon us. Had it not been for Gallen, a gryphon observer, we might not have ever known the extent of Greaves’s reach into Equestria. It was also he that made this letter possible. Goddesses the things I have seen and done in my short time here. I had thought once I was brought here that the sight of war was behind me, I guess I was wrong. We have saved Stalliongrad, New Saddle and Canterbury but... Dappleshore was completely razed to the ground. As we speak we have been at a stalemate with the forces that occupy Trottingham. We managed to get most of the ponies out under the cover of night but there are still more left inside the walls of the city and it’s those we are trying to get to. It has been a grueling two weeks and sometimes I fear we may break but then your sister dose her best to boost every ponies morale. I swear to you princess we are doing all we can to reach you. Once Trottingham is back within our control it will only be a trek through the Forest of the Forsaken and then to the base of the northern mountains. I promise you my dearest love, I will pay back Greaves for all he’s done in spades. I must end this letter now. Keep in mind that we are doing all that we can to reach you so just hold on for a little longer. I love you Dawnbringer, never forget that. Lunar Celestia looked to the letter for a good while and a few tears fell from her eyes, her disheveled mane obscuring them. Hilda was not sure just what it was she was to do so she softly asked. “Princess, are you alright?” “He’s remembered Hilda.” The gryphon was not sure just what she meant so she walked around the table and looked upon the letter. In her shock, she read through the letter and felt a ping of fury well up inside her. She came to the name Dawnbringer. “I had seen this in you first entry, What is it?” “It is my name, Celestia Dawnbringer. Though over the centuries the ponies of Equestria had just addressed me as Princess or Princess Celestia. My sister is Luna Moonglow.” She gently started to roll up the parchment. “Forgive me princess but I have to make my rounds. If you want to relay a reply to him, I’ll have my scout make sure he gets it. I’ll be back for it come this evening.” With that she walked out and closed the cell door behind her and locked it. Celestia looked to the bowl which had her food in it and walked over before slowly eating from it. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- To my dearest sister and my loving stallion Every day that I had spent here seems like an eternity. I had not had a bath since before being brought here so you can imagine just what I might look like. During the first few weeks all I heard was roars from above. I guess that is must have been from Greaves when he learned that Luna and you had decided to fight back. Though I am not sure just what his intent was on abducting me aside from hoping to leave a mortal blow to both of you plus all of Equestria. I want you to know though that despite all of that, I am ok. I eat and even though I am within their dungeon, I still have someone looking out for me. I can not tell you for fear of them being found out but please, please both of you be careful. Greaves is ruthless and will not stop at anything. You may have had victories because you were on Equestian soil but once you cross those borders, you are on unknown ground and the enemy can and may very well come from anywhere. I am doing my best to cope with everything that is and has gone on. Also I would like to to thank you or Luna, whom ever it was that took over my duty of raising the sun. The ponies of Equestria need that light that the sun brings to there lives. I can not stress how much I love you both and hope that someday soon we will be reunited and this awful war is over. I will hold you both within my heart. Celestia ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The princess of the sun laid down finally after pacing back and forth in her cell. Even with all the time that she had spent within that square prison, she was still restless and not accustomed to it. It was so out of her normal routine that she would sometimes have trouble sleeping. But she had to sleep, her body wanted it now. It was no longer herself that needed it but the foal that was slowly growing within her. She needed to take extra care with everything she did, that included the way she laid on the floor of the cell. She must have been asleep for a few hours because when she awoke the letter she had written was gone and a bowl of food was on the table. “Hilda must not have wanted to wake me.” She slowly got up and walked over to the table and began to eat her meal, once she was through, she returned to where she laid down and sat before looking up to the barred window as the moonlight slowly shown through. “Please be careful you two. I do not wish to lose any pony else close to me because of this. Please take care of my little Twilight as well.” > Fallen Angel > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom and his group were pinned behind a barricade as arrows whizzed flew over their heads. “Ugh this is pointless, all this waiting is getting on my nerves, I’m gonna do something about it.” “Stay right where you are Rainbow Dash or do you want to be a walking pin cushion? I know your feelings believe me. This stalemate is taking a lot longer then I thought it would. Trottingham’s walls are covered in archers and it’s a miracle we made it even this close.” Tom peeked over the side of the barricade he was pressed against only to have an arrow fly passed his face. He quickly spun around as a drop of blood slides down his cheek. “Sir Lunar is injured, send the medic!” “Belay that order. I am fine captain, just a scratch. Some pony give me a mirror, a small one.” “For what?” Tom looked over to the cyan pegasus. “Well I can’t very well look around the corner without getting my head shot off. We need to know just how many we are dealing with and just where they are situated. If not, then we are just waiting for them to pick us off.” Soon enough a stallion with a shield barrier came up the hill low so that he was not spotted and handed the mirror to the human. “Alright now, then lets just see what we have here.” Tom held the mirror out far enough just to see around the barricade. “Hmm... Ten archers on the top of the wall. One each upon the towers. Hmm... what’s this? Seems there is a hole in the stone wall out of their line of sight. That might be our ticket in.” “Sir?” The human laid his back upon the barricade that a group of them used for a shield from the arrows, his mind racing with thoughts on how to get inside without being found out. “Gah while you sit and think about it I’m going to do something.” Before anyone could stop her, Rainbow Dash took to the air at break neck speed. “Come on you bird brains, lets see you hit me!” The archers on the took aim and fired towards the pegasus. Arrows whizzing pasted her and she easily dodged each and every one. “Every pony move! To the opening!” Several ponies including Tom rushed to the gap in the stone wall surrounding the town. “Lets go, move move move move!” Pony after pony rushed into the large hole until only Tom was left. It took only a moment for Tom to look back and watch as an arrow struck the rainbow maned pony on her side, dropping her like a stone. “RAINBOW!!” Tom took off, not listening to the calls from his lesser as he made his way to the down pegasus. The archers now focused solely on him as he ran with all the speed that could carry him. One archer in particular saw that Rainbow Dash was still moving and fired an arrow to her. But Tom was closer and before the projectile had a chance to end her, the human stood there before her. A barrier was around him and the slowly crawling pegasus. Two earth ponies took the opportunity and rushed to grab hold of the pegasus. The bulk of the army had not arrived just yet so the human was only given a small portion to try and knock out the enemy defenses. He had no idea that they would be this heavily defended but it mattered little right now. All that he cared about was getting his friend safe and taken care of. Once the three of them were out of the archers range Tom turned and faced the walls that barred them from entering. His eyes glowed with power and his rage grew. He would not let a single one of them live, not after all the atrocities they caused. The barrier he used to shield himself and Rainbow Dash dropped. Not wanting to miss this chance, all those along the wall and towers fired upon him. “NO!!” The arrows stopped just inches from him. Each one shrouded in a purple aura. Again they fired more and again they were stopped just inches from the human standing alone before them. Slowly he took a step forward and the arrows turned before being sent flying back at them, some hitting them in the face, others in their chests. Bodies falling off the wall to the ground below. No pony had seen but upon his back sprouted large translucent ethereal wings. Gently they flapped and carried the human up and onto the wall. As soon as he touched down, gryphons from all sides came out from the towers to rush him but none got close. He threw the first to reach him into those behind then turned and grabbed one whom came up behind him by the neck and grinned evilly before tightening his grasp and pulling, ripping the gryphon’s throat out, blood splattered upon his body, the gryphon gasping and gurgling for air before falling dead. Another tried to cut the wings upon his back but when the blade passed through them he was in shock. However that didn’t last long as Tom drew his sword and swung it around behind him, slicing into the assailants neck, nearly severing his head. Many whom saw the blood covered creature took to the air to escape. Those that remained were promptly cut down where they stood. The small group that entered through the gap in the wall began to lower to drawbridge, once it was down the rest of their forces rushed in but stopped as the human dropped down in front of them, covered in blood, feathers and pieces of gore. Even his own soldiers started to fear him. He began to make his way into the town before falling to the ground, his wings fading away. “Medic!” The same two ponies rushed to the fallen human’s side and loaded him up onto a stretcher while the others stormed the town. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was not more then a few hours that the town was finally taken as the rest of the army arrived. Tom laid within a medical tent, cleaned of all the sweat, blood and gore. The sound of voices is what roused him from his sleep. “How is he doctor?” “Well I see nothing physically wrong with him, however that being said that dose not mean that there might not be emotional damage. I think the thought of losing his friend pushed him to the point of magical exhaustion.” “What doth thou mean?” “It means that he pushed himself beyond what he is capable of. I have seen it with unicorns many times.” “But... they said he had wings?” Tom stirred a little as the doctor cleared his throat. “Yes well that too could have been a factor to why he collapsed.” “What of Rainbow Dash?” He finally spoke as he opened his eyes. Twilight and Luna were standing beside his bed to which Luna quickly nuzzled him which he returned. “Luckily the arrow did not hit any of her vital organs and was removed. She will recover but it will take time. I told her as well as her friends that she is not to fly until she is fully healed or risk agitating her wound.” “May I see her?” “I do not see why not but you must take it easy. Your magic exhaustion would have sapped your strength also so don’t push yourself if you can’t do it.” “We shall assist him.” Luna stated. “Me too.” Twilight added. Tom then slowly rose from his bed and looked upon himself to see he was in a new set of clothing. “Oh those are compliments of Rarity. She figured you might need some new cloths since you have been wearing the same ones you arrived in the whole time.” He smiled as he rested upon the two mares and they escorted him from the tent only be be met with cheers and whistles from all those around. The two of them guides him through their camp as more begin to acknowledge him The two took him within a tent on opposite side of his own and there sitting up in her bed was the cyan pegasus surrounded by her friends. Both Luna and Twilight walked the human over to the chair that Pinkie Pie had slid over to the bed for him. They sat him down slowly to which he groaned. Once seated he looked to the cyan pegasus and she to him. A silence passed before anything was said. “Hey I’m...” They both spoke at the same time which elected a giggle from the others. “You first.” Tom sighed deeply. “I am sorry Rainbow, I should have stopped you from going out there but all I did was have our group get inside.” Rainbow Dash just shook her head. “No I should be the one sorry. I knew the risks and still I did it anyway.” “Be that as it may I should have at least gone with you.” “Hey I’m a big girl, I can take care of myself besides, the ponies within those walls needed you more. Plus I’m ok though I can’t fly which bites but I’ve dealt with it before.” Very gently he reached out his hand and took her hoof. Placing his other hand on top of it he took a deep breath and spoke. “Well now looks like im going to have to put up with your nagging about not begin able to fly for a while.” He smirked. Rainbow was not amused and glared at him. She opened her mouth to say something but the giggles from everyone else stopped her before she could. “So, how did everything go while I was out?” “When we had arrived, the legion you had lead regained a portion of the town. T’was not much but it gave us a hoof hold to where we could make strategic advances upon the enemy. We have even taken their commander hostage.” Luna spoke as she sat beside the human. “I would like to see him.” “Her.” “Well I would like to see her. If that is alright with you?” Luna nodded and helped Tom to his feet. “Twilight Sparkle we would like it if thou would stay here. We are sure that this will be a very heated discussion and would not like to further put any burden upon thee.” “I appreciate it princess but it’s no problem but I see what you mean. I’ll wait here with everypony else.” Tom nodded as Luna rose, using her as a brace the human pulled himself from the chair. “We shall return once our discussion is through.” With that the two left and walked out of the tent into the mid day sun. Up till the time he woke from his unconscious state Tom was up for more then two days so indeed he was tired. It did not take them long till they arrived to the tent where the gryphon female was being held. “You think this is funny? Having me caged up like some type of wild animal?” “Silence gryphon, you are here because you and your kind have made a war upon us when one should never have been made.” Luna lead Tom over to a chair that sat in front of the barred cell. Once the human was seated one of the guards hands him the clipboard with any information they had gotten out of her. Luna sat beside him as he read. “So...your name is...Gilda? Wait Dash’s friend?” “Ex- friend.” “Yes I remember the incident well. You despise anyone that dose not fit into your thought of cool. so when you turned your back on her..” The gryphon growled. “SHE turned her back on ME! She disrespected me and made a fool of me!” Tom leaned back into his chair and brought his one leg up on the other. “From what I remember you were the one acting like a brute. Forgive me if I am wrong.” Gilda said nothing at first but then spoke up. “I take it Dash told you all this?” Tom shook his head. “In case you were unaware, Rainbow was badly injured by one of your archers.” Her eyes widened at this aspect and rushed to the cell bars. “Is she ok? She’s not dead is she? Oh geez I never meant...” “Never meant for her to get hurt? Weren’t you the one who said she was your ex-friend? If that true I do not think you would be acting in such a way now would you? Suffice it to say that yes she is well and recovering. Though she will not be able to fly for quite some time.” Gilda let out a sigh of relief and fell on her haunches. “Who are you and how do you know so much?” Tom took a deep breath. “My human name is Tom but my friends call me Star. You however will know me by another name.... Lunar Star.” The gryphon’s jaw dropped. “The savior? They said you fell during the end of the Panther Wars.” “I did but was reborn into the form you now see. My memory is still a little hazy but I remember a lot more then when I first arrived. Now considering you are our prisoner and are working for the enemy by rights we should execute you for the wrongs you have done against us. However, Princess Luna and myself have thought about this as you and I spoke. We are sending you back to Canterlot via teleportation. There Princess Cadence will have the guards place you within the dungeons. Once this war is over a sentence shall be passed. Alabaster! Jade!” Two unicorns stepped into the tent behind Tom and Luna. “Sir?” “Princess Luna and I have made our choice. We want you to take the prisoner back to Canterlot and give this letter to Princess Cadence. She will tell you what to do afterwards.” Tom held out a rolled up scroll that he had written. One of the two unicorns took the scroll from his hand before they both walked into the cell. Jade had shackled the gryphon with her magic while Alabaster channeled his magic and in a flash, they were gone. “Do you think we should tell Rainbow Dash about this?” Luna shook her head. “T’is best not to, lest she become too distraught to continue.” “I guess you’re right. So shall we return to thine friends?” Luna smiled and helped the human to his feet but he soon pushed off of her. “I’m a big boy, I can handle it.” He then shakily took a step forward, then another and another. Slowly he started to walk and make his way out of the tent which held their prisoner. Guards and soldiers alike saluted the both of them once they were spotted. “How is Chocolate?” “We have made sure that she is well taken care of. However she has asked about thee. It would seem she has taken a liking to thee.” Before they entered the tent with Twilight and the rest of the Elements were is a question on the back of his mind was bothering him. “By the way Luna, just whom dressed me while I was out?” Luna blushed a moment before speaking. “We did.” > Power of One > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Well it’s been a little bit since I last wrote anything down. I have been busy for most of the time, helping most of the ponies of Trottingham regain what life they once had before the gryphons decided to attack. I still can not believe what had happened the last few day. The trek to Trottingham was anything but smooth. High winds rolling off the mountain to the west made a cross wind with those coming from the east. Flying became non existent so our eyes were basically cut. We made our way through the forest to the west of the ruins of Dappleshore. It was the only cover we would have from then on. The rest of the way was nothing but open grasslands and rolling hills. Chocolate never left my side during the whole trip. Always asking me questions about my life and the things that I could remember. She was so young and was eager to learn more. She said that her mother and father strawberry and grape farmers. They would grow their grapes and sell most of them off, only keeping what they needed till the next harvest. Which I could understand, farmers on earth did that too. Still I could tell just by looking at her that she missed them. I am so very sorry little one, I wished we had gotten there faster. Rainbow as well as all her other friends are trotting up beside me. Rainbow Dash was badly injured by one of the archers that occupied Trottingham... ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Tom shuddered softly and was soon caught doing so by Rarity. “Oh dear, darling are you alright? You’re not cold are you?” Tom shook his head. “No, I’m just writing down what had happened recently since I left my book with Luna before we left to Trottingham. I just remembered seeing Rainbow lying there with that arrow sticking out. I swore she was dead and it was my fault.” Just then Tom was clocked upside his head. “Ow what they hay, what gives Rainbow?” He yelled rubbing his head. “Didn’t I tell you that it wasn’t your fault?” Tom sighed. “Yeah I know but still, I was in charge and I should have done something.” “From what Haze told me, if you didn’t react as fast as you did, Rainbow Dash might not be here.” Fluttershy spoke in a soft voice. “It wasn’t like you could foretell that future Star. If anypony could then we wouldn’t be here right now and you might not be here either. I don’t pretend to know everything even though I know a lot. But I think you were brought here for this reason. I think you were meant to help us.” Twilight placed a gentle hoof upon his hand. “So cheer up, besides you have a princess to save.” “Sorry ladies. Just the whole thing seems to be hitting me.” “What thing?” Rainbow sat beside the human. “Well everything. I mean nearly two months ago I was at home sleeping, the next thing I know I’m here. I always thought this place just an idea that someone came up with but... it’s as real as Earth. It’s like you know, how can I explain what I am seeing?” Twilight and her friends look to each other before Pinkie Pie spoke up. “You can’t.” “Huh?” “You can’t explain it because it doesn’t need to be explained, it just is.” The girls look to each other then back to Tom and nod in agreement. “She’s right you know. It’s best not to think about it and just go with it.” Tom nodded to them and smiled softly before he was tackled to the ground by Pinkie Pie, followed by all the rest until they all became a giggling piles of laughter. But it was stopped by a pony whom cleared his throat. “Lord Lunar, Princess Luna wishes to see you.” Twilight and her friends slowly climb off of the human as he rose to his feet. Brushing himself off he waved good bye to his six friends and followed the armored pegasus into Luna’s tent. “You wanted to see me princess?” “Please Lunar thou knows better then to address us as such. But yes we did wish to speak with thee. We will be leaving the safety of the forest tomorrow.” “You know with a name like the Forsaken Forest I was expecting something a bit more like the Everfree Forest.” Luna nodded her head. “Yes, one would think that which is why we leave come the morrow. Though the forest is not as wild dose not mean it is not dangerous. The faster we leave these trees the better. But any rate once we leave the safety of the forest we have no doubt that Greaves will have his entire army at the foot of their mountain waiting for us. Up until now we have noticed that thou has not been able to summon thy armor.” Tom shook his head. “No, I have no idea how to. To be honest I have been rather lucky I haven’t been killed up till this point. Believe me Luna if I knew what to do in order to summon it I would have. Tia said that when I needed it, it would come to me.” “We see. A lot of time has past since Tia and I had your armor made but it was Tia whom imbued it so we have no idea what enchantments were laid upon it.” Tom sighed and sat at one of the make shift tables. “We believe that when the battle comes it will come hard. We will need thee upon the front lines, to give our troops the drive they need to fight their hardest. We can not lose this coming battle Lunar. That is something we can not stress enough.” Tom nodded. “I know that Luna believe me.” He quickly drew his crystal sword and held it out before him. The blade pulsed and shined with magic power from his own body. “Naisha thirsts for Greaves’s blood.” “We understand thou is angered by King Greaves action but thou should not let thy rage cloud thy mind. Greaves is without a doubt furious with the constant losses... Lunar? What’s wrong?” Tom held his head in his hand, a look of pain upon his face. “I’m not sure. All of a sudden my head started to ache. I’m sure it’s nothing but perhaps it would be best if I rested a bit.” Luna nodded her head with a look of concern upon her but it would soon turn to shock when the human stood up and simply fell over. “Lunar! Guards!” Two pegasi ran into their princess’s tent and seen the fallen human upon the ground. “Help us get him into bed, quickly.” Twilight and her friends having heard Luna shout ran in as they were helping Tom into the bed he shared with Luna. “Princess Luna what’s going on, we heard you shout and came as soon as we could.” “We are not certain Twilight Sparkle. Lunar complained about a pain upon his head and once he rose, he simply fell over. He had not used any magic and we are not certain if his condition is what did it.” “Oh I hope the poor dear will be alright. He has done so much for us in such a short time. I would hate to see him leave us.” Rarity said as she stepped up beside the now slumbering human. “We are sure that it is nothing but exhaustion. He has after all been fighting for a few days non-stop, we all have.” The seven of them all having concerned looks upon their faces as they worry about their newest friend. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom woke with a start and opened his eyes, but all he saw was darkness. The only bit of light was that just above his head. He was alone and on instinct he called out for Twilight, her friends and Luna yet there was no answer. Sighing deeply he thought about what might have happened and how he got here but nothing to his memory coincided with what might have put him in this dark space. Shortly the sound of clopping hooves came from one direction. Picking up on this he turned his head and squinted into the black, still he could see nothing. “Who’s there? Luna? Twilight? Rainbow Dash?” Still nothing was said, only the sound of hooves hitting a hard surface, getting closer. The clopping soon stopped and even in the darkness he could feel a presence before him. A dark blue hoof extended out into the light. Tom stepped back as a muzzle game into the light. followed by the other hoof, as the body appeared it was then he was looking upon an alicorn. The larger pony stood nearly as tall as Tom did. The tip of his nose coming just shy of the human’s own. The Alicorn’s mane flowed in a gentle ethereal breeze and reminded the human of a silver mist. Once their eyes connected it was then that he knew just where he had seen that face before. “You’re... you’re Lunar Star aren’t you?” “Indeed I am young human though that is only half correct. I am also you, for you and I are one in the same. You need not fear where you are. For all practical reasons you are still within Luna’s tent resting.” The stallion spoke with a deep voice that held a great pride in what he said. “But then why am I here? I should be out there where they need me...us.” The stallion held out his hoof to stop the human. “This talk was long overdue Tom or would you prefer Star? The memories that you have been having are those of a life we once lived, back when we were both feared and respected.” The stallion held out a hoof. “Please sit.” Tom sat where he was and looked upon the male Alicorn that sat before him. He was not sure what to make of all this, so much had happened to him so fast that he was starting to wonder if this indeed was a dream. “There is much that you do not know so I am here to fill in the gaps. As I said, you and I are one in the same. Without me there is no you and without you there is no me. After the unfortunate events the day before the Panther War ended the spirit that was us was sent across the cosmos through what is called a Galactic Ley Line. It was this invisible stream of energy that brought us to Earth. There we searched for a vessel, a body to house our spirit. Once one was selected that was when you were created. You are representation of myself in human form. Up until recently you have no knowledge of Equestria aside from your world has created or thought they created. You are part of this world. Tell me, have you ever felt that something out there was calling to you but you could not tell where it was coming from?” Tom nodded. “That was because of Tia. She missed us so much that her thoughts carried across time and space to reach us. But it was not just her, Equestria was calling us home. Don’t you see, our home on Earth was never our real home. Why else would you feel things that no one else could? Were it not for Earth’s geo-stasus, you would have had immense magical powers.” The human sat and tried his best to take everything he was told in. It was hard to believe but everything that he said made sense. He had felt an odd pull against himself for years but could never tell just whom or what was calling out to him. “So if what you are saying is true, what do we do?” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was dusk by the the human stirred slowly and opened his eyes. All around him were the faces of his friends and Luna. He smiled softly to them before he tried slowly to sit up, the pain of being in one spot for so long made him groan. “We have got to stop meeting like this.” This made the girls giggle but Luna had no idea what he meant. “Are thou alright Lunar?” Tom nodded. “I think so. The pain is gone and somehow I feel, different.” “Different how, you still look like the same dirty stallion to me.” “Rainbow! Shame on you. You know what he is going through and still you have time to rip on him.” Rarity scolded. Tom chuckled a bit. “It’s ok Rarity. To be honest I feel... complete somehow. My memories I remember it all now, everything. The night Tia and I shared that night so long ago. The time when the three of us were foals. Even... even Queen Solaris and King Evening Star.” Luna gasped. Twilight on the other hoof being whom she was just had to ask. “Who are they?” It was at this the he smiled. “I think the one you should ask is Luna.” The six friends looked to the night princess with eager stares. Luna being whom she was softly cleared her throat before speaking. “They are Celestia’s and our parents. They took Lunar in after the raid upon the village in which he lived. But if thou recalls them then dose that mean....” Tom nodded. “Yes Luna, my memory has been restored along with my powers. You will no longer have to worry about me passing out after using so much of it.” It was then that the humans hands lit up in a purple-ish haze and the sun slowly sank into the horizon. Luna’s horn glowed and the moon again began to slowly make its way across the sky. “Brave friends, would thou excuse us, we would like to speak with Sir Lunar in private.” The six friends nodded there heads before departing to their own. Once the last of them were out of sight, the night princess threw herself upon the human and embraced his, hiding her face into his chest. “Dear Luna, what has gotten into you all of a sudden?” He embraced her and held the dark alicorn close. She said nothing at first but just relished into the warmth he provided. She then looked up to him. “For sometime we have been unsure that thou would ever truly be our truest friend. When we saw thee fall that day so long ago we were certain that thou would be gone forever and we would never see thee again.” “Oh little sister, you know that can never be true. Nothing is ever gone forever so long as they live here.” He pointed to her heart. “But yet I am here now before you. I know you may have doubted if I would ever truly be whom I was...” “But we should not have, T’was not right of us to think...” Tom placed a finger to her muzzle to silence her. “It may not have been but it was and I do not fault you because of your feelings. I am here Luna, Like I told your sister, I don’t intend on going anywhere anytime soon so get used to it.” > The End of all Things > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Every pony was on edge that night, they knew what was waiting for them once they left the safety of the trees. But even through all of this, they all managed to get some sleep, all that is except one. Tom walked through the camp slowly and almost like a ghost. Any guard whom spotted him would bow and that would be the end of it. He walked through the thick trees of the forest, feeling a certain peace wash over him as the light of the moon shone through the branches and leaves. It took him a little while before he emerged and looked out over the horizon. There sitting on the side of the mountain, covered in fire light was Grypus, the gryphon’s capital city. His eyes trailed down the mountain and there before him were hundreds of camp fires. “So, tomorrow it begins. Good, I hate long waits.” He watched closely as sentries walked the outside of their camp. All he wanted to do was go down there and slaughter the lot of them but were he to do so then the gryphons would know that they were there, if they did not know already. “Star?” Tom drew his sword and spun around fast, the tip of his sword pointed right at a startled Twilight. “Twilight? Stars light you should not sneak up on me like that.” He quickly sheaths his sword and turned back around looking down to the gryphon’s camp. Twilight still a little startled from having a blade pointed at her slowly walked up beside him. “There are so many of them, do you think we can win this?” She looked up to the human. “We have to Twilight, there is no other way to save Celestia and free Equestria from this threat. If we fail here then not only Equestria will fall.” The lavender mare looked up to her human friend before looking back out over the land. “Star I have something to say. I want to say it now before I don’t have this chance anymore.” Tom looked to his friend, he could tell that there was something that she had to get off her chest and whatever it was must have been there for sometime. “Speak Twilight.” “Well... I...” The unicorn mare took a deep breath before continuing again. “Ever since I had found you in the Everfree Forest, I was curious about how you came to be there. So I looked through the many books that I could get my hooves on on humans. But... after a while I really wasn’t interested in your kind as a whole, I was more interested in you personally. I don’t really know how to explain it but the more time I spent around you the more I felt myself being drawn to you... what I mean is... Oh... I’m no good at these things. What I mean to say is that... I... I... I love you.” “Twilight....” “I know, I know I shouldn’t be feeling these type of emotions. Even after we found out who you were and that you and the Princess used to be and still are and item. But I just couldn’t stop myself, I still can’t in fact. I don’t care who you were, I care about who you are. I...I’m sorry I should just go back to my tent.” She turned to leave before feeling a hand upon her shoulder which stopped her. “Twilight please...” He knelt down and looked into her indigo eyes as she turned to face him. “Your feelings for me are your’s and your’s alone, no one can change them nor be mad at you for how you feel so you should not feel you need to apologize for it. You have been a great friend to me Twilight and that is something that can never be forgotten. I understand your feelings for me and I would be lying to myself if I said I didn’t feel the same, but I love Celestia more. We may not ever be as close as Celestia and I but surely we can be as siblings.” Though it was not what she had expected, Twilight nodded her head before embracing her friend in a warm hug. Tom held the unicorn close to himself. It was true, he did care deeply for her. But no matter how much they cared for each other, his love for the sun princess was something that could not be explained. As they both let go, Tom looked over his shoulder to the encampment in the valley below. “Tomorrow there will be great sorrow, tomorrow the ground will be stained red with the blood of the fallen. I wish it were different but it can not be avoided.” The two friends walked back through the trees to their camp, bidding each other good night, Tom returned to Luna’s tent and looked upon the sleeping princess. Blood or not, they were indeed brother and sister, both ponies of the moon and stars. He walked over and sat into the chair that was brought for him. He could not help but think about what lay beyond tomorrow. Were they to win then he would finally be reunited with the love of his life. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The soft breeze of summer wisped through the human’s long flowing silver hair. His indigo eyes looking out across the land. The safety of the trees behind them, the Equestrian army stood ready to act. Two gryphons flying a white flag walked into the space between the two armies. Tom looked to Luna and Twilight. “Looks like they want to talk first.” The two of them nodded and soon follow the human down the hillside and into the valley below. It did not take them long to reach where the two gryphons stood. “Princess Luna, we have been sent by our lord’s wishes to seek terms.” “And just what terms are these? Why couldn’t your king come himself.” The one gryphon glared at Tom as he spoke. “We have no reason to talk to you scum. This is between the king and Princess Luna.” Luna shook her head upon the gryphon’s reply. “Nay it t’is not just us that you have to talk with. This is Lunar Star, Celestia’s betrothed and our champion. He has just as much right to speak as we do.” Looking upon the human once more, this time with more of a nervous look upon him. “King Greaves will pardon you and your champion for act against us if you leave this field of battle now. He will spare your sister if you pledge to submit to his rule and come whenever he calls.” Tom’s anger rose as a silence dropped over the group. Before the princess of the night had time to react, Tom drew his sword and in a flash, swung it over the gryphon’s neck, nearly severing his head. The other looked on in horror as blood spurts from the gapping wound and all over the human. The beast clutches his neck in an attempt to stop the blood but he falls to the ground and sufficates. Looking to the other gryphon that came with him, the human points to the one upon the ground. “That is Equestria’s answer to your kings demands. Equestria will never submit to an outside ruler, not now not ever.” Twilight was shaking in fear of what had just happened. She had never seen her friend this enraged, none of them had. He just slit that gryphon’s throat as if it were nothing to him. The other gryphon already gone and the human looked down to the dead beast. “That could have gone better.” Tom shook his head. “No it couldn’t. Greaves will kill us all without a second thought. All he wants is control, nothing else. We stop this here or die trying.” A fire burned in the young human’s heart. After all the weeks of fighting, all the blood that he had endured. This would all end today and he wanted it to be so. A roar echos across the valley, making everypony look out to the horizon. “Well it looks like Greaves got thy message. Seems time is short. If we are to act it must be now.” Tom nodded. and stood before their army with Luna and Twilight by his side. “My friends Today we fight an enemy bent on our surrender. But just moments ago we had sent him a message that we will never submit to those who oppress others. So now he sends the full weight of his army against us in hopes that we will flee back to our homes. Well I say to them, let them come for I would rather die fighting for those I care for then running like a coward. You all saw the devastation of Dappleshore. That is the fate that awaits us if we fail today. For it is we, not they that shall win this day. For freedom, For Equestria!” The crowd roars to life and before the opposing forces could get any closer, The army of Equestria came rushing down the hill to meet them. A line of Unicorns stayed behind upon the hill with Twilight. “Horns up, magic ready!” All did as were instructed,each horn glowing with a magic orb upon its end. “Fire into their ranks and release!” Bolts of pure magic were fired from their horns, arching into the air before coming down upon the gryphon army like cannon balls. The blobs of magic impact the ground around the gryphon forces, sending many of them into the air or slamming into others. It was not long till the two armies collided in a fury of crashing armor. Luna had remaind up on the hill to survey the field. It was choice not of her own but of Tom’s. He did not want to risk losing her the way he did her sister and insisted that she remain behind to instruct their fire teams along with Twilight. Rarity had remained behind also with Fluttershy to care for any of the wounded that the battle was sure to give. She was not partial to getting dirty but given the situation she had placed her own thoughts in the back of her mind. Applejack, Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash had been right alongside their human friend as the bulk of their forces ran smack into the wall of gryphons before them. However they soon lost sight of their friend and began to look for him amidst the carnage. “Ah don’t see’em?” “Me either.” “Oo ooh I see him. He’s over there fighting a big gryphon.” The pink pony had pointed out while bouncing on the heads of a few gryphons with a pogo stick. Indeed he was. Tom had come face to face with one of the armies field generals. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “So your the human that has been giving my lord such a tough time.” The human was nicked up but it was one a small thing. His hand gripped his sword tight as he stared down the larger gryphon. “You lord has started a war that never should have taken place. This world was peaceful, a paradise to me. Your king will pay for his crimes with his life. I will see to that personally.” “Bold words spoken from one who’s own sp...” The gryphon didn’t even have time to react before the human was upon him. A fire burned in his eyes as well as his heart. With a swift swing of his sword he cut the gryphon’s head clean off only to land behind him as the body fell to the ground. Blood gushed forth, coating the once green grass in a sicking red. Looking up to the crags before him he saw standing there, Greaves. His blood began to boil at the meer sight of the one whom brought all this death upon them. But something made his heart stop. Greaves knew he was looking at him and just to spur the human on, he held up a white limp form. The features of his captive were unmistakeable. “Celestia. Celestia!!” All at once something sparked within the humans body. His sword dropped from his hand and soon he was set upon by dozens of gryphons. “Sir Lunar!?” Shining Armor had fought his way to the human in order to watch his back but now he could not see him among the clawing and biting pile. Light erupts from the cracks in the pile of bodies before they we all sent into the air with a blinding flash. A magic barrier surrounds the human as he slowly rose to his feet. His eyes glowed with an unworldly white. His long silvery hair flowed behind him as if caught in a gentle breeze. Upon his body he now wore a silvery looking armor, trimmed in gold and deep blue. On the chest plate and cape that it was attached too, bore the mark of a crescent moon and a single star. His gloved hand flexed and his sword immediately flew into it. Ponies and gryphons alike stood in awe at the amount of power that the human was giving off. Elsewhere both Luna and Twilight had seen the flash from their vantage point. “Princess what is that and why do I feel a massive amount of magic?” Luna’s eyes were glued to the human’s distant figure. “That Twilight Sparkle is sir Lunar’s true power. Unlike thy sister and ourself, Lunar was never so reserved with his magic. Many a times Tia and I asked that he be so but t’was like speaking to a wall. He is a force not to be contained it would seem." ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom slowly walked through the fighting all around him. One gryphon not really caring about whom it was that he was fighting swung his sword in a vertical motion. The human stepped to the side as the blade narrowly misses him. Tom then thrusts his sword forward into the gryphon’s chest before vaulting him over his side and off his blade. Two more gryphons come at the human, hoping that outnumbering him would work to their favor, but they had not idea the power that stood before them. Both attack with swords swinging at a fast pace. Tom dodged every swing with ease, though they were forcing him back with each swing the human was just waiting for an opening and he found it when one of the two brought his sword up to swing down. The human gripped the gryphon’s talon stopping his swing before headbutting him, the gryphon recoiled but did not realize that his sword was take from him till it was thrust into his chest. The other drops his sword and takes to the air thinking he would have the advantage since the human couldn’t fly. He was wrong. Tom withdrew the sword from the dead gryphon’s chest and threw it after the one whom took flight. The sword connects and the gryphon drops out of the sky, the sword sticking out of its back. The human then turns and continues his approach towards Greave upon the craggy outcrop. Many other gryphons came to attack the human in hopes of stopping him from reaching their king. All fell before his blade until there was nothing but a trail of death in his wake. It did not take him long however before he was only several yards away from where the King stood. “You can go no further human.” A large gryphon swooped down and landed before him. “Lord Greaves wants me test your skills before your fight.” “Remove yourself from my path or I will remove you.” The gryphon chuckled and shook his head. “Sorry but I can’t do that. However I will give you a deal. If you can land a single hit...” The last thing the gryphon saw was a fist connect with his beaked face. The beast recoiled and nearly fell over holding his face and groans in pain. “Now will you remove yourself from my path?” Tom looked down to the gryphon with eyes of white. The gryphon rose to his feet and shook off the daze. “So you think your some kind of smart pony eh? Well I think we can...” Again a fist connects with the gryphon’s face sending him reeling. Tom just walked past the now bloody gryphon as if he wasn’t there. He ascended the craggy bluff till he stood on the plateau that over looked the battlefield. “So you’re Lunar, we finally meet.” The gryphon turns only to reveal the lifeless body of the sun princess behind him. Tom looked to Celestia then to the gryphon who was toying with a ring on his talon. “The ring of Neria. Such a tiny thing, oh forgive me you were looking at her. Such power she had, such fire. I guess now though that they are distant memories aren’t they?” Again looking back to the gryphon he raised his sword and pointed it to the gryphon. “Oh so you mean to slay me do you? Well I suppose you have the right to do so after all I AM the one responsible for all this. So come at me human.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The two titans stared each other down as the fighting continued below them. They stood like statues before Greave made a slight move of his back paw, Tom caught it and rushed forward towards him. A grin donned the king’s face as Tom thrusts his sword forward ready to plunge it within his chest but the gryphon dodged it and came around to stand behind him only to kick him in the back, sending the human sliding across the ground. Tom slowly rose to his feet and turned to face the gryphon king. “Oh perhaps I should have mentioned. With this ring, I have all of the princess’s powers as well as her immortality So any advantage you thought you had over me, lets just say that it’s not there anymore. Tom again charged towards the gryphon king only to have him narrowly miss. “Give it up human, you have lost. Your pathetic attempts to save Equestria have been for nothing. My army will end everything here and Equestria will be mine for the taking.” “No, even if I fall here as long as Luna lives, we will always resist you.” Greaves began to laugh at the humans words. “You truly think you can win this? Well then I guess it’s time to stop fooling around now isn’t it?” Holding out his claw, a sword appears within it. The human watched Greaves closely before the beast charged him, sword held behind him. Tom brought his sword up before him, blocking the strike that would have ended him. Tom grit his teeth at the sheer force the gryphon was using. “You have lost boy. Give it up and I may let you live.” “Never.” Tom pushed forward, pushing the king back before throwing his fist into the gryphon’s face. Greaves staggered back holding his face and groans. “So you still have some fight in you do you? Very well let’s see how you handle this?” Sheathing his sword into the ground he stood up on his hind legs and his talons began to glow in a pale yellow. The ground began to rumble and shake. Rocks roll off the mountainside from being jarred loose, connecting to any who were in there path. Once Greaves raised his claws, two massive boulders errupt from the ground and float on either side of him. Grinning evilly he throws the two boulders at the human. Tom had to move fast before he was crushed. He sheathed his sword and launched himself into the air and floated there, his transparent wings lightly flapping. But he did not have time to breath before Greaves was upon him. Tom quickly drew his sword and blocked a particularly devastating strike which sent him flipping through the air. Once he righted himself Greaves was again before him, ready to swing again before the human reacted faster. He flipped over the gryphon’s swing and landed upon his back and grabbed both his wings. “You say you are immortal well let’s just test that shall we?” By grabbing the gryphon’s wings it stopped him from staying aloft and plummeted to the ground. Tom groans deeply as he pulled the gryphon’s wings to which greaves roars in pain when his bones dislocate and break before hitting the ground with force enough to leave a shallow crater. Tom flipped off his back and stood on the rim of the crater before turning to the body of Celestia. He began to make his way towards her as Greaves groans and rose to his feet. “So you have some tricks. But I’m not done with you yet. Hey! are you listening to me?!” Tom ignored the gryphon’s call and continued to walk towards the body of his beloved. Greaves then then drew a dagger from his side as Luna landed just yards from them. She was not sure what was going on and came to help Tom out if he needed it. “You will listen to me when I am speaking to you HUMAN!” Greaves jumped from the crater and lunged for the human. “LUNAR!” > Awakening > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Lunar!” Luna shouted before Tom quickly drew his sword, his back to Greaves and thrusts his sword deep into the gryphon’s chest. Greaves gaged at the sudden impact and dropped the dagger that was meant for the human. Silence fell between the two. It was soon broken as Greaves coughed up blood. “How? How can this be? The ring of Neria, it took everything from her. I had her powers, her immortality, yet still I was beaten.” Tom grit his teeth and jerked his sword, making the gryphon groan in pain that was now shooting through his body. “You stole her powers. Powers that will never and could never be yours. You used them to fuel your own ends. No matter how strong you claim to have been you could never have truly beaten me. So long as I or Luna draw breath you would never have won and now... you never will. ” Tom then twists his sword, creating a larger wound before pulling his sword from the gryphon’s chest and took a step towards the body of Celestia. Greaves fell to the ground as blood pours from the gapping hole in his chest, the enemy of all the ponies of Equestria lay dead upon the cold ground. Tom took several steps towards Celestia and dropped his sword. He continued his slow approach till he dropped to his knees beside her. Tears streaming down his face as he gently took the body of his fallen lover into his arms. He cradled her and held her head against his chest. “I’m so sorry Celestia. Please forgive me, I should have fought harder. I should have been faster.” He buries his face into her neck and silently cries. Luna, Twilight and the rest look on as they too were tearing up and crying. Then the human remember something, something he had not thought of before. He lifts the mare’s face to him and looks to her then to the sky. “Creators, guide my words.” He look back to the Alicorn mare. “I am the lord of the stars, it is my duty to protect those who can not protect themselves, be they royalty or not. Thus by the great power that is given to me by the stars in the heavens I give back that which was taken from you.” Luna, overhearing his words knew what he was attempting. “Lunar no!” But it was too late for as their lips touched, the spell was cast and the two began to glow. Their bodies floated into the air as the spell took hold. “Princess Luna, What’s going on?” Luna looked on, watching as both her sister and best frined float within the air. A stream of light moving from the human‘s body into that of the withe mare. “It is known as a sacrifice. A spell from old times. It is a transfer of energy from one being to the other.” “Sacrifice? You don’t mean?” Luna nodded. “We do Twilight Sparkle, Lunar is giving our sister his life force. He will die so that she may live.” The two then slowly lower to the ground, the spell was complete. Both bodies lay motionless until suddenly, Celestia stirs and slowly raises to her hooves. Luna as well as the other race over to her. “Tia. Dear sister are thou alright?” Celestia moaned softly in slight discomfort as she looked to Luna and seeing the others. “Luna? What happened? Last thing I remember was a blinding flash then everything went black.Where is Lunar?” “Well you see sister, Lord Greaves drained all of your magic and life force with the Ring of Neria. Lunar slew Greaves and well...” She looked behind her sister which made Celestia turn her head. There laying behind her was Lunar. Once she had seen that he was not moving, tears began to well up in her eyes. “By the sunlight no. Luna tell me he didn’t.” Luna nodded her head. “We are sorry sister.” “Why didn’t you stop him?!” Celestia shouted and looked to her sister with a mix of anger and sadness in her face as tears began their journey from her eyes and down her cheeks. Luna took a deep breath. “By the time we had realized what it was that he intended to do it was too late.” This time it was Celestia’s turn to weep over the body of her fallen lover. “No Lunar please. You promised me that you would always be with me. Please Lunar don’t leave me again, don’t go where I can’t follow... please.” As the princess wept, two balls of light slowly drift down from the sky, upon touching the ground, the orbs morphed and took the shape of two regal Alicorns. The first was a white female with a fiery mane and tail. Her crimson irises bore into any she saw. The second was a larger dark blue male Alicorn. His mane was of silver and billowed like that of the evening mist. His eyes were a lighter shade of blue. Upon their heads were their horns but unlike Celestia and Luna, they were encircled by six smaller horns, almost making it seem like they wore crowns. Luna‘s eyes grew in size. “Mother, Father!” Celestia did not even notice her parents arrival as they slowly walked over to their grieving daughter. The sun princess continued to sob even when her mother and father tried their best to comfort her. The gentle voice of her mother spoke into her ear. “Please dearest daughter we know that your heart is aching from the loss of your beloved. But you must not give up hope just yet.” “You’re mother is correct. We have watched the exploits of this being from our place among the stars and we believe his sacrifice has earned him another chance at life.” Again Celestia’s mother nuzzled her eldest daughter. “So please my little sunshine, stop your crying. Your father and I will take it from here.” The stallion looked over his shoulder to the smaller Alicorn. “Luna dear come comfort your sister while your mother and I take care of this.” Luna nodded as she moved up to her sister and nuzzled her. Tia was still shedding tears and sobbing softly. “Please big sister thou must stop or thou will make thyself sick.” The two Alicorns nodded to one another and with their combined magic, lifted Tom’s body into the air. Following suit they floated on either side, flapping their wings. As their magic began its work, the armor Tom wore fell to the ground piece by piece till his naked body floated in a ball of magic. It then started to contort and mold his form. His legs twist and bend, forming hind legs. His arms and torso grow in muscle and become broad. His hands and feet turn into hooves. A pair of elegant wings burst from his sides and a horn breaks through his skull as that too changes and morphs. His hair grows long, becoming a silvery mane and a tail sprouts from his rear. Upon his flanks is placed a crescent moon and a single star, his cutie mark. With all the changes complete, the now three Alicorn lower to the ground. Luna, Celestia and all the others watch in awe as their friend was changed forever. The two regal Alicorns soon stand side by side as the third lay upon the ground. But then, he slowly moves, Celestia and Luna let out soft gasps. Then the stallion rose to his hooves and groaned deeply. “Ugh my head.” “The pain is an unfortunate side effect to the transformation I am afraid. It will go away in time.” The dark blue Alicorn looked to his left and seen the two regal Alicorns. “I... know you, don’t I? Yes, your Solaris and Evening Star, Celestia and Luna’s mother and father.” The white mare took a step forward before she spoke. “That we are young Lunar. Long has it been since we have set hoof upon this world and just as long since last we saw you three. We watched the happening that took place upon this land and thought to act accordingly.” Tom looked over his shoulder to everypony who was standing there. Without thinking, Celestia stood up and charged at Lunar before diving at him and knocking him over. The princess softly wept into her lover’s coat. It was then that Tom realized he had changed. He was no longer a human anymore, but a pony, more to the point, an Alicorn. Tom looked up to the stallion and then the image flashed before his mind. He then put two and two together and realized that he had seen him before coming to Equestria. “It was you, you brought me here.” This made Celestia look to her father. Evening Star smiled and nodded his head. “You are correct Lunar, I was the one whom brought you. It was a decision my wife and I concluded on when we foresaw the outcome of this war were you not to be here.” “We did not wish our daughters death nor their enslavement to a creature such as King Greaves. So my husband spoke with another to find you.” Tom, now Lunar nodded. “Another? What do you mean?” The two Alicorns looked to each other before another spoke up. “I can speak for myself.” The two regal Alicorns looked behind them and smiled as another stepped up. Tom looked upon the face of the mare he had spoken to all those nights ago. “Evening Star came to me to ask where you had gone. I was hesitant at first but knowing them they would not resort to such measure unless they had reason and I also wanted to look upon your face once more my son.” “I suppose I should be mad but...” He looked to Celestia. “You gave me back the one thing I needed most in my life.” He then looked up to the three. “So I guess it’s a fair trade off.” Both Alicorns smile and Gaia nuzzled Lunar’s cheek as Evening Star spoke. “Now that the land is safe once more we must depart. Take care of our daughters Lunar for we will be watching and expecting great things from you.” The two Alicorns form balls of light and rocket back into the heavens. “I too will be keeping an eye on you my beloved son. Make your father proud.” She nuzzled him once more before turning and walking off, only to fade into nothingness. Seeing their king dead, many of the gryphons dropped their weapons, others took flight in order to escape the princesses wrath. Everypony else remained frozen to the events that had just happened. When the shock finally wore off all that was heard was loud cheering, The war was over and they had won. Equestria was safe once more. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Months had passed since that time. Homes were rebuilt and treaties were made anew. So much work had taken place that during it all no one had noticed the change in their princess’s appearance. Some thought she might have gained weight with all that she was eating. But during the times when she rose the sun, she would ask Lunar for help because she would become ill. Having lived among humans, Lunar knew what that could only signify. Celestia was pregnant. One evening while the two were within Celestia’s bedchambers, Lunar confronted her. “Tia? I have been noticing that you have been sick in the mornings as of late. At first I thought you might have come down with something seeing as we have been running ragged with all the reconstruction projects and what not. But the more I think on it the more I come to realize, you are with a foal... aren’t you?” The princess of the sun smiled and nodded her head. “Indeed I am Lunar. I had started to notice things while I was captive. It seemed as though my thoughts on your magic changing your genetic structure to match our own was correct.” “So... that night, after the gala... you became pregnant? Because of me?” The stallion shook slightly. In all his years he had wanted a family of his own but while he was human it was not something he was able to get. Now however everything he had longed for seemed to fall into place. “If this is some kind of dream, I wish never to wake from it.” Celestia nuzzled under his chin. “I assure you my love this is no dream. You are here with me, as you should be and in time we shall have a little one of our own.” > The Big Day > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “I can’t believe this is happening?” Lunar chuckled deeply. “What’s not to believe? That I am marrying Tia or that I chose you to be my best mare?” Lunar stood wearing his knightly attire which consisted of a red vestment, gold silk shoulder guards and star laidend sash that cut across his chest. Starlight looked up to the stallion. “Both really. I mean it was not something that I expected.” Lunar chuckled softly and looked to the earth pony before he spoke. “You are my best friend Starlight, next to Tia and Luna. When I knew the wedding was approaching I had only one pony in mind to ask, you.” The two of them stood at the alter, Luna stood beside them because it was by Celestia’s request that she preside over the ceremony. Across from them stood Twilight and her friends, all dressed in their finest attire. Even though the stallion had been awaiting this moment, Luna could see that he was nervous. “Be at peace dear brother. We know thou is nervous but thou should not be. T’is a wonderful thing that will take place here this day.” Luna then nuzzled into the stallion’s neck to which he returned it with one of his own. “I know Luna. Believe me I had been dreaming of this day for a very long time, even when I was among humans. But the fact that it is happening still makes me wonder if this is a dream.” Luna smiled to her soon to be brother. “T’is no dream Lunar.” The stallion nodded as the music changed and the doors to the hall opened. Three filles, Applebloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle bounced along and dropping flowers as they went. After they came down the aisle, everypony waited until Celestia turned the corner and started to make her way up the aisle. She was in a pure white gown which covered her flank, around her midsection was also in white but seemingly stitched into the fabric were roses. Lunar knew just whom to thank for this. Upon the princess’s head she wore a silk veil circled with roses. Lunar was awestruck. He could not begin to put into words just how beautiful she looked, even with a swollen belly. She slowly made her way till she was standing beside him and smiled. Luna looked between the two and nodded her head. “Fillies and Gentlecolts. We are gathered here today to witness the union of two ponies whom care for each other deeply. They have faced many dangers together and fought against death itself. We are proud to be the one to preside over this ceremony.” Both Celestia and Lunar turned to face one another before Luna spoke again. “Dearest sister dos’t thou take this stallion to be thy husband through good times and bad? Through all the years of thy life even until the next?” Celestia nodded. “I do.” “Lunar dos’t thou take thy sister to be thy wife through good times and bad? Through all the years of thy life even until the next?” Lunar nodded. “I do.” “The rings please.” Using her magic to carry the rings, Twilight walked up the shallow incline. Luna then took them from her using her own magic and slowly slide one onto their horns. “Then by the power vested upon us as the princess of Equestria. We now pronounce thee mare and stallion, King and Queen. Thou may kiss thy bride.” Lunar wasted no time in doing so. He quickly pressed his lips to those of his wife and queen as the crowd of ponies that lined the hall cheered. Tia and Lunar walked side by side down the aisle till they exited the hall and those outside cheered. Using her magic, Celestia tossed her bouquet of roses into the crowd and they both watched as fillies tried frantically to catch it. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Night had fallen and the reception after the wedding started to kick off. The crowd parted as both Lunar and Celestia made their way to the center of the dance floor. Both smiled to the other. “Our first dance as husband and wife.” Celestia moved forward and placed a gentle kiss upon the stallion’s lips then broke it only to look into his deep purple eyes. “It will not be our last.” The two took their cue from the music and began their dance of love. Their steps and body language just shouted of how much they cared for each other. Celestia leaned her head against her husband as they danced. “Oh Lunar, I could not be happier.” Lunar chuckled softly. “Nor I my dearest. Nor I.” The song lasted a while before a pink pony hopped up on stage and shouted. “Let’s get this party started!!” The tempo and soon the atmosphere of the room changed and every pony started to dance. Lunar and Celestia had also joined in on the fun. Haze and Misty stood off to one side just watching the room before Haze took Misty by her hoof and dragged her on to the dance floor. Luna stood alone before a field of magic surrounded her and brought her into the center of the room where Lunar and Celestia stood. “I could not have done this without you little sister. If you did not push me to be better then what I was I shudder to think what might have happened.” “Big brother you know this as well as Tia and we do. You are whom you are. Even if we had done nothing, you would have fought just as hard regardless so please you need not thank us. Besides, we...” She was silenced when he wrapped her with his wing and held her close. The heat from his body warming her to her core. Celestia smiled deeply and stared at her sister and her new husband. “Care for a picture your majesties?” “Hmm? Oh yes, by all means.” The young mare stood before the three of them and looked into her view finder before taking the shot. It was moment forever cemented in time and would remain so for as long as they remembered it. > Seven Years > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “And that my little ponies is how it all happened.” “Aww come on dad didn’t you ever go back to Earth and see your other family?” The dark blue Alicorn tapped his chin with his hoof. “Hmm well yes I did but that is a story for another time.” Both little Alicorns grumbled at their father’s reply. “Alright you two, it’s time for bed. Your aunt Luna is waiting to read you a bedtime story so hop to it.” There standing in the doorway was Celestia. “First say goodnight to your father.” First to hug the stallion was the white filly, next was the white colt. “Night daddy.” “Yeah night dad.” They both ran from the room and down the hall. “Still telling them that old story?” Lunar chuckled. “They wanted to know about their father so why not?” “You did make sure to leave out the more graphical parts correct?” Lunar scoffed. “Of course, our kids are still too young to know about those sort of things.” The now Queen of Equestria walked over and nuzzled her husband. “It’s been seven years Lunar since that day. I still can not believe that you would have willing given your life for me and Silver.” The stallion smiled. “What’s not to know? I love you with all my heart my lovely wife. Nothing can or will ever change that. Though I do have one question.” Celestia nodded. “Ask.” Lunar took a deep breath. “Well first off I would like to apologize for the way my earthly family reacted to us...” The white Alicorn put her hoof to his muzzle and shook her head. “Enough Lunar, you have apologized for this already.” “I know but still. I had a feeling they would act that way but still I asked you to accompany me. Anyway, all those years ago did you ever see us ending the way we are?” Celestia was silent for a moment before she spoke. “Not at first no. You and Luna were always playing pranks on me and I on you. I saw you as a younger brother at that time but before the day you fell into the forest I started to see you as more then just the colt my parents took in. I saw that you were always pushing the boundaries of what you could do and I admired that about you.” Lunar smiled as he seen his wife nuzzled under his chin. Celestia then walked through their bed room and out to the balcony, looking up into the night sky. Lunar soon joined her by her side, to which she leaned against his side. Lunar opened his one wing and draped it over his wife. Together they stood and marveled at the night Luna had made just for them....on the eve of their anniversary. A/N I thank all of you whom read this story. It is the fist story I have ever truly finished. I hope you all enjoyed reading it as I did writing it. Keep on the look out for more to come. Once again thank you to all whom read A hero's rebirth. Lunar